Fort Bend Cares Surpasses $1 Million Given in Grants

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Excitement was in the air as 31 charities and numerous sponsors and volunteers gathered at Classic Chevrolet when Fort Bend Cares presented grants totaling $155,000, which brought the organization to a total of $1 million plus given. Now entering its ninth year, Fort Bend Cares continues to make a powerful impact on the disadvantaged children and youth of Fort Bend County.

To date, Fort Bend Cares has distributed approximately $1,050,000 in designated grants. The grant applications are evaluated and put through rigorous analysis by a group of local community volunteers who serve on the grant committee. Board of Trustees Chair Rick Conley said, “The grant committee has the deep appreciation of our Board. Reaching one million dollars in our relatively short history is a milestone that we celebrate and thank the many volunteers, supporters and sponsors that helped get us to this point. Now, on to the next million dollars!”

The highlight of the event came when Dr. Robert McClendon presented the newly instituted Fort Bend Cares Founder’s Grant named after the co-founders Dr. Robert McClendon and The Honorable Jim Rice. This grant was presented to Knowledge First Empowerment Center, an organization that provides academic services, tutoring and after school programs. During his presentation of the Founders Grant, Dr. McClendon praised Knowledge First Empowerment Center for the wonderful impact that the founders of this organization have already made on the youth of Fort Bend County and challenged them to use the proceeds from this grant to continue their fine work.

“We are thrilled to be able to support so many dedicated organizations that are doing valuable work in Fort Bend County,” said Laura Richard, Executive Director. “The people and businesses in this community recognize the needs of children and they give generously.”

Visit www.fortbendcares.org. for a list of grant recipients and more information on Fort Bend Cares.