Benetta Bellamy
Co-Founder and Vice Chair, Finance and Administration
Benetta Bellamy is the Co-Founder and Vice Chair of Bridgewater Academy, where she provides leadership in finance, administration, grant development, program planning, compliance, and community partnerships. She works with the board and organizational partners to develop sustainable opportunities that support underserved youth and young adults locally and internationally.
With more than 31 years of entrepreneurial and professional experience, Benetta brings a practical understanding of business operations, relationship building, mentorship, and resource development. As Bridgewater Academy’s primary grant writer, she helps align programs with community needs, develop funding strategies, and strengthen the systems required to advance the organization’s mission. She is also advancing her knowledge of artificial intelligence and automation, applying these tools to nonprofit administration, grant development, program planning, and digital literacy initiatives.
Benetta holds a degree in English with an emphasis in Professional Writing from Grand Canyon University and is a member of Alpha Phi. She is also an experienced cosmetologist, swim coach, and lifeguard with professional training through U.S. Masters Swimming, the American Swimming Coaches Association, and the American Red Cross. Her leadership is grounded in faith, service, integrity, and the belief that every young person deserves access to encouragement, education, and meaningful opportunities to succeed.
Funding and Grant Writing Impact
Benetta’s grant writing and fund development work has helped secure at least $431,000 in cash grant awards and private funding, plus $5,000 in equipment support, for Bridgewater Academy and other community organizations.
Funders and partners connected to this work include United Way, a private philanthropic funder, Gatorade, the NC Youth Outdoor Engagement Commission, Social Architects, and Good Sports.
Bridgewater is a 501(C)(3) Non-Profit Organization. Donations are tax-exempt. FEIN: 04-3772096