Our cities and neighborhoods need more seed sewing.

The spark of investment, financial or otherwise, is especially crucial in communities challenged by underemployment and lack of other growth opportunities.

But who has the vision to help cultivate blocks of often cracked and worn concrete into fertile ground?

Where the goal of sowing seed is transformation, bold belief is required to create a positive outcome.

Ruth Mott Foundation’s recent $1.8 million in grantmaking demonstrates vision and bold belief. Adding to its long history of funneling resources into Flint’s most vulnerable neighborhoods, the organization recently made a commitment to improving the quality of life for residents in the vital north end.

While the community has been hit hard by adversity, North Flint has also produced a legacy of the city’s heroes, including two-time Olympic boxing gold medalist Claressa Shields, who trained at FWS Berston Boxing. One of 18 grantees announced in April, Berston Boxing will work with about 200 predominantly north end youth in 2017.

Others sharing in the North Flint grant investment, which is prioritized across the categories of youth, public safety, economic opportunity, and neighborhoods, include North Flint Neighborhood Action Council, North Flint Grocery Initiative, and Building Men of Excellence. The projects address a wide variety of community needs, from employment and the arts to literacy and nutrition.

Not only do the awards help a variety of organizations better serve residents, they help mentors, grassroots organizers, educators and other neighborhood visionaries continue the narrative of transformation many have made their mission.

Ruth Mott Foundation’s targeted investment reflects more than a focus on charitable giving. The grants to north end agencies and programs show keen recognition of the community’s potential.

Sowing seed in fertile ground is an act that blooms into progress.

Caption: Mr. Gaines Gardening Program PLUS participants help energize North Flint with planting efforts supported by Ruth Mott Foundation.

  Berston Field House, Building Men of Excellence, Flint, Mr. Gaines Gardening Program PLUS, North Flint, North Flint Grocery Initiative, North Flint Neighborhood Action Council, Olympic boxing gold medalist Claressa Shields, Ruth Mott Foundation

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