The Claude C. Thornton Foundation March eNews
- CCTF Board
- 6 days ago
- 8 min read
Happy Women History Month🤎,
This month we celebrate the strength and brilliance of the women who came before us , paved the way and made it possible for us to endure, persevere and lead. Their courage continues to inspire the work we do today and reminds us that progress is built through collective actions and unwavering commitment.
This month we are proud to highlight another successful Blossom Blooming Brunch held on February 22. The gathering was indeed intimate and meaningful where our Blossom expressed gratitude and paid homage to the women who have guided, mentored, and supported their journeys. Moments like this remind us the power and impact of community, mentorship and honoring the shoulder we stand on.
We are also excited to share several resources this month that you can use or distribute within your communities as we continue building pathways for growth, opportunity, and collective impact.
Thank you for always being a part of the CCTF community.
With love and gratitude,
The CCTF Team
Highlights
We hosted our Blossoms Blooming Brunch on February 22nd, and it was nothing short of amazing. We laughed, cried, shared stories, and celebrated with a toast to growth, sisterhood, and the journeys that brought us together. 🌸
Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the day so special. Follow us on Instagram @blossomsbloomingbrunch to see highlights from the brunch and stay connected with future events.
NEEED Picture
On February 20th, Coppin State University hosted the 2026 Commitment to Excellence Awards. Among the honorees was our very own Clarinet Scholarship, which honors Renée Clarinet Thornton, a pioneer who dedicated 40 years to Baltimore City Public Schools after graduating from Coppin State in 1972. Renée was a science teacher and special educator who championed inquiry, advocacy, and access to quality education.
Her legacy continues through her daughter Autrese Thornton, CFO and Co-Founder, and her granddaughter Cari Harris, CEO and Founder of the Claud C. Thornton Foundation. Together, they continue to foster exploratory learning and educational empowerment across Baltimore City.
The Claude C. Thornton Foundation has partnered with Coppin State University for the next five years to award $50,000 in scholarships to students in financial need. Our foundation’s commitment is $25,000, and we invite you to support our goal of raising the remaining $25,000 over the next five years to continue uplifting excellence in Baltimore communities.
Upcoming Events
Lobby Day Sign-Up – Marylanders for Data Center Reform
Join Marylanders for Data Center Reform on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, from 10 AM–4 PM in Annapolis to meet your state delegate and senator. Advocate with fellow supporters for smarter, sustainable data center development in Maryland no prior experience needed.
Maryland Climate Tech+ 2026
Our Founder and CEO Cari Harris will be speaking at Maryland Climate Tech+ 2026, a powerful event focused on the connection between housing, climate resilience, and public health.
This hybrid gathering brings together leaders, innovators, and community advocates working toward healthier, climate-resilient homes across Maryland.
Join the conversation and be part of the solution.
Lillie May Carrol Jackson Career Day 2026 is Weeks Away!
Greetings from LMCJ!
We are about a month and a half away from our annual Career Day -- will you be there?
Each year, we create a space where people who are passionate about what they do get to share that excitement and wisdom with our girls. Already, our scholars are shaping up to be academics, athletes, artists, entrepreneurs and so much more. We'd love for you to meet them and for them to learn from you.
This year, Career Day is on March 25, 2026 from 8:30-10:30am. Start the day with a keynote speaker and then split into career clusters to share more about your profession. You'll have the opportunity to:
Share your story—how you got to where you are today.
Offer advice and encouragement to the next generation of leaders.
Answer questions and spark curiosity about your field.
Your words could light a spark in a young girl’s future and open doors she never imagined. If you’ve ever wanted to give back, inspire, and uplift, this is your chance!
If you’re interested, please register here, and fill out the career cluster survey so we can place you appropriately. Feel free to share widely so that we can fill our spaces with inspiring people who are invested in the next generation!
Thank you in advance and we can't wait to host you!
Resources
Blossoms Blooming Mentorship Program
This video is just a glimpse into our annual Blossoms Brunch award ceremony, where we collectively honor community mentors who have poured into our professional, personal, and emotional growth.
The Blossoms Blooming Mentorship Program empowers young women to reach their full potential through academic and professional mentorship and etiquette training. Last year we launched our group mentoring experience, grounded in discussion topics such as mindset, relationships and partnerships, career mobility, professional opportunities, femininity and more.
We have our annual brunch coming up on February 22 so stay tuned for updates. If you would like to learn more about this mentorship program, please click this link to inquire. To keep up to date with Blossoms Blooming follow us on Instagram and/or contact us via email at cari@thecctfoundation.org for any questions or concerns.
Did you know we offer parent coaching?
Parents play an important role in helping their children succeed in school. Parent advocacy means speaking up for your child’s needs and rights. This school year, commit to staying involved and supporting your child every step of the way. In addition to building routine, education planning and prioritizing extracurriculars:
Celebrate Small Accomplishments
Let your child know when they are doing a good job. Whether it’s completing homework, helping at home, learning something new, or showing kindness, praise helps children feel proud and motivated to keep trying.
Listen with Care and Patience
Children are still learning how to express their feelings and make decisions. Sometimes they won’t get things right. When they talk, listen with an open heart and calm voice. Try not to interrupt, yell, or get upset. Let them know they can come to you for help, even when things are hard to talk about.
Wishing everyone a positive, peaceful, and productive start to the school year. You’ve got this! If you would like to schedule a free coaching session with us, please use this link to schedule a session.
Parents, We’re Here for YOU!
From navigating the school system to supporting your child’s mental health and behavior, parenting comes with a lot of challenges and you don’t have to do it alone.
Led by Autrese Thornton, a multi-decade special educator, school administrator, and nonprofit manager, The Claude C. Thornton Foundation’s Parent Advocacy & Coaching Program is here to listen, guide, and empower you with the tools and resources you need.
Tell us: What areas of education, mental health, or behavior do you need the most support with?
Email us at athornton@thecctfoundation.org
Sustain Our Future Foundation has received a Maryland Energy Administration grant to offer free electric HVAC systems and insulation upgrades to low- and moderate-income homeowners. The program provides an energy-efficient heat pump, weatherization improvements such as insulation and draft sealing, and comprehensive health and safety testing for hazards like carbon monoxide, gas leaks, mold, and asbestos.
Regulate your nervous system this summer with Kellan!
Kellan is more than a Parent Coach she supports Black mothers who feel stuck in survival mode, carrying the invisible weight of overwhelm, self-doubt, and emotional labor.
This 8-week program is designed to help mamas reset, regulate, and reclaim their peace.
Have questions? Email Kellan directly!
Job Opportunities
As part of our commitment to economically supporting our community, we are excited to share these job opportunities with our network. We hope these workforce resources help you strengthen your friends, families and neighborhoods.
Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year are now open for students pursuing a program leading to a Maryland professional teacher’s certificate and who plan to teach in a Maryland public school or pre-K program, particularly in high-needs or shortage areas. Both full-time and part-time students may apply, and there are no Maryland residency, GPA, GRE, or SAT requirements.
Application Timeline:
Opens: January 15, 2026
Closes: April 1, 2026
Review: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Travel Occupational Therapist
AHS Staffing is seeking a Travel Occupational Therapist in Sykesville, Maryland, offering $1,829 per week. This 12-week assignment includes 40 hours per week with 8-hour day shifts in a skilled nursing facility setting.
AHS Staffing provides competitive pay, comprehensive medical coverage, 401(k) matching, licensure reimbursement, weekly pay, and dedicated recruiter support to ensure a smooth and rewarding travel experience.
Looking for more opportunities?
Explore more openings across the state at your convenience. Visit Maryland Jobs Quick Search to see which industries are currently hiring and discover positions that match your skills and interests.
Grant Opportunities
As part of our commitment to economically supporting our community, we are excited to share these grant opportunities with our network. We hope these resources help you access funding, grow your projects, and strengthen the impact of your work.
The Rita Allen Foundation supports innovative work in biomedical research, civic science, and philanthropic exploration through programs such as the Rita Allen Foundation Scholars Program and the Scholars Award in Pain. Funding opportunities are typically offered through institution-nominated programs or periodically announced open LOI processes. For questions about eligibility or applications, contact ritaallenscholars@ritaallen.org
The Foundation Grants Maryland website provides a centralized hub of diverse grant opportunities available to individuals, nonprofits, and community organizations across the state.
The Community Foundation offers a variety of grant programs designed to achieve specific goals within the community. Some opportunities reflect the charitable vision of local donors and Community Partners, while others are intended to spark new ideas and engage new audiences to drive community change. Click the link below to learn more about each grant’s timeline, deadlines, eligibility, and examples of previously funded projects.
Applications reviewed on a rolling basis
The Courage Project celebrates everyday courage in America by honoring individuals and organizations who uplift our communities and strengthen our shared future. This initiative recognizes those whose actions reflect the foundational values of our nation and inspire others to stand for what matters.
The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, established in 1966, is dedicated to promoting the well-being of humanity through long-term grantmaking and innovative, time-limited initiatives. The Foundation supports a wide range of program areas, many of which have been central to its mission for decades. To learn more about what they fund, click the link above for detailed information on their programs and priorities.
The Civic Participation Program strengthens democracy by supporting year-round efforts that encourage active engagement in civic life. This initiative focuses on on-the-ground organizing that empowers communities to participate fully beyond election-season activities. Please note that the program does not fund academic research, technology development, book projects, individual fellowships, or conferences unrelated to direct civic organizing.
Volunteer & Community Support Opportunities
Volunteer with the Maryland Food Bank
Volunteering with the Maryland Food Bank is a meaningful way to show up for your neighbors and make a real difference. By giving a few hours of your time whether sorting food, packing boxes, or helping with distribution you help ensure families have access to the nourishment they need. Every act of service matters, and your kindness helps strengthen our community, one meal at a time.
Please consider a donation of any amount: $10, $20, etc. to the June Byrd Brown Legacy Grant in support of qualifying African American students at my alma mater, Calvert Hall.
As you may be aware, CCTF has supported the Darryl r. Perry Foundation, which has partnered with Calvert Hall the past several years for the annual summer basket ball tournament, which also serves as a school supplies drive.
Darry R. Perry, the founder of DPR Foundation, considers serving on the fundraising committee for this grant as another way of paying it forward to youth who come from similar backgrounds and can greatly benefit from financial aid to attend this private school.
Thank you for your consideration.
Comments