When things don’t work out the first time, it’s easy to give up, but the Calhoun Community Organization’s story shows how persistence and preparation can turn an initial setback into lasting community impact.

Carolyn and Carlos Turner, representatives from the Calhoun Community Organization in Lowndes County, shared their story at the Qtr 1 Mid-South RC&D Council meeting. Their testimony was full of passion as they traced their experiences back to their first attempts to obtain grants in 2023, discussing how they overcame challenges to begin a four-phase project to restore an old community park.

The Calhoun Community Organization discovered the Mid-South RC&D grant cycle through the Lowndes County Commission after requesting funds for the Calhoun Community Park. Jackie Thomas, a former council member and district administrator, introduced them to the Mid-South RC&D Council’s fiscal year 2024 grant. At this time, grant writing was new territory for Carolyn. She worked closely with Mid-South RC&D staff to ensure she was on the right track. 

Unfortunately, their initial application was not approved because of a paperwork issue, but that didn’t stop them. Carolyn overcame the initial challenge and double-checked to ensure everything was in order before applying for a fiscal year 2025 grant. This time, she was more familiar with the process, making it easier to ensure her application was in its best shape. Still, Carolyn gave herself plenty of time to work on the application, to contact the staff with questions, and to ensure her application conveyed how the project aligns with Mid-South RC&D’s mission. 

Her diligence paid off when the Calhoun Community Organization was approved for its first-ever grant, receiving $5,000 to begin Phase One of its park project. 

“It really set the foundation for what we’re aiming to do, allowing us to find our footing and to identity as an organization,” Carlos said. “So, it really helped us a lot even outside of the monetary aid that was given.”

“At first, we were kind of discouraged because we had not received any grants, but Mid-South RC&D was the first to give us the grant that we truly needed. You all gave us faith that we’re going to see this project through,” Carolyn said. 

Mid-South RC&D funded the Calhoun Community Organization again in fiscal year 2026 to continue with Phase Two improvements. Old equipment was replaced with new play equipment, grills, benches, and signage. These improvements brought children back to the playground and enabled the park to host community events. 

Carolyn shared her advice to new grantees applying for a Mid-South RC&D grant:

“First, they need to make sure they have everything in order regarding their organization’s paperwork and 501(c)(3) status; next, make sure they have enough time to sit down and go through the application. Finally, consider the application’s answers and try to tie them in with Mid-South RC&D’s mission. It may not feel like an easy process, but the reward is worth it,” Carolyn said.