Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy Receives $1.15 Million Grant for Preservation and Program Expansion

Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy (FQBL) has received a $1.15 million grant from the Mellon Foundation to preserve its historic headquarters and enhance its long-term capacity to steward the site. The three-year grant, running from July 2026 to June 2029, represents a significant investment in both the preservation of the building and the organization's future sustainability.

Founded in 1966, the Freedom Quilting Bee was a national quilting cooperative that provided economic opportunities for Black women in rural Alabama. The cooperative generated income for families while preserving artistic traditions and advancing economic justice during the Civil Rights Movement.

"This investment from the Mellon Foundation is a powerful affirmation of the national significance of the Freedom Quilting Bee story," said Kim V. Kelly, Executive Director of Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy. The funding will support critical upgrades to the historic structure, including modernization of building systems and accessibility enhancements, while preserving its historical character.

The grant will also strengthen the organization's capacity by funding the hiring of a Development Director. This new role will enhance fundraising efforts and donor engagement, aiming to secure the organization's long-term financial stability. Previous support for the adaptive reuse project has come from partners including the Alabama State Council on the Arts and the Daniel Foundation of Alabama.

By the end of the grant period in 2029, FQBL aims to have advanced the preservation of the landmark and established stronger organizational systems to support expanded exhibitions, educational initiatives, artist residencies, and community programming.