The Walton Family Foundation announced Monday a new collaborative effort to support the development and prosperity of people and communities in the Delta regions of Arkansas and Mississippi.
According to a press release, the initiative will focus on three areas, education and youth engagement, economic asset building for individuals and families and high impact coalition building.
The foundation has a track record of working with communities in Phillips County, Arkansas and Coahoma County, Mississippi, and is expanding its efforts to Jefferson County, Arkansas.
The news release reported that the foundation will “help lay the groundwork for a new generation of success by investing in the education workforce, unlocking college and career pathways and improving access to educational options.”
It went on to say that the Foundation will look for ways to provide residents with resources needed to build financial security through economic asset building and boost upward mobility by offering workforce development and career training to strengthen small businesses.
Lastly, the foundation will build coalitions of local , regional and national partners to develop the next generation of community leaders and achieve greater equity and opportunity in the area.
“Every community is different and so are the challenges they face – which is why following local leadership and vision is critical,” Annie Proietti, Walton Family Foundation board chair said. “We recognize that building a vibrant, equitable Delta won’t happen by going it alone. Realizing this vision means joining with partners and supporting one another toward shared goals.”
