Stories lie at the heart of every community, reflecting our shared histories, struggles, and triumphs. They remind us that progress is rarely linear, and empathy can spark the most significant transformations. At The J.W. Couch Foundation, we sincerely believe in storytelling's power as an engine for impact. It shapes the ways we connect with each other and fuels our desire to create sustainable change.
In 2024, we distributed $2,411,667 in grants to 30 nonprofit organizations across our three core areas—preservation, education, and wellness. This marked another milestone in our eight-year journey of giving, bringing our total contributions to over $13 million. Even as the scope of our grantmaking grows, our appreciation for stories and those who tell them deepens.
Grants Awarded in 2024
$1,200,000
$900,000
$600,000
$300,000
Key Partners
Grant Regions
Texas (46%)
Florida (30%)
North Carolina (10%)
Kansas (3%)
Virginia (8%)
Maine (1%)
All around us, the organizations we support are demonstrating how a single story, skillfully shared, can transform perceptions and galvanize communities to act. One of our grantees— Seacoast Collegiate High School, understands that a compelling narrative can catalyze community support, galvanize donors, and ignite a shared vision for progress. By sharing stories of dedicated teachers, determined students, and alums whose lives were transformed by a rigorous and nurturing learning environment, the school inspired a wave of enthusiasm and generosity that made building a new high school campus possible. This expanded facility will not only meet the needs of current students but will also stand as a beacon of educational excellence for future generations. With state-of-the-art resources and a vibrant sense of community, Seacoast Collegiate High School's storytelling investment ensures its mission thrives for decades.
In the wellness realm, Screen Sanity recognizes the profound impact of excessive screen use on children's mental and emotional well-being, and it works tirelessly to empower parents with practical solutions. Screen Sanity can use the power of storytelling to create meaningful content that resonates with families nationwide. By sharing personal narratives, valuable tips, and relatable experiences, they shed light on the challenges of screen time and offer real-world strategies for establishing healthier digital habits. In doing so, Screen Sanity sparks vital conversations and fosters a supportive community committed to safeguarding children's healthy development in today's technology-driven world.
This year has demonstrated how communities can thrive when they share their voices. Our commitment to storytelling as a force for good runs deep, and we are determined to expand this aspect of our grantmaking. Whether through live events, digital platforms, or intimate gatherings, we will stand behind those who seek to use stories to illuminate hidden truths, ignite solidarity, and propel change forward.
$900,000
$675,000
$450,000
$225,000
$900,000 Planned
$463,500 Remaining
$900,000 Planned
$775,000 Remaining
$900,000 Planned
$600,000 Remaining
As we look ahead, we believe that when individuals come together to share their experiences, they break down barriers of mistrust and misunderstanding. By honoring these narratives and ensuring they reach the widest possible audience, we hope to inspire even more people to join in creating healthier, stronger, and more inclusive communities.
Thank you for standing with us during this remarkable year. Our accomplishments in 2024 would not be possible without the support and dedication of our board, staff, partners, and donors. Our work is defined by partnerships built on shared purpose, mutual respect, and a passion for storytelling that resonates far beyond the confines of any single project. Together, we will continue to lift up the voices that need to be heard and spark the transformations that bring communities closer.
Sean Couch
President & Co-Trustee