As Bridge Builders Community Foundations (BBCF) prepares to celebrate its 50th Anniversary in 2025, they reflect on a remarkable year of growth, generosity and impact in 2024. Since its founding in 1975, BBCF has been a steadfast partner in fostering philanthropy and strengthening the fabric of the community.
Over the past five decades, BBCF has been dedicated to connecting donors with causes that matter, supporting initiatives that enrich lives and empowering organizations to build a brighter future. By cultivating a spirit of giving, the foundation has become a vital force in creating opportunities for everyone in their community to live, learn, work and play.
This past year, BBCF made significant strides in fulfilling its mission:
• $1.5 Million in Grants: Supporting local nonprofits and initiatives that address critical needs and promote community well-being.
• $400,000 in Scholarships: Awarded to 121 learners, helping pave the way for academic achievement and career success.
• $1.9 Million in Donations: Generously contributed by donors of all sizes, demonstrating the collective power of giving.
• 22 New Funds Created: Established by generous donors and groups who care deeply about the community, these funds will provide lasting benefits for years to come. One such fund is the Coach Patterson Charitable Foundation. This fund, established in memory of the esteemed educator, coach and community leader, honors a lifetime dedicated to youth development and athletic excellence. This fund seeks to honor, emulate and extend Coach Patterson’s enduring legacy by fostering individual growth and enhancing team performance through student outreach efforts. By instilling determination, mentoring achievement and recognizing excellence, the fund supports initiatives that reflect Coach Patterson’s commitment to building character.
BBCF also hosted an Executive Directors’ Roundtable for nonprofit leaders, fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing and innovation in the nonprofit sector. This initiative underscores their commitment to building capacity and ensuring local organizations thrive in their missions.
In addition, BBCF was honored to participate in the Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) READY Community Foundations program. This initiative, part of ARC’s READY Appalachia capacity-building effort, selected 30 community foundations across 10 Appalachian states to receive no-cost training and funding access. READY Community Foundations is designed to enhance local philanthropic organizations’ programming, operations, fundraising and financial impact — ensuring a stronger and more resilient future for the Appalachian region.
Behind these accomplishments is a committed group of board members, affiliate members and committees who work tirelessly to make the region a better place. Their leadership and dedication inspire BBCF’s ongoing efforts to amplify the impact of philanthropy and create lasting change.
As BBCF prepares to celebrate its golden anniversary, the organization reflects on the enduring strength and generosity of the community. BBCF is also excited to announce some impactful and exciting partnerships in 2025. These collaborations will further their mission and expand their ability to serve the community in innovative and meaningful ways. Details on these partnerships will be shared in the coming months.
The year ahead will be an opportunity to honor the past, celebrate the present and look to the future with renewed purpose. BBCF remains committed to building bridges that connect people, ideas and resources for the greater good.
For more information, please visit bbcf.org or call 814-677-8687.
