Tacoma, WA – [June 24, 2025] — Making A Difference Foundation (MADF) is proud to announce it has received a $15,000 grant from The Bamford Foundation to support its Rising Higher Workforce Training and Reintegration Program. This generous funding will help remove critical financial barriers for individuals seeking to reenter the workforce by covering essential program costs, safety equipment, and hands-on job training.

The Rising Higher program is a comprehensive workforce development initiative designed to help individuals—especially those facing barriers to employment, such as those who have had previous interactions with the corrections system—develop in-demand skills for careers in warehouse operations, food distribution, and logistics. Participants receive practical training, mentorship, and job readiness resources to position them for long-term employment and personal stability.

The Bamford Foundation’s grant will be used to purchase essential safety gear such as steel-toe boots and work gloves, as well as cover other operating expenses, including training materials and program supplies. This support ensures that participants can fully engage in training without the burden of out-of-pocket costs for the tools they need to succeed.

“Our Rising Higher program is about more than just job training—it’s about empowerment, dignity, and creating a pathway to sustainable employment,” said Ahndrea Blue, President and CEO of Making A Difference Foundation. “We are incredibly grateful to The Bamford Foundation for believing in this mission and investing in the futures of the people we serve.”

Founded in 2003, Making A Difference Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Tacoma, Washington, dedicated to nourishing the mind, body, and spirit of individuals and families in need. MADF operates several community-based programs including Eloise’s Cooking Pot Food Bank, a housing program for veterans, and multiple outreach initiatives supporting education, food security, and economic stability.

The Bamford Foundation “was established in 1990 by Calvin D. Bamford, Jr. and Joanne Bamford with the intent of supporting their home community of Tacoma, Washington. As long-time President of Globe Machine Manufacturing Company, founded in 1917 and located on Tacoma’s tide-flats, Calvin has demonstrated his commitment to give back to the Tacoma community through this foundation and through his membership on boards and in a variety of community organizations. Likewise, Joanne, having moved to the area in 1967 when she married Cal, has led a number of boards and has worked with many charitable organizations in the areas of education, human services and the arts, in order to improve the quality of life of families in Tacoma. The Bamford Foundation embodies the values that Joanne and Calvin instilled in their children and hope to instill in future generations. These values include the importance of family, life-long education, involvement in one’s community, and generosity.”

This grant marks a significant step forward in Making A Difference Foundation’s mission to uplift vulnerable populations and create stronger, more resilient communities through education and employment.

 

For media inquiries, please contact:
Ahndrea Blue
President/CEO
Making A Difference Foundation
Phone: 253-212-2778
Email: ahndrea@themadfseattle.org
Website: www.themadf.org