BCLT Adds Value Through Partnerships

Burlington Community Land Trust continues to progress towards its goal of hiring an Executive Director and implementing its model as of January 2025. One of the keys to success has been the number of partnerships developed with donors, community groups, and other non-profit organizations.

Steve Matthews, the current vice chairperson of the Board of Directors, says developing relationships with a variety of community groups is important. “We have actively participated in the Housing Initiative sponsored by United Way. The Chamber of Commerce has provided opportunities for presentations and their Executive Board toured the Community Garden in Morrow Town. We attended several student presentations at Elon University focused on marketing opportunities. Furthermore, we have had the opportunity to engage with one of the ministerial groups that convenes regularly within the county. These are just a few examples of how we have been making connections and building awareness of our mission and vision for affordable housing in Burlington.”

These partnerships, along with those developed while seeking financial support, have been keys to accomplishing the goals set at the annual retreat in May of 2024. Robert Dowling, retired Executive Director of Community Home Trust in Orange County, has served as a consultant to the BCLT Board of Directors. He believes these partnerships are crucial for the organization’s success. “This is complex work. A volunteer board that is committed, with an experienced executive director, will still need to rely on the support of community partners to reach the level of accomplishment BCLT is aiming to execute.”

He believes fully developing these partnerships will ensure the organization’s success.

In the 24-25 fiscal year, the Hayden-Harman Foundation, Glen Raven Inc., the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, Impact Alamance, the Alamance Community Foundation, United Way, First Bank, Pinnacle Bank, First National Bank, Elon University, Holy Comforter Church, and several individual donors have assisted Burlington Community Land Trust in meeting their initial financial and program goals.  “We’re excited about the future of BCLT,” said Lydia Jones, chairperson of the Morrow Town Community Group. Hopefully, a lot of folks will benefit from our plans to lift our community soon.”