The Border Philanthropy Partnership (BPP) continues to stand as a catalyst for positive change and collaboration in the vibrant and diverse U.S.-Mexico Borderlands. With a steadfast commitment to building prosperity through leadership, collaboration, and philanthropy, the BPP has played a pivotal role in nurturing a network of over 400 groups encompassing academia, business partners, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and grantmaking foundations. Since its inception in 2008, the BPP has been instrumental in fostering cross-border cooperation and addressing critical challenges facing border communities.
At the core of the BPP’s mission lies a dedication to providing comprehensive training and education opportunities. To date, over 20,000 leaders have been empowered with essential skills in governance, resource development, communication, volunteerism, and cross-cultural understanding. Through tailored coaching sessions, more than 450 organizations have received invaluable support, enabling them to enhance their capacity and effectiveness in serving their communities.
Moreover, the BPP has facilitated the legal transfer of over US$12 million between the U.S. and Mexico, directing vital funds towards charitable endeavors in areas such as arts and culture, child services, education, environment, public health, and public policy advocacy. Additionally, the BPP has provided crucial financial assistance exceeding US$400,000 to nonprofit and philanthropic organizations, empowering them to undertake strategic planning, improve governance structures, and strengthen resource development efforts.
Amidst the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the BPP has demonstrated remarkable resilience and leadership. Spearheading COVID-19 testing initiatives, the BPP played a pivotal role in vaccinating over 1 million Mexican nationals residing in the USA and 250,000 individuals in the Dos Laredos region. Furthermore, through collaborative efforts with the Mexican government, the BPP allocated over US$1.6 million to the Ventanilla de Salud program, supporting critical health and wellness activities across the United States.
In a recent milestone, the BPP forged a transformative partnership with CANDID – Foundation Directory Online, providing unlimited access to the global foundation directory for its member network. This groundbreaking initiative aims to facilitate increased financial support from grantmaking foundations worldwide to organizations in Mexico, thereby fostering greater collaboration and impact in addressing pressing societal issues.
The BPP takes pride in its commitment to financial stewardship, ensuring that 86 cents of every dollar raised are dedicated to programs benefiting the organizations and communities it serves. This unwavering dedication underscores the BPP’s integrity and effectiveness in driving positive change across the border region.
This year, Andy Carey, the Executive Director of the US-Mexico Border Philanthropy Partnership (BPP), participated in a strategic retreat in San Antonio alongside La Prensa Texas board to plan for the year 2024.The retreat focused on charting a course for the newspaper’s new non-profit status, with active participation from board members. This initiative highlights the BPP’s dedication to supporting media organizations in navigating strategic transitions and maximizing their impact within the community.
As an active and engaged member organization, the BPP remains committed to advocating for stronger bilateral relations between the United States and Mexico. By amplifying the voices and experiences of Borderlanders, the BPP seeks to shape policies that reflect the realities and aspirations of communities on both sides of the border, ultimately fostering a more prosperous and harmonious future for all.
