The interconnected challenges of early childhood education, hunger, housing, healthcare, and workforce development are well-documented in the Cabarrus Health Alliance Community Health Needs Assessment. The Foundation’s six endowments are strategically designed to address these issues and empower nonprofits to break cycles of poverty and foster resilience across the county.

The Greater Good Society Fund serves as the cornerstone of the Foundation’s grantmaking initiatives. Annual distributions will support the “Greatest Community Need Grantmaking Program,” which awards grants to agencies addressing pressing local issues. “This fund ensures that we can remain responsive to emerging challenges while maintaining a focus on sustainable growth,” said Cruickshank.

The Early Childhood Education Field of Interest Fund focuses on expanding access to high-quality, affordable childcare—a vital component of economic stability. “Affordable childcare is a very complex workforce issue, an education issue, and a family stability issue all rolled into one,” said Barbi Jones, Executive Director of the Chamber, Leading Business in Cabarrus. “Quality childcare benefits the parents to allow them to work and earn family-sustaining wages; the employer is able to hire for needed roles to fulfill their workforce needs, and the child will be kindergarten-ready after receiving quality care. This fund will be a game-changer for the agencies supporting working families in our community.”
The Employment and Training Field of Interest Fund aims to bridge the gap between local talent and economic opportunity. By funding programs that provide job training, career counseling, and placement services, this initiative addresses workforce challenges head-on. “A skilled and resilient workforce is critical to our region’s growth,” noted Bratton. “This fund helps support agencies who create clear pathways to sustainable employment for residents.”

The Food Security and Nutrition Field of Interest Fund tackles hunger and nutrition inequity, supporting nonprofits that expand access to healthy food and promote education about nutrition. “Food insecurity doesn’t just affect individuals—it impacts entire communities,” said Ed Hosack, President of Cooperative Christian Ministry. “This fund will make a significant difference in ensuring that everyone in Cabarrus County has access to nutritious meals.”

The Healthcare Field of Interest Fund addresses disparities in access to medical care, focusing on preventative services and treatment for underserved populations. “Healthcare access is foundational to community well-being,” said Cruickshank. “This fund empowers nonprofits to close gaps in care and improve health outcomes for all residents.”

The Housing and Homelessness Impact Field of Interest Fund targets the urgent need for affordable housing and innovative solutions to homelessness. “Housing stability is the cornerstone of opportunity,” said Suzanne Philemon, Executive Director of the Cannon Foundation. “This fund will strengthen the collective ability to address one of the most pressing social issues in Cabarrus County.”