Foundation History
The Winstonville Community Foundation was founded in 2024 with a singular mission: to empower the residents of Winstonville, Mississippi, and the surrounding areas to build a stronger, more vibrant, and self-sustaining community. Rooted in a deep love for our hometown and a commitment to creating positive change, the foundation emerged out of the recognition that our region has been historically underserved in terms of economic opportunity, educational resources, and overall well-being.
As a small, rural community in Bolivar County, Winstonville has faced its share of challenges, from high unemployment rates to limited access to technology and healthcare. However, we’ve always believed that the strength of our people—our resilience, creativity, and sense of community—holds the key to a brighter future. The Winstonville Community Foundation was created to harness that strength and provide the support necessary to unlock the potential of every individual in our town.
Our founder, Joel Winston, recognized that local organizations and residents needed more than just temporary assistance—they needed a comprehensive, long-term plan to foster sustainable growth and opportunity. With a passion for nonprofit development and a clear vision for his hometown’s future, Joel formed the Winstonville Community Foundation to focus on three core areas: Economic Development, Education & Technology, and Community Well-being. These pillars reflect the foundation’s belief that community empowerment requires addressing the root causes of poverty and inequity in a holistic manner.
Our journey began with a commitment to action. From the outset, we sought to create programs that would make a tangible difference. One of our first initiatives is to establish a Technology Education & Training Center to provide local youth with access to the latest digital tools and training, helping them gain the skills necessary to succeed in the modern workforce. Additionally, we are launching programs to support small business development and economic empowerment, as well as services that will improve community health and well-being.
As a new community foundation, we understand the importance of collaboration. That’s why we are building strong partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and regional entities to maximize our impact. Though our work has just begun, the foundation is driven by a steadfast belief that by investing in our people, we can create lasting change for Winstonville and future generations.
The story of the Winstonville Community Foundation is one of hope, resilience, and vision. We are proud to be a part of the community’s efforts to shape its own future, and we are excited about the impact we will make together in the years to come.
Founding Board
- Cynthia Winston Azogini—–President
- Joel M. Winston—–Vice-President
- Ellen Diann Winston—–Secretary
- Carvetta Charlene Winston Brooks—–Treasurer
Planting Seeds for the Future
When we plant apple seeds, we expect an apple tree to grow. The seed and its roots determine what kind of tree will flourish in the soil.
In the same way, when we belong to God, we expect goodness and righteousness to grow in our lives. The fruit of our actions reveals the kind of seeds we have planted.
Join us as we sow seeds of faith, hope, and love—cultivating a future rooted in purpose and divine promise.
We are actively recruiting local citizens from Winstonville and surrounding areas to help formulate the initial Board of Directors for the Winstonville Community Foundation. Your leadership and passion can help shape the future of our community!
Winstonville Community Foundation
Planting the Seeds of Our Future!