Every grassroots leader carries a vision, but vision alone isn’t always enough. With the right support, mentorship and tools like DIVERSEcity’s BUILD program, community organizations can grow stronger roots.
When Solomon Iwegim thinks back on the early days of Thrive4Blacks Community Services Society, he remembers a small team with a big dream and a long road ahead. The organization was incorporated in 2020 and began operating in 2021, born from a need he saw in his community. But like many emerging grassroots groups, Thrive4Blacks quickly faced a major hurdle: capacity.
“We wanted to support our community in meaningful ways, but we were learning everything as we went,” Solomon explains. “We had passion and commitment, but we needed guidance.”
That guidance arrived through DIVERSEcity’s BUILD program. When Solomon heard about the program, he knew it was the right opportunity for his organization. “It was a clear choice for us to participate,” he says. “The skills, knowledge and resources we received were incredibly helpful.”
For the first time, Thrive4Blacks felt equipped to pursue the kind of funding that could expand their impact. “We applied for a major grant, something we had never done before, and we were very hopeful at the time. We remain hopeful today,” he shares.
The learning didn’t end there. Empowered by his experience, Solomon supported another small nonprofit with their own grant application, and they were successful. He describes this as one of the most rewarding outcomes of his journey.
“That felt amazing,” he says. “We were able to pay forward what DIVERSEcity shared with us.”
Solomon speaks with deep gratitude for the relationship that formed along the way. “DIVERSEcity has been like big brothers to us, always extending a helping hand. For that, we are truly grateful.”
BUILD goes regional
BUILD Project Manager, Sumaiyyah Adam, reflects on the impact of the program — online resources, webinars and guides designed to continue supporting BIPOC grassroots organizations well into the future. For Solomon, that impact means more leaders like him will have the tools they need to grow, and more communities will feel the impact.
Interested in building capacity for your grassroots organization? BUILD is now available across BC-Yukon.
The BUILD BC-Yukon program is designed to support BIPOC-led nonprofits through training, mentorship and practical tools that strengthen organizational impact.
Learn more and register to join here.