Empowering Change: Rockefeller Foundation's New Fellowship Launch
Revolutionizing Community Support through Innovation
The Rockefeller Foundation is stepping up its commitment to improving the lives of many by launching its U.S.-Focused Big Bets Fellowship. This initiative aims to empower twelve innovators across various states, allowing them to create impactful solutions that promote prosperity, health, and economic investment within their communities.
Driving Positive Change Across America
This fellowship is designed for individuals determined to pioneer transformational changes in their localities. Innovators from different regions, including Alaska, California, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Wyoming, have been chosen to participate. Their projects focus on enhancing the availability of nutritious food, boosting economic opportunities, and fostering overall wellbeing for all.
Meet the 2025 U.S. Big Bets Fellows
The Rockefeller Foundation proudly presents its inaugural class of Big Bets Fellows. This unique four-month fellowship offers comprehensive programming, networking opportunities, and professional development to help these change-makers implement and expand their initiatives.
Innovative Projects by State
Each fellow brings a tailored approach to addressing local needs:
- Alaska – Gretchen Fauske: Aiming to assist survivors of domestic violence, Gretchen's project focuses on facilitating financial independence through education and supportive services.
- California – Marina Zhavoronkova: Marina's work expands access to federally funded construction jobs, promoting workforce opportunities, especially for underrepresented groups.
- California – Rey Faustino: By harnessing cutting-edge technology, Rey's initiative streamlines access to essential services for low-income families.
- Georgia – Tiffany Terrell: Tiffany's mobile grocery initiative aims to supply nutritious food directly to underserved communities, fighting food insecurity.
- Illinois – Dion Dawson: Focused on the Chicago area, Dion is working to improve food distribution by employing local talent in delivering fresh produce.
- Kentucky – Colby Hall: Colby aims to enhance job opportunities in Eastern Kentucky through technology and entrepreneurship.
- New Jersey – Catherine Wilson: Catherine is focused on creating community-developed housing opportunities for low-income residents to generate financial returns.
- New York – Melissa Bukuru: Through collaboration with employers, Melissa seeks to improve financial literacy and security for low-income workers.
- Oklahoma – Jennifer Hankins: Jennifer aims to boost Tulsa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem while preparing its workforce for future demands.
- Pennsylvania – Alexandre Imbot: Alexandre's initiative reimagines convenience stores as food pharmacies to enhance access to nutritious options.
- West Virginia – Jacob Hannah: Jacob focuses on revitalizing rural communities by leveraging local talent to convert neglected properties into valuable investments.
- Wyoming – Paul Huberty: Through his work, Paul aims to enhance Indigenous economies by improving access to essential resources and training.
A Legacy of Impact and Philanthropy
With a mission rooted in collaborative partnerships, The Rockefeller Foundation has made a significant impact through its various initiatives for over a century. Since its inception in 1913, the foundation has placed a strong emphasis on enhancing public health, scientific research, and economic opportunity.
Since 2005, the foundation has significantly invested in U.S. initiatives, directing nearly $3 billion towards advancing programs that promote Food is Medicine initiatives and other essential economic opportunities. This investment reflects their commitment to fostering solutions that resonate with the needs of diverse communities nationwide.
Fellowship Origins and Future Aspirations
The Big Bets Fellowship originally launched with a focus on Latin America and the Caribbean. The success of its pilot program has paved the way for this U.S.-focused initiative, allowing the foundation to extend its reach and help drive impactful changes.
As the 2025 fellows embark on their journey, they enhance their ability to effect real change by honing their strategies and forming impactful partnerships within their communities.
About The Rockefeller Foundation
The Rockefeller Foundation stands as a beacon of hope and innovation, using collaborative methods to support humanity. By making bold investments, we aim to tackle global challenges related to food, health, energy, and finance. Together, we strive to create a future where human opportunity flourishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Big Bets Fellowship?
The Big Bets Fellowship is an initiative by The Rockefeller Foundation designed to support innovators in creating impactful community-driven solutions.
How many fellows are participating in the program?
This year, twelve fellows from various states across the U.S. are part of the inaugural class of the Big Bets Fellowship.
What types of projects are the fellows working on?
Fellows are implementing diverse projects that address food insecurity, enhance economic opportunities, and promote community wellbeing.
How long does the fellowship last?
The fellowship program runs for four months, during which fellows gain resources and professional development opportunities.
What is the mission of The Rockefeller Foundation?
The foundation focuses on collaborative partnerships to promote the wellbeing of humanity and drive systemic change across various sectors.
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