About Us
Mission
The Bloom Foundation, also known as B.L.O.O.M.—Bringing Love, Opportunities, and Outreach to Many—is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to charitable and educational purposes. As the scholarship arm of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated Gamma Psi Zeta Chapter, our mission is to empower future generations by awarding scholarships to deserving high school students pursuing higher education and to foster public interest in enhancing educational opportunities in the Greater Temple area.
Exectuive Board
LaVanda Bailey, Chair
Dedra Brown, V ice Chair
Nicole Nix, Secretary
Zoe Grant, Treasurer
Goals
Scholarships
Award scholarship(s) to worthy high school student(s) in the pursuit of higher education;
Education Improvements
Promote public interest in the general improvement of the education of Greater Temple area. In an effort to initiate, plan, direct and coordinate programs of educational and vocational improvements for the community and schools;
Improve Quality of Life
Develop and implement the BLOOM Foundation, Inc. goals and to study and develop plans for improving the quality of life to the Greater Temple area;
Community Partnerships
Advise and coordinate plans with other agencies of the City, State and other charitable organizations that share the same vision of impacting the community in a positive manner.
Programming
1. BLOOM Scholarship Program
2. Teacher Support and
3. Community Education Forums
4. BLOOM STEAM Initiative
5. Quality of Life Enhancement Program
6. Community Partnership Network
7. Annual BLOOM Education Gala
8. Community Health and Wellness Initiative
Join Us
2025 Educational Heroes Gala
We are excited to announce the 2025 Education Heroes Gala! This year’s theme, "Growing the Future: Celebrating the Seeds of Knowledge," reflects our commitment to honoring education and its transformative power. This special event pays tribute to the legacy of Lydia Francis Gaines, a true icon in education.
Education Hero Award
The Lydia Gaines Temple Educational Hero Award
The Lydia Gaines Temple Education Hero Award is a prestigious honor created to celebrate and recognize individuals who embody the values and legacy of Lydia Francis Gaines. This award pays tribute to Lydia’s extraordinary contributions to education, her unwavering commitment to the Temple community, and her tireless dedication to foster
The Lydia Gaines Temple Education Hero Award is a prestigious honor created to celebrate and recognize individuals who embody the values and legacy of Lydia Francis Gaines. This award pays tribute to Lydia’s extraordinary contributions to education, her unwavering commitment to the Temple community, and her tireless dedication to fostering excellence in learning and service.
Lydia Gaines was a pillar of the Temple Independent School District and the broader community. As an educator, administrator, and mentor, she shaped countless lives through her passion for teaching, leadership, and advocacy. Her journey, from elementary school teacher to Director of Recruiting, demonstrated her relentless pursuit of educational excellence and her ability to inspire both students and colleagues.
The Lydia Gaines Temple Education Hero Award celebrates individuals who exemplify her qualities: a deep dedication to education, a servant’s heart, a commitment to fostering opportunities for others, and an enduring impact on their community. This award honors those who, like Lydia, go above and beyond in their mission to enrich lives and empower the next generation.
By awarding the Lydia Gaines Temple Education Hero Award, we carry forward her remarkable legacy and is a tribute to our mission of Bringing Love, Opportunities, and Outreach to Many.
Lydia Francis Gaines
Lydia Francis Gaines attended a Temple public schools, graduating from Temple High School in 1975. Lydia continued her education at the University of Mary-Hardin Baylor where she obtained a Bachelor's degree in May of 1979 in Elementary Education and a Masters of Education in May of 1984. In May of 1993, Lydia obtained her second Master’s Degree in Educational Administration.
recipient JoMeka gray
recipient JoMeka gray
JoMeka Gray, a kindergarten teacher at Kennedy-Powell Elementary, has earned the prestigious honor of Education Service Area Region 12's 2025 Elementary Teacher of the Year and a regional nominee for Texas Elementary Teacher of the Year!
Honor Where Honor Is Due
Join our cause in education and service
Support the BLOOM Foundation and Empower Our Community!
At the BLOOM Foundation—Bringing Love, Opportunities, and Outreach to Many—we are committed to transforming lives in the Greater Temple area. Through scholarships for deserving high school students, educational improvement programs, and partnerships that uplift our community, we strive to create a brighter future for all.
Your donation helps us:
- Award scholarships to students pursuing higher education.
- Provide resources and training to improve local schools.
- Host workshops and programs that inspire lifelong learning.
- Partner with organizations to enhance the quality of life in our community.
Every contribution, big or small, makes an impact. Join us in shaping the future of education, opportunity, and success.
Donate today and help BLOOM bring hope and growth to our community!
Ways to Donate
Mailing Address:
BLOOM Foundation, Inc.
1610 S 31st Street, #102-319
Temple, Texas 76504
Cash App:
$bloomfoundation
Natasha Wilson, Treasurer
PayPal and Credit Card:
