The Care Center Receives $500,000 Gift from the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation to Support Bard Microcollege Holyoke

The Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation generously donated $500,000 to The Care Center, a Holyoke, Massachusetts–based nonprofit championing the education of young mothers, toward its $4 million “Moving Women Forward” endowment campaign, which is aimed at transforming the lives of low-income women and their families by securing the future of Bard Microcollege Holyoke. Developed as a partnership between Bard College and The Care Center, Bard Microcollege Holyoke is the first-of-its-kind tuition-free college designed for mothers and low-income women. The Care Center, acclaimed for its innovative approach to education, provides young mothers and low-income women with the tools and support needed to attain a college education. Through small class sizes, a rich curriculum, and extensive support services, Bard Microcollege Holyoke breaks down barriers to education and boasts a 72% graduation rate, compared to 30% for associate degree programs nationwide, and just 8% for single moms nationally. With this substantial gift, The Care Center’s “Moving Women Forward” endowment has now achieved 80% of its fundraising goal.

“We are so proud to support such a groundbreaking organization that is making a tangible difference in the lives of young mothers, transforming our educational infrastructure, and contributing to the overall wellbeing and progress of our community,” said Paul Besito, Executive Director of The Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation. 

Post Date: 11-09-2023