Page 21 - South Mississippi Living - February, 2026

• Jack A. and Gertrude W. Wilson Animal Welfare Fund: More than $1.3 million in grants has been awarded since 2001, including $150,000 in 2025 alone.
• Operation Round Up (in partnership with Coast Electric Power Association): Since 2019, over $1.8 million in grants has been awarded to local nonprofits. These grants are funded by Coast Electric members through the Coast Electric Community Trust Fund.
• Leo W. Seal Innovative Teacher Grants (in partnership with Hancock Whitney Bank): Began in 1993, awarding up to 10 grants of $2,000 each annually.
• John T. and Lois R. “Sonny” Velkas Child Welfare Fund: 2025 grants were awarded to CASA of South Mississippi, Magnolia Medical Foundation, Triumph Church of Gulfport, and United Way of South Mississippi.
• Stone County Community Fund: In 2025, Stone County nonprofits BackPack Boosters and Blessings in a Backpack received the first-ever grants from this GCCF affiliate, totaling $2,500.
• GivHer Circle Grant: The second annual $20,000 grant was awarded to Back Bay Mission in 2025. The grant is made possible by the generosity of GivHer Circle members.
The Foundation is proud of its large community impact. Since 1989, GCCF has invested more than $110 million in South Mississippi. It achieves meaningful, lasting impact by connecting people, ideas, and resources to support
our region and helping build stronger, more resilient communities by fostering collaboration, empowering philanthropy, and providing resources to address local needs.
“At GCCF, we believe in the power of giving to make a difference across our six-county region,” said Dr. Duhé. “Our goal is to connect people, ideas and resources in ways that create real, lasting impact.”
Visit www.mgccf.org/228-day to give and to register for February events. For additional information, call 228.897.4841 or email info@mgccf.org.
11975 Seaway Road, Suite B-150, Gulfport 228.897.4841
www.mgccf.org
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net
Photos from last year’s inaugural 228 Day Celebration highlight the collaboration and community impact that define this annual event. From honoring individuals, nonprofits, and businesses to partnering on service projects and professional development, 228 Day brings people together in meaningful ways.
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