ANNISTON, AL — The Calhoun County Area Chamber & Visitors Center’s 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Inc., has been awarded a $4,300 grant through Sparklight’s Charitable Giving Fund to support the Chamber’s Youth Entrepreneur Program.
According to the Chamber, the funding will be used to expand the program, which serves Calhoun County students ages 8 to 18 who are enrolled in school and interested in entrepreneurship. Established in 2023, the program was created to recognize and support young people who have already begun their journeys as small business owners.
“We are very grateful for Sparklight’s partnership and investment in our community,” said Ashlee Jones, Communications Director. “The Youth Entrepreneur Program gives students the opportunity to learn directly from local business leaders, develop confidence in their abilities, and explore what it takes to build and grow a successful business. This support will help us expand opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and strengthen the future workforce of Calhoun County.”
The Sparklight Charitable Giving Fund awards approximately $250,000 annually to nonprofit organizations focused on strengthening local communities. Funding priorities include education and digital literacy, food insecurity, and community development. During this grant cycle, the fund also supported organizations serving vulnerable children, promoting workforce readiness, increasing access to technology, and helping seniors maintain independence.
Jim Holanda, CEO of Cable One, Sparklight’s parent company, said the company is committed to supporting nonprofit organizations that address local needs.
“Across our footprint, nonprofit organizations are making a meaningful difference every day by addressing local needs and strengthening the communities we call home,” Holanda said. “We’re proud to support their efforts through our Charitable Giving Fund and help expand the impact of their important work.”
More information about the Calhoun County Chamber’s Youth Entrepreneur Program is available through the Chamber.
