Affinity Groups
Collaborating for Community-Led Policy Solutions
Our Affinity Groups are dedicated to advancing learning, collaboration, and funding around Mississippi’s most pressing policy issues. Each group brings together community-based nonprofits and philanthropic organizations to identify service gaps, shape effective programs, and drive systemic change that improves outcomes for children, families, and communities.
Current focus areas include education, health, workforce development and family economic security, and the Community Foundation Network. Through these groups—and in partnership with the private sector—the Alliance develops strategies that help inform policy decisions at both the state and federal levels.
Education
We believe education has a three-fold purpose of preparing students for adult life:
1 Prepare them for the world of work and participation in our economy (to be able to find meaningful and fulfilling work that “pays the bills” and allows them to live independently).
2 Prepare them for effective citizenship and participation in our democratic processes and civil society.
3 Become life-long learners, skilled at critical thinking, problem solving.
Health
We believe every Mississippian can achieve a life of health and well-being by having access to quality healthcare and resources that fill the gap in health disparities. By building and advancing partnerships, we can identify health challenges and create solutions to create a healthier state for future generations.
Workforce
We believe every Mississippian can achieve family economic success thru access to good jobs and living wages, work support, thriving businesses, savings, and enough wealth to pass on to future generations resulting in economic mobility.
Need more information?
Contact Cynthia Hines, Chief Program Officer, at cynthia.hines@alliancems.org.