Academy of Columbia

Established as a donor advised fund with Central Carolina Community Foundation in 2001, the Academy of Columbia has identified a list of potential partners to enhance and improve the educational opportunities that target children and families in Richland School District One. The grants from this fund are awarded to those partner organizations who are invited to participate in the proposal process.

Letters announcing available grants are sent to potential partners in January each year.  If you have any questions contact Veronica Pinkett-Barber, Donor Services Associate, at 803.254.5601 x. 331 or veronica@yourfoundation.org.    

FY07 Grant Recipients

Big Brothers-Big Sisters of Greater Columbia, Inc. - $26,000
to expand the school-based mentoring program at Hand Middle School and E.E. Taylor Elementary School.  This program provides one-to-one mentoring that addresses a child's academic performance, behavior, use of school resources, and attitude toward school.

Sandhills School - $4,000
to explore and conduct specialized training for teachers regarding students with learning disabilities.  This effort is a collaboration with the State Department of Education and Richland School District One.

Volunteers of America Carolinas - $31,745
for the Rolling Readers program.  This program recruits, trains and places community volunteers to read aloud or tutor reading to disadvantaged children in Title One schools, children and family shelters, community and faith-based centers, and after-school programs.