How Did Imprints Cares Secure a $350,000 Grant from SECU Foundation?

The State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) Foundation has awarded a significant grant of £350,000 to Imprints Cares to support the capital campaign for the Helen and Woody Clinard Center for Thriving Families. This funding is aimed at bolstering the early childhood education nonprofit's efforts to serve low-income families in North Carolina, enhancing child development and promoting academic readiness.

Last updated: 15 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• SECU Foundation granted £350,000 to Imprints Cares for their capital campaign.
• The campaign aims to fund the renovation and expansion of their new headquarters.
• Imprints Cares serves over 11,000 children annually, focusing on low-income households.
• The foundation has committed over £328 million to community projects since 2004.
• Scott Mollenkopf is the new executive director of Imprints Cares.

Overview of the SECU Foundation

The SECU Foundation is a charitable organisation under the 501(c)(3) designation, primarily funded through contributions from members of the State Employees’ Credit Union. Its mission is to promote community development across North Carolina, focusing on impactful projects in housing, education, healthcare, and human services. Since its establishment in 2004, the foundation has made a remarkable financial commitment of over £328 million towards various local initiatives.

Imprints Cares: A Lifeline for Families

Established in 1970, Imprints Cares is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to supporting low-income households through early childhood education and various family services. In 2024 alone, the organisation provided vital programmes that reached over 11,000 children, showcasing its significant impact on community welfare.

Imprints Cares employs a holistic, multi-generational approach to programming. This methodology focuses on enhancing child development and fostering academic readiness and provides essential support for families to help break the cycle of poverty. By offering services from before birth through middle school, the organisation addresses the needs of families at critical developmental stages.

The Helen and Woody Clinard Centre for Thriving Families

The recent grant from the SECU Foundation contributes to the capital campaign for the Helen and Woody Clinard Centre for Thriving Families, which aims to enhance the nonprofit's capabilities. Launched in September 2024, the campaign seeks to raise £5.5 million to facilitate the purchase and renovation of a new headquarters in Winston-Salem.

In July 2022, Imprints Cares purchased a 20,894-square-foot building at 711 Coliseum Plaza Court for £925,000 from Twin City Development Foundation. This location was strategically chosen due to its accessibility via two Winston-Salem Transit Authority bus lines, ensuring that families can easily reach the services provided.

Community Impact and Future Goals

According to Chris Ayers, the chair of the SECU Foundation, Imprints Cares has played an integral role within the Forsyth County community over the last 50 years. The foundation's support not only validates the organisation's efforts but also enhances its ability to deliver essential services to even more families in the future. The idea is to create a lasting impact that strengthens community bonds and supports children and families effectively.

Leadership Changes at Imprints Cares

Recently, Scott Mollenkopf was appointed as the new executive director of Imprints Cares, taking over from Claudia Barrett, who stepped down in December after six years in the role. Mollenkopf brings over 35 years of diverse experience in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, having previously served as the chief financial and operating officer for Covenant Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, which included a five-star child development centre.

His extensive experience positions him well to lead Imprints Cares into its next chapter, particularly as it embarks on its ambitious capital campaign. His leadership will be crucial in navigating the challenges and opportunities that come with expanding services for families and children.

Comprehensive Support for Families

Imprints Cares offers a wide array of supportive programming that caters to the needs of families. From home visitation services during pregnancy and infancy to after-school care, parenting programmes, and summer enrichment camps, the organisation is dedicated to enhancing the lives of children and their families. Additionally, it provides an inclusion programme that ensures all children have access to quality education and resources.

The organisation collaborates with various partners on its campus, including Salem Montessori School, Parenting Path, Developmental Therapy Associates, and Key Autism. This collaborative approach allows for a more comprehensive support system, addressing diverse needs within the community.

The Importance of Community Engagement

The financial support from the SECU Foundation is a testament to the importance of community engagement in addressing social issues. By investing in organisations like Imprints Cares, the foundation demonstrates its commitment to improving the quality of life for families in North Carolina. The success of such initiatives highlights the need for ongoing collaboration between local organisations, community members, and foundations to create sustainable solutions for poverty and education.

What Lies Ahead for Imprints Cares?

As Imprints Cares moves forward with its capital campaign, the organisation will focus on maximising the impact of the SECU Foundation's generous grant. This funding will facilitate the renovation of the new headquarters, allowing for expanded services and increased capacity to serve families in need.

The organisation's vision is to continue bridging gaps in health and education, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. By fostering strong community relationships and engaging stakeholders, Imprints Cares aims to create a lasting legacy that positively influences future generations.

FAQs

What is the SECU Foundation?

The SECU Foundation is a charitable organisation in North Carolina that provides funding for community development initiatives. Established by contributions from State Employees’ Credit Union members, its focus areas include housing, education, healthcare, and human services.

What services does Imprints Cares provide?

Imprints Cares offers a variety of programmes for families, including home visitation, early childhood education, before and after school care, summer enrichment camps, and parenting support, catering to children from birth through middle school.

What is the Helen and Woody Clinard Centre for Thriving Families?

The Helen and Woody Clinard Centre is Imprints Cares' new headquarters in Winston-Salem, aimed at providing expanded services to low-income families. The centre is part of a £5.5 million capital campaign for renovation and enhancement.

Who is Scott Mollenkopf?

Scott Mollenkopf is the newly appointed executive director of Imprints Cares, bringing over 35 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. He previously served as a chief financial and operating officer in various organisations.

How can the community support Imprints Cares?

The community can support Imprints Cares through donations, volunteering, and promoting awareness about the organisation's mission and services. Engaging with local initiatives can significantly impact families in need.

As Imprints Cares embarks on this new journey, the community's involvement will play a crucial role in shaping the future of its services. How can you contribute to the growth and success of such vital community initiatives? #CommunitySupport #ImprintsCares #SECUFoundation