Page 20 - South Mississippi Living - February, 2026

PEOPLE
story by Lynn Lofton
photos courtesy of Gulf Coast Community Foundation
It’s time to celebrate a month of philanthropy with the Gulf Coast Community Foundation (GCCF) as they kick off February 2026 with a month-long celebration of philanthropy filled with events that inspire giving and strengthen the community. The celebration will culminate on February 27 with the 228 Day Open House and Celebration at the Knight Nonprofit Center beginning at 8 a.m., highlighting the incredible impact GCCF has made across the Gulf Coast and beyond.
“Our mission is centered on helping people leave meaningful legacies that benefit causes they care about. Our 228 Day celebration reflects this commitment,” said Dr. Christen H. Duhé, president and executive director of GCCF. “With more than 130 funds, GCCF helps our region be an even better place to live and work. We invite everyone to celebrate philanthropy with us in February.”
Auxiliary of Gulfport, Junior Auxiliary of Hancock County and PrepareHER Now of Jackson County in a donation drive for health and wellness items for local children.
• GCCF and the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce are partnering to host CyberSecure the Gulf Coast on February 6 at the Knight Nonprofit Center, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. This is a no-cost professional development workshop, sponsored by AGJ Systems and Gallagher, is designed for business owners who want to protect their companies from cyber threats. Participants will connect with other local professionals, enjoy a working lunch, and walk away with clear, actionable steps to strengthen their businesses’ cybersecurity.
• GivHer Circle members will tour Back Bay Mission, the 2025 recipient of the $20,000 GivHer Circle grant.
• The 228 Day Open House and Celebration will begin at
8 a.m. on February 27 at the Knight Nonprofit Center, where GCCF will celebrate 36 years of community impact while recognizing donors and supporters for their vital contributions. The Corporate Catalyst Award, Nonprofit Catalyst Award and Philanthropy Catalyst Award will also be presented.
These are examples of grants awarded to recipients making a difference on the Mississippi Gulf Coast:
This year’s 228 Day celebration will once again benefit GCCF’s Community Impact Fund. There are several levels at which individuals and businesses can give:
Corporate Partners
$25,000 Community
$15,000 Collaboration
$10,000 Innovation
$5,000 Service
Additional 228 Day Celebration details include:
• Several groups are participating in the 2026 228 Day celebration. All month long, GCCF will partner with Junior
20 | February 2026
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Friends of the Foundation
$2,500 Legacy $1,000 Partner $500 Supporter
•
Education & Community Grants: Anthony Dartez Endowment Fund, Mary & Gene Levens Excellence in Teaching Grant, Pat Santucci Education Fund