For Immediate Release
Winstonville Community Foundation Receives 501(c)(3) Status, Announces Rollout of Three Community-Centered Programs
Winstonville, Mississippi – The Winstonville Community Foundation (WCF) is thrilled to announce its recent designation as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, marking a significant milestone in its mission to improve the quality of life for the residents of Winstonville and surrounding areas. With this federal tax-exempt status, WCF can now expand its outreach and strengthen community impact, creating new avenues for individuals, businesses, and organizations to contribute to meaningful local change. In addition, WCF is preparing to launch three foundational programs on September 1, 2025, aimed at addressing key community needs in Economic Empowerment, Education & Youth Development, and Community Well-being.
“This milestone marks a new chapter for the Winstonville Community Foundation,” said Joel Winston, Executive Director of WCF. “Achieving 501(c)(3) status opens up vital funding and partnership opportunities that will allow us to invest more deeply in the future of Winstonville. We’re committed to bringing impactful change to our community, and we’re excited to launch three core programs that reflect our mission.”
Upcoming Programs to Serve as Foundation for Lasting Change
WCF’s three community-based programs will address essential areas for growth and improvement, with each program designed to build a foundation for sustained development and empowerment.
1. Economic Empowerment Initiative
WCF’s Economic Empowerment program aims to promote financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and workforce development within Winstonville. This initiative will offer hands-on training in small business management, access to financial resources, and essential tools for economic self-sufficiency. Through partnerships with local financial institutions and business leaders, participants will have access to mentorship, micro-loans, and grant opportunities to help their businesses thrive. The program focuses on creating pathways to financial stability and growth, especially for historically underserved residents.
2. Technology Education & Youth Development Program
With a mission to bridge the digital divide, WCF’s Technology Education & Training Center will provide Winstonville youth with hands-on training in digital literacy, coding, web development, and other high-demand technology skills. The program is tailored for young people aged 14-24 and will emphasize both technical and soft skills that are crucial for today’s job market. By partnering with tech organizations, universities, and local schools, the center will create a dynamic learning environment where young residents can gain critical skills, access mentorship, and open doors to future career opportunities.
3. Community Well-being Initiative
The Community Well-being initiative focuses on enhancing the overall health, safety, and quality of life for Winstonville residents. Targeted toward low-income families, the elderly, and individuals experiencing food insecurity, this program will offer wellness checks, nutritional support, and access to healthcare resources. Plans include establishing a community garden, organizing mental health workshops, and collaborating with healthcare providers for seasonal health screenings. Through these efforts, the Community Well-being initiative will address basic health and social needs, fostering a resilient and connected community.
Call for Community Support
As the Winstonville Community Foundation prepares to implement these programs, community involvement is crucial to achieving sustainable success. WCF is actively seeking partnerships, volunteers, and donations to ensure these initiatives make the greatest possible impact. Individuals, businesses, and organizations interested in supporting WCF’s mission are encouraged to contact us directly to explore ways to get involved.
“We are ready to make a meaningful impact, but we can’t do it alone,” Winston added. “We invite everyone to join us on this journey to make Winstonville a healthier, more vibrant, and economically empowered community. Together, we can build a stronger future for all.”
For more information, or to support the Winstonville Community Foundation, please visit our website at https://www.winstonvillecf.org or contact us at 662-410-1750.
About Winstonville Community Foundation
The Winstonville Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for Winstonville and surrounding communities. By serving as a hub for philanthropic efforts, WCF enables individuals, businesses, and organizations to pool resources to address local needs, promote sustainable development, and create lasting positive change. Our core focus areas—Economic Empowerment, Education & Youth Development, and Community Well-being—drive our commitment to fostering a thriving and resilient community for future generations.