Celebrating 35 Years of Impact Across The Mid South

Since 1990, the Foundation for the Mid South has brought together people, ideas, and investments to strengthen communities across Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Our mission is to expand opportunities, build equity, and improve lives throughout the Mid South. Together, we continue transforming opportunity into action.

Our Story

"The Foundation for the Mid South has played a critical role in helping our district improve from an F to a B through professional development, strategic planning, and workforce development support.”

Holmes County Consolidated School District

“It is a privilege to celebrate the Foundation for the Mid South’s legacy of service, partnership, and impact. To our partners, grantees, and friends, thank you for walking alongside us. Your trust has made this work possible, and together we are building a stronger, more equitable future for our region.”

Theo Bunting, FMS Board Chair

In 1988, three southern governors and business leaders recognized the need to unite public and private resources to combat poverty and promote education and economic growth in the region. That vision became a reality in 1990 with the creation of the Foundation for the Mid South.

From the beginning, the Foundation has focused on creating long-term change by investing in education, health, and economic development. Every initiative centers on one guiding belief: the people who live and work in our communities know what they need to succeed.

The same belief continues to drive our mission to create a stronger, more equitable Mid South for all.

Watch how the Foundation for the Mid South grows from an idea to a regional powerhouse, transforming communities and fostering sustainable development across Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

35 Years of Impact

1990s

Laying the Foundation

FMS invests in workforce training, community development credit unions, and youth programs. The organization establishes its first partnerships with faith-based and education leaders across the Delta.

2000s

Rebuilding and Resilience

After Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, FMS provides millions in grants to rebuild healthcare infrastructure and strengthen community resilience. Programs like the Building Community Resilience Fund and Communities of Opportunity Initiative bring hope to families.

2010s

Education and Workforce Expansion

The Foundation deepens investments in community colleges, workforce funding collaboratives, and youth STEM programs. Initiatives such as Better Schools, Better Jobs, and the Boys and Girls Club of the Mid Delta expand educational access and support.

2020s

Equity in Action

Under new leadership, FMS advances racial healing, economic mobility, and workforce innovation. Partnerships like the Mississippi Justice Fund and Boss Lady Transportation demonstrate how local solutions build regional progress.

Over the last 35 years, the Foundation for the Mid South has played a crucial role in establishing and maintaining institutions that continue to impact lives throughout the region. Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, the Foundation has supported educational initiatives, economic development, and healthcare improvements. Our dedication to the communities we serve has not only provided immediate benefits but has also laid the groundwork for long-term growth and prosperity. By investing in local leadership and fostering innovation, the Foundation has ensured that communities are better equipped to face future challenges and seize new opportunities.

Here are some of our most impactful partnerships:

Hope Credit Union & Hope Enterprise Corporation

FMS takes great pride in our partnership with Hope Credit Union and Hope Enterprise Corporation. (Formally Enterprise Corporation of the Delta)

Collaborating to help families build financial strength and stability. Through their programs, they offer financial education, access to affordable loans, and resources that empower families to achieve economic independence.

Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation-Mississippi

FMS is honored to collaborate with the Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation (TRHT) initiative in Mississippi, which promotes racial healing through a focus on narrative change, storytelling, relationship-building, and economic transformation.

At the heart of the initiative lies a commitment to building a state where everyone, regardless of race or ethnicity, has access to opportunities and is treated with dignity and respect.

GEAR UP Mississippi Delta Partnership

The Foundation for the Mid-South’s partnership with Gear Up Mississippi Delta provided the Foundation with the opportunity to support students from 6th grade through their first year of postsecondary education, offering a comprehensive range of support, while preparing scholars for college and career success.

“We are building a values-based team that uses our position to influence change. Our next chapter focuses on combining philanthropy with advocacy and communication to help families and communities move from where they are to where they want to be.”

Greg Johnson, President and CEO Foundation for the Mid South

The Foundation for the Mid South is entering its next chapter with a clear direction and measurable goals. The 2025–2030 Strategic Plan builds on 35 years of progress by advancing equity through education, health, and economic opportunity across Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

This plan deepens our impact through a dual focus on Community Development and Wealth Building, strengthening local infrastructure while helping families build financial stability. The Foundation is also amplifying its role as a convener and connector, bringing together leaders across sectors to create systems that work better for everyone.

Launching Our Strategic Vision

During our 35th Anniversary Gala, we introduced a bold five-year plan shaped by the needs and voices of the Mid South. The 2025–2030 Strategic Plan charts our path forward as we strengthen communities and expand opportunity across the region.

Over the next five years, we will:

College Readiness

Increase high school graduation and college readiness rates across the Mid South.

Healthcare

Expand access to healthcare and mental health resources in underserved areas.

Affordable Housing

Grow affordable housing options and workforce development programs.

Financial Security

Help more families build savings and long-term financial security.

Learn about our Strategic Plan

Experience moments from our 35th Anniversary Gala. The evening celebrated three and a half decades of progress with community leaders, partners, and supporters who have helped shape our journey.