Speaker: Rayna Barnhart
Introduce yourself and your community: Start with your name, your organization’s name, and the community you serve.
Rayna Barnhart: Hello, my name is Rayna Barnhart, and the name of the organization is the Alvin J. McKenzie Scholarship Fund, and it serves the community of Springfield, Massachusetts, and it also serves the community of Atlanta, Georgia. Um, and we, we are focused on education. Um, most of the things that we do, um, would be to contribute to the youth in those communities, sneaker giveaways, backpacks, school supplies, food donations.
Tell us the impact your nonprofit makes.
Rayna Barnhart: The Alvin J. McKenzie Fund was founded to bridge gaps and opportunity for underserved families by providing educational resources, community support, and youth development programs. Our mission is to ensure that no child is left behind simply because of financial hardship. So each year we see the need growing. Families struggling with the rising cost of living are turning to us for essential items like school supplies, book bags, and mentorship opportunities. Last year, we distributed over 1000 bookbags filled with supplies to children in Springfield, Massachusetts and Atlanta, GA. This year, the Demand has nearly doubled as more parents reach out anxious about how to prepare their children for school without adequate means. One mother shared that her son had never started a school year with all supplies he needed until he intended our back to school giveaway. You didn't just give him a backpack, she said you gave him confidence.
Let the public know how they can support your nonprofit.
Rayna Barnhart: Every dollar counts. A gift of $25 provides a student with a fully stocked book bag, and $100 helps support family-focused programs and community events. We're currently collecting new book bags, notebooks, pens, and other school supplies for our annual back to school giveaway. We also do brand new sneakers. Local businesses and individuals can also contribute gift cards, snacks, or hygiene kits to support families in need. Our work is powered by the generosity of people like you, individuals, businesses, and community partners who believe in uplifting families and investing in the next generation.
