Each year a committee from Wells Memorial United Methodist Church reviews applications for WellsFest help. The committee looks at the scope of services provided by the applicants and the potential budgetary impact of a WellsFest contribution. The general goal has been to direct WellsFest help to smaller non-profit organizations that don’t have major fundraising capabilities.
In recent years the festival has raised an average of $50,000 for the designated beneficiary. It also generates publicity that helps make the Jackson community better aware of the organization. WellsFest beneficiaries have included:
- Sims House for Women and Children
- Galloway Elementary School
- Habitat for Humanity Mississippi Capital Area
- Alzheimer’s Association
- Whispering Pines Hospice
- The Bethlehem Center
- Operation Shoestring
- Magnolia Speech School
- Southern Christian Services for Children and Youth
- The Mustard Seed
- Grace House
- Good Samaritan Center
- Common Bond
- Harbor House
- Partners to End Homelessness
- The Center for Violence Prevention
- Methodist Children's Homes of Mississippi
- Growing Up Knowing
- Extra Table
Download the WellsFest Beneficiary Application. It must be completed according to the directions in the document and postmarked by November 30 for consideration by the selection committee.