Baptist Health Foundation has been recognized as Bank of America’s 2024 Neighborhood Champion, an honor awarded to organizations that foster social and economic progress in their communities. The designation comes with a $50,000 grant, distributed over two years, to support initiatives that enhance educational opportunities in health care.
For two decades, Bank of America’s Neighborhood Champions and Neighborhood Builders programs have provided financial support and leadership training to nonprofits that drive community development. The award offers core operating funds, executive leadership resources and networking opportunities with peer organizations nationwide.
“Neighborhood Champions is an example of Bank of America’s commitment to responsible growth as we work to advance economic mobility and improve quality of life for Arkansans, with a particular focus on low- and moderate-income communities,” said Heather Jones, president of Bank of America Arkansas. “Last year, the Baptist Health Foundation was our Neighborhood Champion because of their work to remove barriers and access to health care as well as training the next generation of Arkansas nurses.”
The grant will be used to launch a Student Academic Success and Tutoring Program at Baptist Health College Little Rock, expanding academic support for nursing and allied health students. The initiative aims to improve retention and graduation rates by providing students with the tools needed to complete their education.
With workforce shortages impacting the health care industry, the investment will help train and equip future medical professionals, ensuring a stronger pipeline of skilled workers in Arkansas.
“We are incredibly grateful to Bank of America for awarding Baptist Health College Little Rock with the Neighborhood Champions Award in support of academic success for nursing and allied health students,” said Janet Marshall, chief development officer of Baptist Health Foundation. “Thank you, Bank of America, for helping Baptist Health ensure our students will receive the best learning tools and educational opportunities available.”
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