Telling Our Story: Preserving History, Building Community
2026 Fundraising Campaign for Hope Community
The Anna T. Jeanes School Restoration Project
We are excited to launch our 2026 Fundraising Campaign: Telling Our Story – Preserving History, Building Community.
Our goal is to raise $250,000 to fund Phase 1 of the historic Anna T. Jeanes (ATJ) school renovation and to secure the continued daily operations of Hope Community.
For generations, this property served as a sanctuary built on faith, sacrifice, and the unwavering commitment of local families. Named for the Quaker philanthropist who supported Black education, ATJ was far more than a school during segregation. It was a tight-knit community gathering place where teachers, parents, and neighbors worked alongside one another. We now have the opportunity to reclaim this space and restore access to our community.
Your financial contribution will enable us to :
- Replace roof and ceiling insulation
- Paint building exterior, replace windows, and construct ADA compliant ramp
- Install HVAC system
Once renovations are complete, the Anna T. Jeanes School will become a vibrant community center. Our plans for the space include:
- Gathering Hall with a Stage
- Versatile Meeting Spaces
- Hope Community Offices
- A Dedicated African-American History Exhibits
Throughout the building, there will be dedicated displays to honor the historical contributions of Anna T. Jeanes School and the Houstonville Community.
Thank you for helping us tell this important story. Together, we are preserving history and building relationships.
With gratitude,
The Hope Community Team
Invest in History. Empower Our Future.
Your tax-deductible contribution directly protects local history and expands vital community outreach. You can make your contribution below through our secure donation platform or mail a check to our mailing address at the bottom of this page.
About Hope Community:
Hope Community is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Fairhope, Alabama, dedicated to nurturing unity and relationships through food, healing, and education. By revitalizing the historic Anna T. Jeanes School (ATJ) property, the organization is creating a vital hub that combines a teaching farm, community gardens, and educational facilities to address local food insecurity and foster cultural enrichment. Through these efforts, Hope Community preserves the rich African American history of Baldwin County while actively empowering residents and strengthening the fabric of the local community.
About Anna T. Jeanes School Property:
This property is not just land; it is a cornerstone of Fairhope’s African American history. From its construction in 1908, the Anna T. Jeanes School was a vital institution for the community, providing a source of education and hope during the era of segregation. As one of the few schools in the South for Black children, it was a testament to the resilience and dedication of a community determined to provide a better future for its youth. It served as a place of learning and a hub for community life, a legacy that we are committed to honoring and rebuilding.
