SELMA, AL (April 20, 2026) – The Black Belt Community Foundation (BBCF) is proud to announce the impact of its 2026 combined Arts & Community Grant cycle, investing $358,883.81 across the 12 counties it serves in Alabama’s Black Belt region.

Community-based organizations from Bullock, Choctaw, Dallas, Greene, Hale, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Perry, Pickens, Sumter, and Wilcox Counties applied for funding when the grant cycle opened in January. This year, BBCF will award 150 grants to 142 organizations supporting transformative, community-driven work that strengthens communities and expands opportunities for Black Belt residents.

The 2026 funding includes:

• $265,443.81 distributed through 125 Community Grants
• $73,440 awarded through 23 Arts Grants
• $20,000 awarded through 2 Festival Grants

Eight organizations received both Arts and Community funding, highlighting the cross-sector impact of local leaders working to meet diverse community needs.

The spirit of community investment was on full display on April 18, 2026, as BBCF hosted its annual Arts and Community Grants Ceremony at the Selma Convention Center, bringing together nonprofit leaders, community stakeholders, and supporters to celebrate this year’s grantees.

“These grants represent the power of communities investing in themselves,” said Chris Spencer, President & CEO of the Black Belt Community Foundation. “Across the Black Belt, local organizations are leading meaningful work that uplifts families, preserves culture, creates opportunity, and responds directly to community needs. BBCF is proud to support that work and continue building a stronger future for our region together.”

Fueling Community-Driven Impact

More than an investment, these grants are supporting initiatives that address critical needs while celebrating the culture and resilience of the region. Funded projects span a wide range of focus areas, including youth development, education, senior services, arts and cultural preservation, health and wellness, and community innovation.

Across the Black Belt, organizations are already turning these resources into meaningful impact:

• Youth leadership and empowerment through programs like She Shines: Girls Leadership Development Program
• Senior wellness and engagement through initiatives like the Akron Senior & Community Wellness Center
• Arts and cultural programming that preserves the region’s heritage while expanding access to creative expression
• Education and enrichment efforts supporting tutoring, mentoring, and college readiness
• Community outreach and basic needs services addressing food security, health education, and family support

These investments reflect BBCF’s continued commitment to trust-based philanthropy, a model that places decision-making power in the hands of local leaders. Through its Community Associates network and local grant committees in each county, funding decisions are guided by those closest to the challenges and solutions within their communities.

Rooted in Community, Driven by Impact

From grassroots nonprofits to established community organizations, BBCF grantees represent the heart of the Black Belt by creating opportunities, strengthening connections, and building a more vibrant future for the region.

As BBCF continues its mission, the foundation remains focused on listening deeply, investing intentionally, and supporting the people and programs creating lasting change across the Black Belt.

A complete list of the 2026 grant recipients is available at: blackbeltfound.org/2026grants