This is an update to our previous coverage regarding Bear the Burden Coalition.
Frederick, MD News (5/31/2024) – Yesterday the Bear the Burden Coalition, Inc. (BTBC) has announced its decision to dissolve the non-profit organization and donate its remaining funds to the Community Foundation of Frederick County. This decision, taken after extensive consultations with stakeholders and community members, marks the end of BTBC’s operations and the beginning of new opportunities for local development in Frederick County.
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The donation, amounting to $37,312.44, will be divided between two significant funds. The first, the FY25 Impact Grant Cycle fund, focuses on economic development programs aimed at enhancing the growth and sustainability of businesses in Frederick County. This fund prioritizes small businesses and organizations offering apprenticeship programs, reflecting BTBC’s original mission to support local enterprises.
The second allocation is to the FY25 Career Education Scholarship Cycle fund, which assists Frederick County students pursuing vocational and technical education or certificate programs. This initiative aims to address staffing challenges faced by small businesses by increasing the pool of qualified candidates.
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Danny Farrar, the founder of BTBC, expressed deep gratitude to all the donors who supported the organization. The closure of BTBC’s bank accounts and official dissolution of the entity is seen as a pivotal step in redirecting resources to areas where they can have a lasting impact on the community.
Brett Hess, who played a crucial role in this initiative, was specifically acknowledged for his leadership and efforts in ensuring a smooth transition. The community is encouraged to view this development as a positive move towards supporting local economic and educational growth.
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BTBC was founded at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to support small businesses in Maryland. The organization quickly garnered community support but also faced scrutiny regarding the allocation of donated funds. According to IRS records, BTBC received less than $50,000 in donations in a single tax year, exempting it from detailed public financial reporting requirements.
In a 2022 update, treasurer Brett Hess outlined the organization’s journey, including legal and bureaucratic challenges that delayed its nonprofit status approval. Despite these hurdles, BTBC continued to advocate for small businesses through legal consultations and community engagements.
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As COVID-19 restrictions eased, BTBC’s activities diminished, leaving surplus funds unutilized. Hess emphasized the organization’s commitment to transparency and equitable distribution of funds. Legal services constituted a significant expenditure, but surplus funds remained for future initiatives.
Expenditures incurred by BTBC were minimal, with a $275 fee paid for IRS non-profit registration, $1,124.56 for PayPal fees on donations, and $12,000 for legal work and presentations by Boyden Gray & Associates. The remaining funds, totaling $37,312.44, were donated to the Community Foundation of Frederick County.
Previously, Danny Farrar addressed concerns from donors regarding the use of remaining funds. He reiterated the funds’ lawful usage for organizational expenses and confirmed plans to collaborate with local partners for fund dispersal. Farrar dismissed accusations of fraud, emphasizing the board’s transparent stewardship and adherence to protocols.
Despite these assurances, some community members remain dissatisfied with BTBC’s effectiveness and the prolonged holding of funds. James Grose, a local advocate, criticized the organization for not utilizing the funds more actively to support struggling businesses.
As BTBC moves forward with its dissolution, the focus shifts to ensuring the donated funds effectively contribute to community development. The Community Foundation of Frederick County is expected to play a pivotal role in managing these resources to benefit local economic and educational initiatives.
Community Foundation of Frederick County could not be reached for comment regarding the donation.
Story by Ken Buckler, President of Radio Free Hub City.
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