Gus Heard-Hughes is Vice President, Programs for the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham. He leads the Programs Team’s work on competitive grants, special RFPs and initiatives. Gus serves as point for the Community Foundation’s mental health initiative, coordinating strategic partnerships to expand mental health services in the region. He is also involved in initiatives focused on regional cooperation, microtransit, and economic opportunity for all. In his previous role as Senior Program Officer, Gus managed the Foundation’s tornado recovery initiative, which provided nearly $4 million in grants to help over 700 families return to safe, secure homes. Gus is the lead contact for grant making and partnerships around the Foundation’s regional cooperation and thriving communities priorities.

Before coming to the Community Foundation, Gus served as a Senior Field Coordinator with Heifer International. Gus holds a BA in Sustainable Food Systems from Hampshire College and a MSW in Social Policy and Administration from Florida State University.