Press Release
November 16, 2005
The Rebuild Ocean Springs Fund Announces Campaign: $100,000 Every 100 Days

While Gulf Coast cities continue to work with state and national officials to rebuild following Hurricane Katrina’s devastating impact, a group in Ocean Springs is announcing an ambitious plan to put private and non-profit funds to work to “Rebuild Ocean Springs.”

The Rebuild Ocean Springs Fund, which has organized through the efforts of a broad base of community leaders, is launching its initial fund-raising effort: “$100,000 every 100 days,” and is inviting participation from anyone who has any physical or sentimental ties to the City of Discovery. 

“Ocean Springs was hit hard by Katrina and people all over the country have offered their help.  This Fund was created to accept financial donations so that we can assist individuals and community organizations get back on their feet,” states Mayor Connie Moran, an advisor to the Fund. 

“This is the right time to build a community fund.  People want to give to an organization that is local, accountable, and responsible.  We believe that $100,000 every 100 days is doable – and important,” states Reverend Mike Barnett, pastor at First Baptist Church. 

The Rebuild Ocean Springs Fund is an Advised Fund within the Foundation for the Mid South, a fifteen year old community foundation headquartered in Jackson, MS.  There are 13 local advisors who are dedicated to raising funds for two primary purposes: 

1) Humanitarian assistance to organizations that help individuals.  A portion of the funds will be distributed to organizations that will help individuals to rebuild their homes and lives.  This program area will help families develop long-term recovery plans.  These plans will help connect people to volunteers and donated resources.   Some families will receive financial contributions to help fill the gaps between insurance and government assistance.

2) Rebuild public infrastructure and key institutions.  A portion of the funds will be used to rebuild neighborhoods and town centers.  The fund will also invest in arts and culture, parks and recreation, social services, and historic preservation.

The Fund was created on October 1st and has received gifts of over $12,000 to date.  The first gifts were from Victory Full Gospel Christian Church, Ocean Springs; The Ocean Springs Ministerial Alliance; and Roy and Virginia Richards, Charleston, South Carolina.

Reverend Carlton McCarter adds, “We hope that Ocean Springs residents will spread the word about the Fund to their family members, social and business networks.  We have some simple fund-raising materials that can be shared via the internet or through the mail.” 

For more information or to volunteer to help raise money for the fund, contact Julia Weaver at (228) 872-2670 or by e-mail at juliaweaver@RebuildOceanSprings.org.