Strategic funding from GACF helped bridge gaps and foster new beginnings with the Have Mercy Genesis2 project. A local nonprofit, Have Mercy works to keep families together and housed, while helping them solve the issues that led them to homelessness. The organization’s Genesis2 project received crucial grant support from GACF, evolving their main facility into a dynamic, multi-purpose space that goes far beyond providing shelter. The addition of a dedicated floor for men in recovery, an ADA-compliant wing, a teaching kitchen, and corporate office space showcases a comprehensive approach, addressing multiple facets of community needs under one roof.  

The significance of these upgrades goes beyond infrastructure.” The completion of this project will enable us shelter people with physical disabilities for the first time, as well as to bring substance abuse recovery into focus in our community,” says Kim Cain, Executive Director of Have Mercy, “We’ll also be streamlining our resources by combining corporate offices and our pantry in one building instead of three buildings.” 

The grant funding also played a role in launching the Step-Up Recovery program, aimed at helping men rebuild their lives. “Whether they come from the streets or from a criminal justice system, they need a place to start over and work on a “new beginning”, Cain explains. The GACF-funded teaching kitchen is central to this initiative, as it equips participants with culinary skills that can lead to employment and self-sufficiency. The program anticipates helping as many as 100 men each year. 

Cain recognizes the importance of local funding partnerships. “Community foundations are absolutely vital to the sustainability and growth of a community.” she says. “There are far too many (needs) for any one group to address. A community foundation can fill in the gaps. Thank you for investing in us and investing in the community through our work.” 

As GACF celebrates its 35th anniversary, we bring together the collective stories of donors, nonprofits, students, and community members to demonstrate the power of philanthropy in creating lasting impact and a stronger future.