A NNUA L RE P OR T 2 0 2 5
Years of Impact
Community Foundation of Abilene | A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 5
Building on a lasting legacy,
Forever ALWAYS. 1
Confirmed in Compliance with National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations.
T
he number 40 often symbolizes a time of preparation, transformation, and renewal — a turning point before a new phase begins. In 2025, we celebrate such a time. Forty years ago, our founders dedicated themselves to preparing the way for a community foundation in Abilene. They wanted to build confidence within the community that this organization could support Abilene then, and remain adaptable enough to grow and evolve through the decades. In a 10-year anniversary piece entitled “Touching Tomorrow,” Dr. Jess Fletcher wrote, “The most optimistic of the founders’ dreams would not have encompassed results that far-reaching.” In our first decade, we distributed more than $10 million toward charitable causes. Now, 40 years later, that dream has expanded beyond what even our founders could have imagined. Because of the support of our donors and community, we’ve now granted and administered more than $216 million in lifetime grantmaking. These gifts, whether from unrestricted funds, donor-advised funds, scholarships, or awards from one of our competitive grant cycles, have transformed the Foundation into more than just a funding source. We have become an active partner, a convener, and a trusted resource for our community. Dr. Fletcher’s reflection on our early years offered a foundation for the future — a future filled with “life-changing gifts and grants.” While our annual report reflects the past fiscal year, it also pays special tribute to the many moments and milestones in between. Featured in the report is a timeline of our history. A record recognizing the visionaries who, as Dr. Fletcher said, “laid the foundation for touching tomorrow.” At our 2010 annual luncheon, Joe Canon shared a familiar Latin phrase: tempus fugit. Time flees, time flies. How true that is now, after 40 years, and how true it will be as we look ahead to year 50 and beyond. The times will change, but our purpose remains the same: to be here for our donors, for our nonprofits, and for our community — forever and always.
Katie Alford President/CEO
From the board chair... I am honored to serve as the board chair during this important time for the Foundation. When the community has needed support, the Foundation has been there. When disaster impacted our local and rural neighbors, the Foundation was there. The Foundation will continue to be there because of the power of endowment. This year’s theme, forever and always, emphasizes endowment. As we look to the year ahead, possibilities abound. Sam Vinson CFA Board Chair
Production credits: Emerald Cassidy, CFA (copywriting and project management), Zachry+ (design and production), Micah Schmidt (photography).
Community Foundation of Abilene | A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 5
RESPONDING
NEED
to the
$28,828,370 in total grants creating lasting IMPACT for a THRIVING Abilene, endowed FOREVER. Total grants representative of all fund types during Community Foundation of Abilene’s fiscal year, July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025.
OUR MISSION The Community Foundation of Abilene empowers people to make a lasting charitable impact on our community. We connect donors to causes they care about, manage strategic investments to preserve our endowments, make grants that align with donor intent, respond to community needs and provide philanthropic leadership to enhance Abilene’s future, today.
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40 years of Impact 1985 Chartered on April 29, 1985, and in that year on October 18, the Community Foundation of Abilene received its 501(c)(3) status
In the spring of 1985, a small group of Abilene citizens met on the twentieth floor of the city’s tallest structure to consider establishing a community foundation. From this initial vision came the formation of the Community Foundation of Abilene (“CFA”). The key to the Foundation’s initial viability was a single gift of $750,000 from
Mrs. Judy Matthews and the Dodge Jones Foundation. This gift would help support operations and establish the Foundation’s permanent endowment for unrestricted grants. Since our inception, the Foundation has empowered people to make a lasting charitable impact on our community.
2000 A $3M unrestricted gift made to the Foundation; unrestricted assets have since grown to more than $30M
1991
2009 Katie Alford named as new President/CEO after Jones’ 23 years of service
Foundation’s assets grew tenfold from the $750,000 principal gift from Mrs. Judy Matthews and the Dodge Jones Foundation
2002 Friends of CFA established to support operational costs, having contributed more than $1M to the Foundation and educational initiatives
1986 Foundation hires first Foundation President, Nancy E. Jones
1995 Future Fund, a membership-supported endowment fund, established on May 26, 1995, which now has grown to $1M+
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2014 Foundation’s assets reached $100M+
Community Foundation of Abilene | A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 5
2018 Foundation celebrated both $100M+ in grantmaking and the grand opening of a new downtown office building at 850 N 1st Street
2023 Foundation’s assets reached $200M+
2020 Future Fund reached $1M in grantmaking through its membership-supported endowment fund benefiting children and youth causes
2026 Expansion into former Cloud Printing building, adding 15,000-square-feet to existing CFA spaces
2017 CFA raised $468K for 119 nonprofits in its first Abilene Gives, which now raises more than $2M+ annually for nearly 200 nonprofits
2025 2021
2019 A $9M estate gift established the largest unrestricted gift to the Foundation to date
Record $200M+ in cumulative grants since the CFA’s founding
Dr. Paula Windham Fund benefiting initiatives in rural communities established, making inaugural grants totaling nearly $300K the following year
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Top: Foundation board members meeting at the Petroleum Club in 1989. Joe Canon with the Dodge Jones Foundation served as chair. Middle LEFT: On May 18, 2019, a tornado damaged more than 400 properties in Abilene. The Foundation and United Way partnered to raise and deploy money for immediate relief needs and long-term rebuilding projects. More than $590K raised serving 153 families. Middle Right: The Foundation held a press conference on December 11, 1985, announcing the gift from Mrs. Matthews and the Dodge Jones Foundation. Joe Canon, director of the foundation, was also a founding CFA board member (Abilene Reporter-News). Right: Past and present Foundation trustees at the 2005 Annual Luncheon. To see a full listing, refer to the board page at the end of this report.
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Community Foundation of Abilene | A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 5
FOREver and Always
O
ur story has always been written by people — generous donors, committed board members, and passionate staff — each one leaving their mark on the legacy we honor in this 40th year.
From the very beginning, our founders imagined a foundation that would serve this community forever and always — an enduring source of generosity and care for generations to come.
Thus, in 1985, the Community Foundation of Abilene was born. Mrs. Matthews seeded the Foundation with a $750,000 gift from the Dodge Jones Foundation — a gift that has gone on to impact community needs for 40 years and counting. sweeter fruit each season. This is a lasting legacy for which the community is grateful.”
In the early 1980s, several community leaders began to envision a place where people would come together to build our community through grantmaking and leadership.
The Foundation grew stronger thanks to the good work of local and rural nonprofits and donors who stewarded assets accrued during their lifetimes.
Larry Gill, one of those community leaders, shared his hope and vision: that the Foundation “would sow the seeds for the initiative, the enhancement, and the expansion of philanthropy in our community through a unique gateway into grantmaking.”
During the tough years of the multiple economic downturns, the Community Foundation stayed the course — remaining fully invested, diversified, and committed to serving our neighbors.
Our inception is credited to the Dodge Jones Foundation and Mrs. Judy Matthews. She did much more than bolster community institutions during her time with us; Mrs. Matthews also had a long-term vision for endowed philanthropy to support local causes for generations to come. Thus, in 1985, the Community Foundation of Abilene was born. Mrs. Matthews seeded the Foundation with a $750,000 gift from the Dodge Jones Foundation — a gift that has gone on to impact community needs for 40 years and counting. An editorial writer with the Abilene ReporterNews noted in 1988: “The Foundation is the culmination of the vision and energy of people who care deeply about the future of this community. They have planted a vineyard, which, as its roots grow stronger, bears more and
Our founders understood that times would come when an organization would need to navigate hardship and uncertainty. Our region has seen tornadoes, fires, and floods. We felt how the pandemic impacted small businesses and nonprofit resources. Through it all, our mission was on full display, providing meaningful support when our community needed it most. (1918-2016) Julia (Judy) Matthews was the eldest daughter of Percy and Ruth Legett Jones, pioneer Abilenians who were early day leaders in the business, cultural and education endeavors of the community. Her gracious spirit and her generous heart worked powerful and positive changes among legions throughout this community and beyond.
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LEFT: VFDs respond to the Mesquite Heat wildfires during 2022. All donations to the Big Country Fire Relief Fund at the Foundation, totaling nearly $530K, were awarded as grants to organizations directly supporting victims’ needs and relief efforts (Trent VFD). Middle LEFT: In 2025, nonprofits gather at Abilene Christian University’s Wildcat Stadium to kick off the the giving day, Abilene Gives. Donors, sponsors and friends join the community celebration. Middle Right: In 2019, open forums were held at various community locations. These convenings identified ThriveABI’s key cause areas. Working groups and volunteers continue to meet, identifying opportunities to enhance our community’s key issues. Bottom: Museum of the West Texas Frontier in Stamford, Texas, received funding from the first grant distribution of the Dr. Paula Windham Fund for Education and Community Development in 2022. The award supported the Museum’s operations and programming.
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Community Foundation of Abilene | A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 5
I
n 1990, Peggy Beckham asked a question that still guides us today: “How can the Community Foundation of Abilene make a difference?” More questions and new ideas followed.
What could happen if the entire community had 24 hours to give where they lived? Since 2017, Abilene Gives has raised more than $14 million for nearly 200 nonprofits. With nearly 4,000 donors each year, Abilene Gives enables people who love their community to easily give back. Could there be an outdoor concert series whose proceeds benefit grantmaking? Across eight years, the Open Road Concert Series hosted 29 shows. Proceeds benefited Future Fund, an endowment providing funding to local organizations serving children and youth. Together, these efforts have provided $184,000 in grants to children and youth causes. How could we drive progress toward a shared community vision?
“When we build, let us think that we build forever. Let it not be for present delight nor for present use alone; Let it be such work as our descendants shall thank us for; And let us think, as we lay stone on stone… that some will say, ‘See! This our fathers did for us.’” — John Ruskin (1819–1900) It’s said that the greatest use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it. Our founders did just that — building something to serve beyond what we will ever see or know. Forty years later, we stand on that foundation — grateful for the past, inspired by the present, and committed to the future… forever and always.
Learn more about the Foundation’s history! At the 2025 Annual Luncheon, local historian Jay Moore delivered a presentation. Scan the QR code to watch the video on the Foundation’s YouTube channel.
Today, volunteers — comprising nonprofit professionals, civic leaders, and businesses — identify opportunities through ThriveABI, an initiative enhancing care for our neighbors by measuring progress across cause areas. How could we extend our support to nonprofits in our rural communities? The Foundation’s rural grantmaking initiative stretches across West-Central Texas, a 150-mile radius of Oplin, Texas to be exact. Made possible through Dr. Paula A. Windham, her generous fund addresses issues and improves the quality of life in rural communities. There have been many dreams, desires, and ideas throughout our history. Many rooted in providing for the next generation.
Open Road Founders, Taylor Sturgis and Sam Vinson, present a check to Abilene Heritage Square with funds raised from the concert series.
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BuildinG ON Legacy
I
n 2020, we purchased the adjacent Cloud Printing building, envisioning its transformation into a dynamic nonprofit meeting center and office space for the Foundation. Additionally, the building allows the Foundation to expand our team and enhance our support to donors and nonprofit organizations. Progress has been made on the building project over the last year, making real a dream that first took shape in 1985. On August 19, 2025, the Foundation hosted a building dedication. A time where donors and friends could join in prayer and offer written blessings. “Father, may you bless this building with success. Bless those who enter with wisdom and understanding as they serve those in need.” – Steve Collins “Blessed be this building!” – Julie Wilson “May this be a place of ideation, collaboration, and blessing to all who
enter and the greater Abilene community.” – Mary Ross “In HIS name for the service of others.” – Jeff Blanks These words, along with the others written on the iconic “Abilene” bricks, now surround this special place. At the center: education, philanthropy, and impact. The $4.3 million project will breathe new life into this 15,000-square-foot historic building. The renovated space will feature meeting rooms, training facilities, and collaborative workspaces. Construction is anticipated to be completed by summer 2026. For updates on the project, visit cfabilene.org/cloud.
Friends of CFA members – Gay Beitscher, Tammy Briscoe, Gayle Gray, and Nancy Brock – write their dedications.
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Foundation staff survey the progress of the building expansion. Weatherl & Associates is providing the architectural services for the project, while The Crowe Group is handling the demolition and renovation of the building. Katie Alford, CFA President/CEO, and longtime CFA friends, Scott Senter and Steve Senter, outside of the Cloud Printing building.
Community Foundation of Abilene | A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 5
LEgacy Society In 1996, the Foundation created the Legacy Society to recognize the philanthropic options offered through estate planning. The Foundation can help – alongside your attorney, financial advisor, or CPA – to create charitable giving strategies aligned with your charitable intentions as well as your estate planning and financial goals. Leaving funds to establish an endowment fund translates to a lasting source of grants for the charitable causes that matter to the donor. If you have already named the Foundation as a beneficiary in your will, qualified retirement plan, life insurance policy, trusts, or pooled life income funds, please contact the Foundation so we can appropriately recognize you and ensure that your wishes are met.
Contact President/CEO Katie Alford at 325-676-3883 or cfa@cfabilene.org to start planning your legacy.
Jimmy Tittle joined the Legacy Society as a charter member in 1996. These donors, including Jimmy, have entrusted the Foundation with the management of their gifts. In doing so, they advance a shared vision of building permanent charitable resources through planned gifts.
IN MEMORIAM James D. (“Jimmy”) Tittle passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025, at the age of 97. Jimmy set out to bring great architecture to Abilene, saying early on, “You can’t make a living if you’re not drawing lines on paper.” Jimmy also helped to advance local nonprofits like the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council, The Grace Museum, and many others. He promoted and served Abilene through his service to these organizations. Jimmy served as a trustee of the Foundation. We’re honored to carry out his legacy through his estate gift that supports the nonprofits he designated. His impact is forever and always.
LEGACY SOCIETY MEMBERS Steve Abel Katie and Jason Alford Ann Bridwell Nancy Brock Katie and Cade Browning Caroline Cammack Kelly and Paul Cannon Jo and Joe Canon Carl Childers Tom Choate Joy Churchill * Cay and Steve Collins Kenneth Conrad Mary and Vance Cooksey
Jackie and Bart Cox * Jana and Joe Crawford Lynn and Bud Darby Kay Denkhoff Rudith Drennan Linda and Glenn Files * Doug Ford Loretta Fulton Mary and Larry Gill * Ann and Jack Griggs Callie and Lee Hampton Brooke and Robert Hanna Patricia Hernandez Pat and Delbert Hess Becca and Scott Hibbs
Marilyn Jacobs Myra and Paul Johnson Nancy and Ross Jones* Jane Jones Saranne and Benny Judkins Tommye Ann Leitner Rozlyn and Jerry Love * Gloria McDaniel Kathy and Phil Morehead * Michelle and Ryan Parrish John Pearson Cynthia Pearson Wanda Ragsdale
Perry Reeves Becky and Jack Rentz Karen and Jack Rich Barbara and Ron Richert Michelle and Scott Senter Debbie and Steve Senter Rhonda Shahan Nita Slaton Donniece Smith Eddy Smith Sug Springer Angela Nicolini and Michael Bob Starr Jamie Villegas Courtney Vletas Kathy and Jim Webster *
Linda White Larry Wolz Joni and Bill Wood Bill Wright * Traci and Tim Yandell * 1996 Charter Members
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Asset Growth 1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
$40,132,138
$33,416,781
1997
$35,003,658
1996
$34,588,741
1995
$32,102,939
1994
$25,572,296
1993
$20,709,203
1992
$17,509,989
1991
$13,120,328
1990
$10,217,567
$6,343,081
1989
$8,995,236
$5,041,679
1988
$8,787,551
$3,296,135
1987
$8,152,248
$1,780,352
1986
$7,475,198
$798,352
1985
Asset Total
$750,000
In the 1995 annual report, CFA executive director Nancy E. Jones believed the Foundation would reach $15 million in assets by 2000 and $30 million by 2010. Nancy’s vision would be realized, but only much sooner. The $30 million milestone was reached in 2000, providing greater stability to the vital organizations the Foundation supports.
2004
Fiscal Year End
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION JUNE 30, 2025 (with comparative totals for 2024)
JUNE 30, 2025
JUNE 30, 2024
Assets Cash and Cash Equivalents Contributions Receivable Investments Cash Value of Life Insurance Fixed Assets Other Assets
$
10,118,465 268,127 205,015,556 1,468,499 2,727,547 36,127
$
24,913,032 253,997 175,557,875 1,269,002 2,469,118 39,466
Total Assets
$
219,634,321
$
204,502,490
$
37,904 137,098 31,511,094
$
11,120 4,550 28,920,851
$
31,686,096
$
28,936,521
Net Assets Fund Balance
$
187,948,225
$
175,565,969
Net Assets
$
187,948,225
$
175,565,969
$
219,634,321
$
204,502,490
Liabilities Accounts Payable Grants Payable Funds Held as Agency Endowments Total Liabilities
Total Liabilities & Fund Balances
AUDIT The Foundation annually engages the services of an independent accounting firm to perform an audit of the Foundation’s Financial Statements. As part of its audit, the firm also reviews the internal controls and various policies and procedures to ensure the Foundation staff is adhering to the most current accounting practices. The Foundation’s auditor, Condley and Company, LLP, Certified Public Accountants. Audits and the IRS Form 990s are available upon request. Note: This is a preliminary financial statement that the Foundation Board has not yet approved at the time of print.
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$138,820,729
2019
2020
$219,634,321*
$204,502,490
$185,743,314
$173,816,740
*This is a preliminary figure prior to FY25 audit adjustments.
$138,167,747
2016
$127,903,817
2015
Foundation moves to N 1st location.
2014
$115,237,170
2013
$102,898,277
2012
$106,000,037
$70,145,582
2011
2010
$102,949,801
2009
$89,839,830
2008
$63,562,218
$76,421,965
$72,567,674 2007
$80,123,372
2006
$85,130,388
2005
$62,295,702
$44,044,934
$180,439,935
Community Foundation of Abilene | A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 5
2017
2018
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
INVESTMENT RETURNS — Fiscal Year 2025
(as of June 30, 2025)
CFA Target Weighted Benchmark*
annualized 1 Year
3 Year
5 Year
7 Year
10 Year
11.5%
9.6%
9.6%
7.5%
10.4%
9.9%
7.9%
7.2%
10.2%
7.3%
*Target Weighted Benchmark is currently comprised of: 27.0% Russell 3000 Index, 18.0% MSCI AC World Index ex-U.S., 5.0% Bloomberg Barclays US Aggregate Index, 7.5% Thomson One Buyout Index, 5.0% Thomson One Distressed Index, 7.5% Thomson One Priv. Natural Resource Index, 2.5% Thomson One Private Real Estate Index, 7.5% Thomson One Venture Capital Index, 10.0% HFRI Fund of Funds Index, 2.5% S&P Developed BMI Property Index, and 7.5% S&P North America Nat Resources Index.
In 1993, the Foundation’s board embarked on a challenging mission to raise a $1,000,000 Administrative Endowment Fund. The fund would support the Foundation’s ongoing programs and operations, ensuring professional staff will always be of service to carry out the wishes of donors and to meet the needs of our community. The challenge was met in 1997. Now, in 2025, the construction of the CFA’s building expansion is underway, and the Foundation’s programming continues largely thanks to this administrative endowment. 1993 Foundation Board of Trustees: Tucker Bridwell (top), Reverend Leo Scott, Bennie Jones; Jack Ramsey, James Parker, Nancy Brock and Raymond McDaniel (standing) and Dr. B. J. Estes; Iris Nash, Sam Waldrop, Carolyn Barber, Maggy Morford, and Jim Alexander (seated). Not pictured: Dian Graves Stai and Philip Morehead.
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GRANTMAKING Impact
A
t the Foundation, we respond to community needs through our grantmaking. Grants are awarded in a variety of ways, including competitive grants, donor-advised grants, scholarships, and more.
The Foundation offered its first distribution of grant funding from its competitive grant cycles in spring 1986. Those awards totaled $18K. We awarded to causes impacting the elderly, children and youth, outreach programs, and arts and culture.
1991 ANNUAL REPORT “The Foundation has had phenomenal growth in its first five years. However, only a small part of its funds are unrestricted. The unrestricted funds’ income allows the Foundation to respond to applications from local nonprofit agencies. All of us can help by giving to the unrestricted funds of the Foundation.” – Maggy Morford, 1991 Grants Committee Chair
ARTS & CULTURE
In 1987, the Abilene Fine Arts Museum was awarded $1,500 for a campaign to publicize the Museum’s plans to develop the downtown complex, The Grace Cultural Center.
In 2025, the Museum has established endowment funds, including a fund dedicated to the preservation and maintenance of the historic building.
CHILDREN & YOUTH
In 1987, Big Brothers Big Sisters received a $1,500 grant to fund a child abuse prevention program and campaigns to encourage more youth to participate.
In 2025, more than $1M has been directed in a combination of grants and donor-directed gifts to help children reach their potential through one-to-one relationships.
EDUCATION
NOW
In 1987, a $1,000 grant assisted with the purchase of a video camera. The organization also established the first agency fund at the Foundation.
Since 1992, the growth of Kenley’s agency fund has provided more than $1.7M in support for their operations and programming.
HEALTH
THEN
Serenity House received a $1,779 grant to purchase a commercial refrigerator in 1987. The residential treatment center opened in 1984.
Since opening in 1984, Serenity House has helped more than 36,000 people with substance abuse.
HUMAN SERVICES
ORGANIZATION
Meals on Wheels was awarded a $3,000 grant in 1988 to purchase specialized commercial cooking equipment. This was used to stock a newly constructed building at 949 Mesquite.
Meals on Wheels currently has a team of 700+ volunteers delivering 1,500 daily meals. Their mission has been supported with almost $1.2M in CFA grants since 1987.
2.7K
ORGANIZATIONS SUPPORTED 14
$216M
GRANTS TO COMMUNITY SINCE 1985
$14M
GIFTS THROUGH ABILENE GIVES
$28,828,370 2025
2024
$15,817,767
$13,468,971
$18,423,618 2023
2022
2021
$9,737,461
$8,838,530 2020
2019
$6,465,009 2018
$7,739,461
$5,523,271 2017
2016
$5,755,183 2015
$5,032,238
$5,494,182 2014
2013
$5,352,306 2012
$3,428,564
$4,403,635 2011
2010
$5,345,406
$5,088,950
$4,134,605 2009
2008
2007
$4,003,232 2006
2003
$3,617,865
2002
$3,570,809
$2,628,452
$2,269,735
2001
2005
$2,379,815
2000
2004
$2,617,911
$2,105,255
1999
$2,360,577
1996
1998
$1,294,418
1995
$1,979,640
$928,070
1994
1997
$1,310,919
$998,200
1993
$1,380,442 1992
$1,134,449 1990
$1,143,316
$1,125,223 1989
1991
$925,812
$137,448
1988
1987
$20,000 1986
Grant Total
GRANTMAKING BY FISCAL YEAR
$19,632,151
Community Foundation of Abilene | A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 5
Fiscal Year End
OUR IMPACT TODAY This fiscal year, our community grant cycles awarded more than $1 million, as did our scholarships, and the ThriveABI initiative awarded a $190,000 grant to Beltway Ministry Center, marking the largest single grant the Foundation board has ever directed. Thrive ABI is an initiative to drive and measure progress towards key areas – education, essential needs, health and wellness, workforce and economic development, family well-being and neighborhoods, and arts and culture. A community foundation’s heart is its endowment. Careful stewardship and strategic investments assure that it will always be there. It is our investment in Abilene’s future, fulfilling our mission, forever and always.
GIFTS IN Action
GABRIELLA PACE ENDOWMENT FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
Mrs. Pace was born in McCaulley, Texas, in 1904. She graduated from Sweetwater High School and earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from Hardin-Simmons University.
ORIGINAL GIFT
$153K
LIFETIME GRANTS
$161K
2025 FUND BALANCE
$237K
Mrs. Pace taught for 26 years as a third-grade teacher at College Heights Elementary, retiring in 1970. She influenced three generations of children in her classroom.
Through the power of endowment, the fund’s balance has nearly doubled.
In 2000, Mrs. Pace passed away, preceded in death by her husband, Oscar, and son, Robert. Her estate gift established this fund supporting the educational needs of children in our community.
Her love for children and desire to help others is reflected in her fund. Because of the strategic and trusted investment, the Pace Endowment Fund will continue to grow, making Mrs. Pace’s impact lasting.
With a principal of $153K, the fund has made grants totaling the same amount over its 20-year history.
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COMMUNITY Grants JULY 1, 2024 – JUNE 30, 2025
COMMUNITY GRANTS BY CATEGORY
$1,115,850 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT $145,960 / 13%
ARTS & CULTURE
$61,000 / 5%
RESPONSIVE
$39,349 / 4%
EDUCATION
$114,000 / 10%
HEALTH
$220,230 / 20%
HUMAN SERVICES
$342,975 / 31%
CHILDREN & YOUTH
$192,336 / 17%
C
ommunity grants are from our unrestricted (or discretionary) fund types. Our donors have entrusted the Foundation with these funds to make grantmaking decisions each year based on the everchanging needs of our community. Most grants from unrestricted funds are awarded to local nonprofits through our community grant cycles in the fall and spring. Eligible nonprofits apply for funds, volunteer
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grant committees make award recommendations, and the Foundation’s Board approves. Donor-advised fundholders and any community member can also contribute to these grant cycles as featured in our giving guide, Community Connections. Learn more at cfabilene.org.
COMMUNITY GRANTEES Abilene Black Chamber of Commerce Abilene Crime Stoppers Abilene Education Foundation Abilene Home Away From Home Abilene Independent School District Abilene Performing Arts Company Abilene Philharmonic Association Abilene Preservation League Abilene Recovery Council Abilene Spectrum Connection Abilene Woman’s Club Foundation Abilene Zoological Society ACU Center for Careers and Experiential Learning (ACCEL) ACU Marriage and Family Institute (MFI) All For One Missions International All Kind Animal Initiative Alliance for Women and Children Alzheimer’s Association of Abilene American Red Cross BCFS Abilene Transition Center Beltway Ministry Center, Inc. Ben Richey Boys Ranch Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star Big Country Court Appointed Special Advocates, Inc. Big Country Soccer Association Boys & Girls Club of Abilene, Inc. Breakfast on Beech Street Camp Able Center for Contemporary Arts Chorus Abilene, Inc. Christian Job Corps of Abilene Christian Service Center Cisco College City Light Community Ministries City of Abilene Community Bed Project – Global Samaritan Resources Community Dental Project – Christian Service Center Cultura Local ABI Dignity Health Management Center Disability in Action Dyess First Sergeants Council FaithWorks of Abilene, Inc. Fellowship of Christian Athletes First Central Presbyterian Church Food Pantry Food Bank of West Central Texas For the Children Abilene Friends for Life Frontline Heroes Outdoors Global Samaritan Resources, Inc.
Community Foundation of Abilene | A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 5
Greater Than Three Outreach Hardin-Simmons University Harmony Family Services, Inc. Houses for Healing International Rescue Committee Junior League of Abilene Let Us Breathe Organization McMurry University Mentors Care Ministry of Counseling & Enrichment National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature New Horizons Ranch and Center, Inc. Operation Homefront Paramount Theatre Phoenix ICCD Clubhouse Pink Cap Warriors on the Move Play4More Foundation, Inc. Presbyterian Medical Care Mission Regional Victim Crisis Center Rural Taylor County Aging Services Serenity Foundation of Texas Special Olympics – Big Country St. John’s Episcopal School Taylor Jones Humane Society Texas Family Institute Texas Mission of Mercy, Inc. Texas Ramp Project Texas State Technical College Foundation Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Texas Trails Council BSA Texas Veterinary Medical Foundation The Grace Museum The Mentoring Alliance The Salvation Army
The Well Abilene Top Three Association United Methodist Service Center and Food Pantries United Rescue Alliance United Way of Abilene West Central Texas Council of Governments – Homeland Security West Central Texas Council of Governments – AHEC Department West Texas Homeless Network West Texas ONE West Texas Tribune West Texas Veteran Support Services Wylie Independent School District Young Audiences Youth Voice, Inc.
The Mentoring Alliance was a community grant recipient receiving funding to support student scholarships for 2025 summer camps. This was Mentoring Alliance’s second summer in Abilene ISD, using Alcorta and Bonham Elementary Schools as host locations.
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Community Foundation of Abilene | A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 5
FUTURE FUND Future Fund is a membership-supported endowment fund of the Community Foundation of Abilene to benefit local organizations. Membership dues are pooled into the endowment, the money is invested, and the fund grows. Revenue is used to make grants each year to nonprofits serving children and youth. During the FY25 Future Fund grant cycle, more than $122.6K was awarded to 32 nonprofits serving kids in the Abilene community. Sixty-seven percent of the funding support came from community contributions and donor-advised funds from the Community Foundation of Abilene.
An additional $3,000 was awarded during the membership social at The ROC – Abilene Youth Sport Authority’s new complex for soccer and other outdoor sports. This award will help meet the scholarship needs of 25-30 local children and youth. Future Fund members and the power of endowment make this happen. And now, thirty years since the launch of Future Fund, the endowment has reached a balance of more than $1M. To learn about becoming a member of the Future Fund, visit cfabilene.org/futurefund.
FUTURE FUND GRANTEES $125.6K Abilene Arts Alliance Abilene Big Country Hunger Coalition Abilene Independent School District Abilene Performing Arts Company Abilene Philharmonic Association Abilene Youth Sports Authority Abilene Zoological Society All For One Missions International BCFS Abilene Transition Center Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star Big Country Court Appointed Special Advocates, Inc. Boys & Girls Club of Abilene, Inc. Children’s Performing Arts Series Chorus Abilene, Inc. Day 1 Bags For the Children Abilene Hardin-Simmons University
Joseph Thomas Foundation Mentors Care Mullin Abilene School for New Horizons National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature New Horizons – Audrey Grace Noah Project Pathways Youth & Family Services, Inc. Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services Special Olympics – Big Country The Grace Museum The Mentoring Alliance West Texas Homeless Network The Future Fund was launched in 1995. In West Texas Tribune its first year, $10K was awarded in grants to Young Audiences Valley View Elementary and Young Audiences. Young Ladies Success Over the past 30 years, lifetime grantmaking Youth Voice, Inc. has reached more than $1.6M.
REGIONAL COMMUNITY FUNDS
These are the regional funds we manage and the amount of grants they made during FY25:
CFA has the ability to manage endowment funds established by another community. It is a great way to remove the administrative burden from a family or regional foundation so they can focus on the impact they wish to make. Learn more at cfabilene.org.
$64,000 $95,942 $22,000 $65,000 $34,005
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AVJ Foundation Coleman County Foundation Friends of the Coleman County Foundation Nolan County Foundation Winters Area Foundation
RURAL CYCLE GRANTS Our rural grantmaking initiative, established in 2022, is made possible through the generosity of a fund established by Dr. Paula Windham. Dr. Windham was a pillar of the Oplin community. She was known to be a trailblazer, a ranch woman, scholar, and woman of faith. The fund established in her honor supports special projects, capacity building, and capital projects for outlying communities in the greater West-Central Texas region.
RURAL GRANTS by Category Arts & Culture
$37,750 / 12%
Education
(related to agriculture and ranch management)
$168,250 / 53%
Community Development & Leadership
$60,250 / 19%
Health & Human Services
Rural Grantmaking Impact Areas V FD Grantmaking Impact Area
$50,000 / 16%
RURAL GRANTEES $306.2K
VFD GRANTEES $211.3K
89.5 KACU Public Radio Buffalo Gap Chamber of Commerce Buffalo Gap Presbyterian Ministries Butman Methodist Camp & Retreat Center City of DeLeon City of Munday Haskell County Hospital District Museum of the West Texas Frontier Penatuhkah Comanche Trails Partnership Region 14 Education Service Center Stamford Carnegie Library Texas Small Town Young Life Imagination Library (United Way of Abilene) XDOT Academy
Through 2025, the Foundation offered a grant cycle for volunteer fire departments (VFDs) in the West-Central Texas region. This funding opportunity provided added support for VFDs to purchase equipment needed to serve and protect our neighbors in these rural communities. Anson Bangs Benjamin Blanket Carbon Early Eastland ECCA Energy
Eula Glen Cove Jim Ned Knox City Merkel Moro Nolan Potosi Ranger
Rising Star Roscoe Rotan Throckmorton View Winchell Winters
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FUTURE FUND LIFETIME & 2025 MEMBERS 3rd Street Printing & Sign Company Lexi and Minor Alexander Katie and Jason Alford Jodie and Nick Arrott Carolyn and John Beckham Chelsea and Rob Beckham Julie and Rob Beckham Gay Beitscher Jeannette and Josh Black Roberta Kalafut and Edward Brandecker Teresa and Gray Bridwell Katie and Cade Browning Lindi and Bryan Bruning Dawn and Alex Burch Gracie Carroll Emerald and Jason Cassidy Linda and Sam Chase Lisa Chavez Kelly Cheek Megan Cheek Misti and Clay Collier Cay and Steve Collins Mary and Vance Cooksey
Matt Cope Laura and Dave Copeland Carol and Vic Corley Lota Zoth and Cary Corthron Jana and Joe Crawford Elisabeth and Barrett Danelski Lynn and Bud Darby Holly and Gil DeShazo Timber and Will Donaldson Kathryn Drury Laura and Ted Dyer Larry Ellis Mandy Ellis Jana and Ed Emerson Katie and Eric Emerson Shellie and Sam Evans Evelyn and Joe Ferguson Jennifer and Michael Fernandez Gabriela and Andy Garcia Brianne and Nathan George Libby and Ryan Gibson Mandy and Paige Gollihar Rhonda and Tim Graves Beverly and Russell Guthrie
Callie and Lee Hampton Lindsay and Jay Hardaway Abbi and Andrew Harmon Kristen Harris Kaye and Joe Hawkins Becca and Scott Hibbs Wendy and Scott Kilmer Sherette and Stephen Kimmel Diana and Mark Layton Christie Leedy Paige and Philip LeMasters Elyse and Patrick Lewis Debbie and Tim Lillick J’Dana and Tom Lindley Misty and Nathan Lowry Joe Mangrem Kelsi Mangrem Libby and Kenneth Martin Nancy and Michael Matthew Amy and Rocky McAdams Karla and Andy McCall Candice and Forrest McCray Sydney and Charles McKinney Dawne and Jeremy Meeks
Kim and Tony Melnyk Kim and Jay Miers Jamie and Shannon Miers Elizabeth and Aaron Miller Zoie and Kyle Mitchell Julianna and DonMark Nickson Angela Nicolini and Michael Bob Starr Kassidy and Ricky Nygaard Amanda and Terry O’Connor Lanny Owens Aida, Kevin and Katie Pantoja Kim and Mark Phelan Amanda and David Pittman Angel and Norm Poorman Dorothy and Kerry Preston Ashley Puryear Callie and Austin Roeder Hailey and Charles Rotenberry Brittany and Ben Salmon Cheryl and Jason Sawyers Sue and Eric Schackmuth Erin and Cactus Schroeder
Michelle and Scott Senter Kaitlin and Shawn Senter Leslie and Shay Senter Debbie and Steve Senter Molly and Chase Sims Eddy Smith Kay and Randy Spiva Holly and Andy Stoebner Cindy and Mike Sullivan Jill and Brett Teague Akane and Matt Thaxton Sam Townsend Sheila and Mike Warren Meagan and Cameron Wiley Amy and John Willey Laura Millican and Nick Williamson Julie Wilson Tracy and Richard Wolfe Donna and Terry Wolfer Traci and Tim Yandell Jane and Greg Yost Names in bold indicate lifetime members
FRIENDS OF THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF ABILENE The Friends of the Community Foundation of Abilene is a core group of supporters whose membership contributes to our operational costs, allowing us to serve as an even stronger resource for the community. Founded in 2002, the Friends have contributed nearly $1.2 million in support. Each year, members are invited to attend a Friends breakfast to hear Foundation news and community updates. A CFA Friends membership starts at $200 per year for an individual or couple. Learn more at cfabilene.org/cfafriends. Katie and Jason Alford Barbara and Lynn Anderson Yvonne and Ron Batts Carolyn and John Beckham Julie and Rob Beckham Gay Beitscher Russell Berry Debbie and Downing Bolls Rhonda and Leroy Bolt Lou and Robert Briley Nancy Brock Glenda and David Buhrmann Kelly and Paul Cannon Jo and Joe Ed Canon Nancy and Jay Capra Nell and Jerry Carter
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Linda and Sam Chase Carl Childers Dewayne Chitwood Cay and Steve Collins Lynette and Charles Coody Laura and Dave Copeland Cary Corthron and Lota Zoth Roxy and Bill Cox Jana and Joe Crawford Lynn and Bud Darby Mary and Alan Davis Rudith Drennan Scott Dueser Laurie and Bob Eagle Chuck Erwin Shellie and Sam Evans Star and Ray Ferguson
Doris and Don Fitzgibbons Deonna and Gary Galbraith Mary and Bob Gee
Rhonda and Tim Graves Gayle Gray Ann and Jack Griggs Beverly and Russell Guthrie Carol and Lanny Hall Ashley and Jason Hall Callie and Lee Hampton Kaye and Joe Hawkins Holly and Jim Hays Becca and Scott Hibbs Linda and Barry Hoefer Eleanor and Robert Hoppe
Edwina and Loyd Hopper Annabel House Cheri and Mark Hudson Melody Hunt J.V. and Gerald Johnson Nancy and Ross Jones Jane Jones Diane and Bill Keeble Leigh and Greg King Elyse and Patrick Lewis Marilyn and K.O. Long Jackie and Roger Love Ellen and Kirk Massey Chris and Kade Matthews Gloria McDaniel Jeannette and David McQueen Doris and Bobby Melson Elizabeth and Aaron Miller Royce Money Becky and Ronnie Nail Tootsie Nichols Danna and Eric Oliver
Don Paige Cynthia Pearson John Pearson Shirley and John Poe Jim Price Karen and Jack Rich Diana and Miller Richert Mary Ross Sue and Eric Schackmuth Lila and Bill Senter Michelle and Scott Senter Debbie and Steve Senter Rhonda and Gary Shahan Marelyn and Glen Shedd Nita Slaton Eddy Smith Kaye and Dick Spalding Cindy and Mike Sullivan Karen and David Swearingen Jana and John Thacker Cathey and Rick Weatherl Kathy and Jim Webster Frances and Doug Williamson Julie Wilson Bernice and Bobbie Wolfe Bill Wright Jeannie and Mike Young
Community Foundation of Abilene | A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 5
DESIGNATED ENDOWMENT FUNDS $3.83 M awarded DONOR DESIGNATED: Donors establish these funds to specify that the income or assets support a specific charitable organization.
12th Armored Division Memorial Museum Fund Abilene Education Foundation Fund Abilene Philharmonic Fund Anton Family Designated Fund Carolyn and Harwell Barber Fund for United Way Beckham Family Fund for Ben Richey Boys Ranch Beitscher Family Fund for the Abilene Philharmonic Association Catherine M. Benson and Joseph Chaffin Benson Fund for the Abilene Opera Assoc. Don Bierwagen Fund for the Barbershop Harmony Society Big Brothers Big Sisters of Abilene Fund established by Norma Springer Big Country Reentry Coalition Project Fund Boys and Girls Club of Abilene Fund established anonymously in honor of Dian Graves Owen Buffalo Gap Historic Village Ruth and Bill Burton Fund for First Church of Christ, Scientist, Abilene Guy Caldwell Western Heritage Fund for Hardin-Simmons University Martha Scott Carlson Fund for Abilene Education Foundation GIFT Grants David and Gayle Carr Memorial Musicians Fund Center for Contemporary Arts Harold and Pat Crawford Fund for the Alliance for Women and Children Amber and Bill Cree Fund for Abilene Zoo and Hendrick Home for Children Day Nursery of Abilene Ralph and Lavern Donnell Doscher Fund for the Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest J. Henry Doscher Fund for The Grace Museum Drennan Family Fund Judy Dudley Memorial GIFT Fund Douglas and Ann Ford Fund for Disability Resources, Inc. Nina Gifford Fund for AEF COOL Program Paul and Sara Graham Fund for McMurry Basketball
Robert and Anita Herren Memorial Fund for Haskell Robert and Marilyn Hitt Charitable Home Again West Texas (HAWT) (non-endowed) Homeless – Abilene Coalition (non-endowed) ICAN Curtis Home Project Fund (non-endowed) Indigent Care Fund for Taylor County Kenneth and Marilyn Jacobs Fund for Education Marvin and Nancy Norman Jones Fund for Winters Morgan and Jessie Jones Fund for Day Nursery of Abilene and The Grace Museum Beverly and Henry Kitzman Endowment Dottie S. and Gilbert Korman, Jr. Designated Fund Jerry and Rozlyn Love The Matthew 25:14-46 Fund Dr. Donald McDonald Fund for Children’s Health Maggy Morford Fund for St. John’s Episcopal School Mulberry Canyon VFD Jim and Bobbi Naler Fund for Abilene State Supported Living Center Narrow Gate Foundation established by John E. Pearson and Sons National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature Marion and Harry Neeb Fund for Sacred Heart Catholic Church Hazel F. Nunn Fund for the Nolan County Library Dian Graves Owen Fund for St. John’s Episcopal School Panther Creek CISD Project Fund Historic Paramount Theatre Paramount Theatre Fund for Excellence Parker Family Foundation Fund Lois Caldwell Peck Fund for Cancer Services Network Perry and Judy Reeves Family Education Fund * Rescue the Animals Rescue the Animals Spay and Neuter Rock Ranch Fund Safe Families for Children in Abilene Wade Scoggins Memorial Fund for Young Life of Abilene Herbert A. and Emma Bell Seidel and W. Alan Swagerty Fund for Meals on Wheels Senter Family Fund for Abilene Hope Haven Shackelford County Community Resource Center
Major Charles Paul Shearn, III Memorial Fund for Shearn Elementary, Houston, TX Ruby Shelton Endowment Fund for the Alliance for Women and Children Hudson and Martha Smart Dick and Kaye Spalding Fund for Serenity House St. John’s Episcopal School St. John’s Episcopal School Excellence St. John’s Episcopal School Headmaster Stone Owl Institute * Swenson House Fund established by David and Sue Stubbeman Taliaferro Fund for St. John’s Episcopal School Dick and Beverly Tarpley Fund for Abilene Philharmonic and Abilene Zoo Taylor Jones Humane Society Texas Veterans Cemetery Wreath Fund The Grace Museum The Grace Museum Building Maintenance The Grace Museum Director’s Endowment James D. Tittle Designated Fund * Victor and Janet Vadney Pat Meleen Vaughn Robert, Elsie and Roberta Watters Elwood B. and Shug Webb Jim and Kathy Webster Grace Westfall Memorial WHC Disaster Relief Fund Wheat Family Fund for Winters Jim Wilburn Memorial Fund for No Need for Need, Fisher and Nolan County Areas Bill and Alice Wright Fund Wright Fund for Photography for The Grace Museum George and Marie Yaeger Fund for the Abilene Philharmonic Association * New Funds
AGENCY DESIGNATED: These are designated funds established by nonprofit organizations to create a source of revenue to support their programs and/or operations. 12th Armored Division Memorial Museum Abilene Arts Alliance Abilene Community Band Abilene Education Foundation Abilene Education – AHS Alumni Scholarship Abilene Education – CHS Alumni Scholarship Chessmates: The Scholastic Chess Club of AISD Crosstown Rivals Scholarship Royce Curtis Excellence in Education Scholarship Judy Dudley Memorial Gift Grants Fund JB & Winnie Gibbs Coaching and Counseling Fund Edwin & Agnes Jennings Teaching Excellence Award Martha Kiel Scholarship Mary Ann Polnick 21st Century Learning Grant Fund Abilene Hope Haven Abilene Industrial Foundation Abilene Library Consortium Abilene Philharmonic Association Thile Walker Scholarship William Davis Scholarship Abilene Philharmonic Foundation Abilene Recovery Council ( formerly ARCADA) Abilene Woman’s Club Educational Albany ISD Education Foundation Albany ISD Dulin Scholarship Fund Alliance for Women and Children – Elizabeth Baugh Assoc. of Christian Childcare Administrators
Ben Richey Boys Ranch Foundation Travis Cranfill Memorial Education Big Country Athletic Hall of Fame Big Country CASA Brook Hollow Christian Church Fund Brownwood Public Library Center for Contemporary Arts Christian Homes & Family Services * Christian Service Center Clyde Education Foundation Coleman ISD Foundation Day Nursery – Bea Ganson Day Nursery of Abilene Endowment for Maintenance – Sherry Lane Day Nursery of Abilene Endowment for Building Maintenance Disability Resources, Inc. Dyess Operation Warm Heart Expo Center of Taylor County Agency Fund Friends of the Abilene Public Library Frontier Texas! Operating Endowment Global Samaritan Resources Hendrick Hospice Care Houses for Healing * Keep Abilene Beautiful Endowment Kenley School Endowment Kenley School Endowment for Scholarships CJ Macon Scholarship Foundation
National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature Paramount Theatre Memorial Paramount Theatre Reserves Pregnancy Resources Legacy of Life Fund Danna Oliver Empowering Life Fund * Presbyterian Medical Care Mission Travis and Mary Katherine Smith Fund for PMCM Sam’s Place St. John’s Episcopal School St. John’s Episcopal School Learning for a Lifetime Steps Big Country Project Account Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing Taylor Jones Humane Society Taylor Jones Humane Society Flex Texas Family Initiative Big Country Fund Texas Prairieland Foundation Texas Trails Council, Boy Scouts of America Texas Trails Council BSA Texas Midwest Community Network (TMCN) The Grace Museum The Grace Museum Facility Endowment United Way of Abilene West Central Texas Regional Foundation Wylie Bulldogs Education Foundation YMCA Endowment Young Audiences of Abilene Residency Program Zambia Mission * New Funds
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DONOR-ADVISED FUNDS $11.18 M awarded Donor-advised funds allow donors to recommend grants to a range of charitable causes throughout the year.
NON-ENDOWED A Small Token Fund * The 4 Musketeers Family Fund Abilene Automotive Education Alliance Gary Ackers David and Kay Alexander Alford Family Mac and Marjorie Andrews Furniture Tiffany and Craig Armstrong Rob and Julie Beckham Jody and Betsy Bellah Charles and Leigh Black Price and Nancy Brock Andrew McEntire Caldwell * Lauren and Cliff Caldwell * Carl Childers Condley and Company Dave and Laura Copeland Cordell’s Community Change Fund
Bart and Jackie Cox Davis-Kinard Andrew David Durham David and Sindy Durham Wendy Hanks Durham Bob and Laurie Eagle Lale and BJ Estes Family Foundation Fund Ray and Star Ferguson First Financial Bankshares Employee Disaster Relief Doris Miller and Don Fitzgibbons Dot and Jesse C. Fletcher and Melissa Fletcher Galaxy Charitable Foundation * Gerald and Christie Galbraith Dr. Bill and Barbara Gee Gandy Gee Family Master Sgt. Randy Gillespie Memorial
Lee and Callie Hampton Carol and Bill Haynes Bruce and Nancy Hildebrand Leonard R. Hoffman Shay Shelton Hoffman Hudson Family John and Tina Hunter Paul and Myra Johnson Mark and Diana Layton Patrick and Elyse Lewis Life to Life Robert and Louise Lockhart Sandip and Mishi Mathur Mayday Fund The McDonald Family McM Baseball Alumni Association Bobby and Doris Melson Melson Family
Barbara and Bynum Miers Tabitha Newcomb Syd and Evelyn Niblo C. Christine Nichols Don and Becky Poindexter Jack and Becky Rentz Rich Family Lynn and Carl Roeder Family Shelton Family Foundation TANSTAAFL Fund Kirk and Kristi Thaxton Family Trio Sharegiver Community Two Creeks Ranch Laura Wardroup * Stanley and Claudie Wilson Bill and Alice Wright
Jay and Nancy Capra Deborah Carson Clarke Family * Coleman Family Matt and Kristi Cooley Sara and Bill Core Dr. Brady Cox Memorial Denny Family Foundation Gil and Holly DeShazo Charitable Ed and Jana Emerson Eric and Katie Emerson Becky Glass Fellows Files Family Foundation Emily T. Files J.B. and Patricia Fooshee Lee and Callie Hampton Geoff and Angie Haney Kaye Price-Hawkins and Joe Hawkins Hibbs Family Charitable Fund * Eleanor and Robert Hoppe Inspired Services J2K Charitable JVM Family Fund Dwain and Mona Jones Foundation Jane and Otis Jones Jeff and Susan Jones Family
Keeble Family Blake Alan Korman Memorial Lauve Family Fund Gerald and Bettye Lawler James V. Lawrence Estate Lillick Family Fund M.A.D. Foundation Tim and Debbie Manley Mansefeldt Group Lynn Beckham Marderosian The Maroney Family Fund Bill and Daila McAnally * McCall Fund * Raymond and Gloria McDaniel Kayren and John Mingus in Memory of Roy Helen Mingus Ackers Hillary Moore Lars and Anna Moore Kathy and Phil Morehead Morrison Family Fund * Jennifer and Michael Murphy * Terrell Tone Owen Memorial Padon Family Fund * Aubrey Chloe Pearson Memorial Fund * Bush Ramsey Rick and Pam Rhodes Family
Rideout Family Fund Kent and Merri Lynn Rideout Family Fund Terry and Marka Riddle Rosebud Fund Eric and Sue Schackmuth Family Fund Charles E. and Erin Schroeder Family Charities Schultz Family Fund * Nellie Parramore Sellers Senter Family Foundation Leslie and Shay Senter * Scott and Michelle Senter Charitable Steve and Debbie Senter H.L. Shaw Memorial Shelton Family Fund Kay and Randy Spiva Family Fund Jennifer Gilley Stringer John Taliaferro David Taubert Memorial Ruby and Raymond Thomason, Sr. Foundation Trio Sharegiver Community Sam and Lucy Vinson * Carolyn and Richard Young Weatherl Family Wood Family Bill and Alice Wright Family Foundation
* New Funds
ENDOWED Alexander-Eagle-Weatherl Giving Fund Alexander Generation 3 Giving Fund Minor and Lexi Alexander Janice and Bob Allen Lynn and Barbara Anderson Mac and Marjorie Andrews Furniture Anonymous Anothen Fund Steve Arthur Family Foundation Bahlman-Stehle Fund Alan and Mary Catherine Barr * Dr. Terry Bawcom Family Bar Nothing by Wilson Jeannette and Josh Black Jane Varner Beard Bob and Peggy Beckham John and Carolyn Beckham Rob and Julie Beckham Bridwell Family Foundation Tucker and Gina Bridwell Tucker S. Bridwell Ron and Lorilei Butler * Bryant Journey Fund Ruth and Bill Burton Family Ruth and Lee Caldwell Family Paul and Kelly Cannon
* New Funds
UNRESTRICTED FUNDS $1.04 M awarded
These funds support any range of charitable causes and are not restricted to a designated field, allowing the Foundation flexibility to respond to emerging needs. Abilene Alpha Endowment Jim and Jerri Alexander Fund Ruth Guitar Alexander Memorial Benjamin T. Allen Memorial Mildred Morris Austin Memorial Richard and Betty Bacon Fund Marcia Ungren Bailey Fund for Abilene Carolyn and Harwell Barber Fund Grady and Ann Barr Fund Bob & Peggy Beckham Family Fund Mrs. L.H. Beckham Fund Arthur, Dana and Cindy Beitscher Memorial Fund Glenn and Lylia Bennett Fund for Nolan County Tucker and Gina Bridwell Fund Cade and Katie Browning Fund
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Ruth and Lee Caldwell Fund Joe Ed and Jo Canon Fund Jimmie and Mary Lynn Cantrell Fund Jane Childers Fund Ruth Ann Choate Legacy Fund Community Foundation Memorial Fund Harold and Pat Crawford Fund J Neil Daniel Fund Ben and Bonnie Davis Legacy Fund Ray and Kay Denkhoff Charitable Fund Joy and Gary DeShazo Fund Ralph and Lavern Donnell Fund J. Henry Doscher Charitable Fund Mack and Helen Eplen Memorial Fund Dr. B.J. and Lale Estes Fund Louis S. Gee and Bobbie A. Gee Fund Larry and Mary Gill Fund Barbara B. Hardy Jean K. Hays Fund
Robert and Marilyn Hitt Charitable Fund Eddie and Nelda Hodges Fund Ralph and Nelle Hooks Fund Paul and Myra Johnson Fund A.V. Jones Family Fund Bennie and Diane Jones Fund Cearley and Jane Kinard Fund Cearley and Ruby Kinard Fund Derwood and Billie Langston Fund William R. Lutz Memorial Fund J.D. and Elsie Magee Family Fund Eileen Taylor Massey Memorial Fund Tom McAlister and Scott Senter Fund Raymond and Gloria McDaniel Fund SM and Portia Moore Fund Bob and Maggy Morford Fund Moss Charities Fund Linda Murphy Fund Syd and Evelyn Niblo Fund
Dian G. Owen Fund Dr. Jack and Joy Ramsey Fund Wayne V. and Marie Ramsey Fund Sam and Susan Reeves Fund Mel Richards Memorial Fund Lila and Bill Senter Fund Steve and Debbie Senter Family Fund Carl S. Shoults, Jr. Fund Susan Stroud Fund Bob and Elaine Surovik Fund Jim and Doris Taylor Fund Gail and Howard Tobin Fund Pat Meleen Vaughn Fund Coy and Elizabeth Gene Warren Fund CG and Carol Whitten Family Fund Howard and Hope Wilkins Fund Allen and Mary Wright Fund John A. and Virginia Wright Memorial Fund Dr. T.D. Young Fund
SCHOLARSHIPS $1.06 M awarded
Community Foundation of Abilene | A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 5
Donors can designate these funds to award scholarships for college or postgraduate education. AAUW Endowed Scholarship Ashley and Sara Abel Memorial Scholarship Abilene A&M Club Scholarship Abilene Alumnae Panhellenic Assoc., Missy Bridwell Memorial Scholarship Abilene Founder Lions Club, A.E. Wells Scholarship Abilene Founder Lions Club, Randell and Evangeline Watkins Scholarship Abilene Geological Society Scholarship Abilene Housing Authority Dr. Tanya Smith Brice Rising Star Scholarship * Vanessa Faz Bridge to Success Scholarship * Abilene Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Scholarship Advanced VoIP Solutions Scholarship Bob Alvis Memorial Scholarship Another Step Forward Scholarship Wesley Armstrong Memorial Scholarship Mary Bailey Memorial Scholarship My Whole Heart: Colt Baker Memorial Scholarship Alistair Baldwin Scholarship Dr. and Mrs. L.M. Bayouth Memorial Scholarship Be a Champion Scholarship * Ken Becker Leadership Scholarship Fund Perry Bentley Memorial Scholarship Big Country Athletic Hall of Fame Scholarship Nancy and Ted Paup Big Country Hall of Fame Scholarship Big Country County Medical Society Alliance Scholarship Glenda Bryan Memorial Scholarship * Bill and Dale Burns Scholarship Ruth and Bill Burton Memorial Scholarship Herman Ray (Buz) Buzbee, Jr. Memorial Music Scholarship Coach Childress Memorial Scholarship Marguerite and Ike Chism Scholarship Roy Churchill Memorial Scholarship Clack Educational Scholarship Horace M. Condley Scholarship Gilbert Cook Memorial Scholarship Dr. Brady Cox Memorial Scholarship Tony Daniel Memorial FCA Scholarship Davis Kinard-Kate Nutter Memorial Scholarship Wilburn H. “Blue” Denham Memorial Scholarship Marie Denham Memorial Scholarship Ralph and Lavern Donnell Scholarship J. Henry Doscher, Jr. Scholarship Farrar Ranch Family Fund * From Harm to Home Scholarship established by Angela Nicolini Gold Star Memorial Scholarship Cason Grant “Wild at Heart” Memorial Scholarship Greater Abilene Ministers Alliance Scholarship Linda Haley and Cel Cowan Memorial Scholarship * Larry Hall Memorial Scholarship Kemper Scott Hamilton Memorial Scholarship Dr. Edgar Martin Harp Memorial Scholarship for Medicine The Dollie Lane Harp Memorial Scholarship for Classical Music
Haskell County Scholarship Jay Hatcher Memorial Scholarship Dr. Dean Hawkins Scholarship Jean and Curly Hays Scholarship Bob R. Hefner Scholarship Hispanic Leadership Council Scholarship Hispanic Senior Recognition Scholarship Floy Hodge Scholarship Rodney Holder Memorial Scholarship Lady Clyde Hooper Memorial Scholarship RC and Elizabeth Hoppe Memorial Scholarship James P. Hopper Memorial Scholarship Casey Leo Huff Memorial Scholarship Fred Lee Hughes Memorial Scholarship Bonnie and Bill Kiker and Virginia Kiker Hughes Memorial Scholarship Independent Insurance Agents of Abilene Scholarship Pearl Jackson Scholarship Ross Jones Memorial Scholarship Charlie Jordan Memorial Scholarship Saranne and Benny Judkins Scholarship In Memory of Billie and Zane Judkins GySgt. Robert K. Keller Memorial Scholarship Margaret Wheeler Kennedy Scholarship Eula M. Kruse Scholarship Tom Kutch Memorial Scholarship Mary Alice Terry Larson Memorial Fund Brock Latham Memorial Scholarship Cathy Springer Leavell Memorial Scholarship Love Like Jazz Scholarship LULAC Council 605 Scholarship McClellan “Think On” Memorial Scholarship Raymond A. McDaniel Memorial Scholarship McMahon Surovik Suttle, P.C. Scholarship Sheriff John Middleton Memorial Scholarship Jack Mildren Memorial Scholarship Mary and George Minter Memorial Scholarship Todd Moore Memorial Scholarship Zach Moore Memorial Scholarship Chuck and Doris Moser Scholarship My Whole Heart: Colt Baker Memorial Scholarship * NAIFA - Abilene Assoc. of Ins. Financial Advisors Scholarship Jack and Donna Nall Band Scholarship Nolan County Foundation Scholarship Hazel Nunn Scholarship Endowment for HSU Hazel Nunn Scholarship Endowment for TSTC Tillie Odam Memorial Scholarship Janet Parkey Memorial Scholarship Petroleum Club of Houston Scholarship Hollis Hayes Pinkston Scholarship Randy Polk Memorial Endowed Scholarship Barney and Janie Popnoe Memorial Scholarship Karen Adair Price RN Memorial Scholarship Jesse M. and Bernice M. Pyeatt Scholarship
Ranger Class of ’86 Scholarship Fund Reach for a Difference Scholarship Reed and Kilpatrick Memorial Scholarship * Mary Louise Reid Nursing Scholarship * Rentech Boiler Systems, Inc. Scholarship Jane A. Rhodes Scholarship Zach Robinson Memorial Scholarship Selma and Mary Elizabeth Russell Scholarship * Ginny Ryan Memorial Scholarship Salute to Citizens Scholarship Second Chances Scholarship Señora Stacy Horton Sanchez Scholarship Schuman Family Scholarship Leo and Piney Scott Scholarship Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing Scholarship SHS Class of 1961 Scholarship SHTX Nathan & Norma Belcher and Zinn Lindsey Scholarship SHTX Amy Bell Scholarship Fund SHTX Darlene Hicks Memorial Scholarship SHTX Doug Householder Memorial Scholarship SHTX Ben Tyner Memorial Scholarship Barbara and Norman Smart Memorial Scholarship Catherine Aileen Smith-Jones Memorial Scholarship Kim and Jim Snyder Scholarship for Texas A&M Stick Horses and Capes Scholarship Stock Horse of Texas Scholarship Hal and Jean Stockton Scholarship Stone Owl Scholars Scholarship Tarpley Family Scholarship Texas Society of CPA’s (Abilene Chapter) Scholarship Texas Tech Center for Excellence Scholarship Johnathan Tschaar Memorial Scholarship Harold Dean Wade Memorial Scholarship Sam and Ellen Webb Albany Heritage Scholarship WesTex Drilling Co., Robert B. Cockrell Memorial Scholarship West Texas Fair and Rodeo Scholarship West Texas Hereford Association, Curly Hays Scholarship Wheat Family Trade Scholarship Nicholas Whitaker Memorial Scholarship Cleve Whitener Memorial Scholarship Kay Whitton and Lessie (McCormick) Terry Scholarship Ruth Hatcher and Joe Williamson Memorial Music Scholarship Stanley and Claudie Wilson Scholarship Winters Area Foundation Community Scholarship Winters Area Foundation Scholarship Winters Area Red Raider Scholarship Winters Dove Fest Scholarship * Mabel Winton Educational Scholarship Robert Macario Ybarra Memorial Scholarship Abilene Christian University Scholarship Endowment Hardin-Simmons University Scholarship Endowment McMurry University Scholarship Endowment * New Funds
FIELD OF INTEREST FUNDS $1.15 M awarded Grants from these funds support a specific charitable field, according to the donor’s interest. Abilene Disaster Relief Abilene Fund for the Arts Abilene Fund for Helping Others Abe and Sariet Allen Critical Health Care APC Endowment for Mental Health Apostle Paul Fund Arch and Patti Batjer Fund for Children and Youth Arch and Patti Batjer Health Care Beckham Family Fund for Youth and Elderly in Need Don and Lora Lynn Christensen Fund Glen and Joy Churchill Fund E. G. and Janell Cockerell Fund for Animals Dr. David Lamont Collins Memorial Fund for Dental Health Mary L. Reams Collins Memorial Fund for Women’s Health Diane Denkhoff Fund for Children’s Health
Lale and BJ Estes Human Service Future Fund Elsie Lou and Edward H. Martin Memorial Fund for Elderly Care Raymond and Gloria McDaniel Fund for Youth NAIFA - Abilene Fund for Children Norman-Stevens Memorial Fund for Winters Gabriella Pace Endowment for Early Childhood Education Pete and JoAnn Peterson Fund for Children and Health Juanita T. Pollard Cultural Mary Ross Fund for Workforce Development * Serendipity Fund Steve and Nita Slaton Fund for Humane Treatment of Animals Support Big Country Disaster Relief Fund Paula Windham Fund for Education and Community Development Pat Meleen Vaughn Fund for Celebration of Life
Pat Meleen Vaughn Fund for Humane Treatment of Animals Volunteer Fire Dept. Endowment Funds Brown County Callahan County Coleman County Eastland County Shackelford County Taylor County Paul and Vera West Fund for Children Charles and Sue Simmons White Endowment for the Needy Women’s Fund for Health and Empowerment * New Fund
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2025 BOARD of Trustees SAM VINSON, BOARD CHAIR
Managing Partner Pine Valley Capital Partners
SHEA HALL
CAROLYN BECKHAM
Community Volunteer
GEOFF HANEY
Retired U.S. Senate
Private Investments
BRANDON OSBORNE
DR. ALLISON PADON
Executive Director Abilene Youth Sports Authority
Pediatrician
RON BUTLER
KELLY CANNON
JASON HALL
EVP, Chief Administrative Officer First Financial Bank, N.A.
Community Volunteer
Shareholder McMahon, Surovik, Suttle P.C.
JAY HARDAWAY
MELODY HUNT
DAVID MCQUEEN
Legislative Affairs and Public Policy Director, Hendrick Health
SUE SCHACKMUTH
Community Volunteer
President Hunt Direct Marketing, Inc.
Legacy Pastor Beltway Park Church
DR. GUSTAVO VILLANUEVA
ELIZABETH WAGSTAFF
Assoc. Superintendent for Student Services, Abilene ISD
Attorney
FORMER TRUSTEES as of October 1, 2025 Jim Alexander* Clyde Allen Tom Allen Lynn Anderson Jill Bailey Harwell Barber* Carolyn Barber Grady Barr* Yvonne Batts* Jane Varner Beard John Beckham* Peggy Beckham* Rob Beckham Jeff Blanks* Vianei Lopez Braun Tucker Bridwell* Nancy Brock Ken Burgess
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Lee Caldwell* Paul Cannon* Joe Canon* Lisa Chavez Mishawn Childers Tom Choate* Dave Copeland Jackie Ramsey Cox* Harold Crawford Joe Crawford Bud Darby Gil DeShazo Laura Dyer Laurie Eagle Robert Eagle Dr. B.J. Estes Charles Ezzell Sarah Ferguson
Don Fitzgibbons Dr. Jesse Fletcher Bill Franklin Allan Frizzell Deonna Galbraith Bobbie Gee Larry Gill Gayle Gray Myrle Greathouse Elbert E. Hall Lee Hampton Scott Hibbs* Mark Hudson Fred Lee Hughes Petty Hunter Joe Johnson Bennie Jones Patti Jones
Leigh King Tim Lancaster Kirk Massey Mishi Mathur Raymond McDaniel Bobbie Melson Kathy Merrill Bynum Miers Chris Montoya Philip Morehead Maggy Morford Ken Musgrave Buddy Napier Iris Nash George Nichols Ian Nickerson, Sr.* Danna Oliver James Parker
Mindy Patterson Billye Proctor-Shaw Frank Puckett Jr. Dr. Jack Ramsey Dr. Wayne V. Ramsey, Jr. Betty Ray Sam Reeves Becky Rentz Sam Reyes Jack Rich* Carlos Rodriguez Rev. Leo Scott Lila Senter Scott Senter Steve Senter Marelyn Shedd* John Shelton, Jr Kim Snyder
Dian Graves Stai Dr. John C. Stevens Bob Surovik* David Swearingen Jimmy Tittle Sam Waldrop Kathy Webster Howard Wilkins Anthony Williams Stanley Wilson Bobbie L. Wolfe Williams P. Wright H. C. Zachry * Board Chairman Italics – deceased
Community Foundation of Abilene | A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 5
OUR Staff
EMERALD CASSIDY
Marketing and Communications Director
JENNIFER WEBER
BARBARA RICHERT
KATIE ALFORD
Office Administrator
Scholarship Director
KASSIDY NYGAARD
President / CEO
MISTI COLLIER
Donor Relations Director
Community Grants Manager
PATRICK LEWIS
Chief Financial Officer
DRU PRUITT
MICHELLE PARRISH Grants Director
Finance Administrator
Permit #18
PO Box 1001 • Abilene, TX 79604 cfabilene.org cfa@cfabilene.org Ph 325-676-3883
Abilene Gives is the Foundation’s largest community event, connecting community members with more than 170 nonprofits. Since its launch in 2017, Abilene Gives has raised more than $14 million. Abilene Gives makes a significant impact for charitable organizations serving our communities! The Community Foundation of Abilene is honored to host this giving day for the 10th consecutive year in 2026.
Learn more about Abilene Gives at abilenegives.org.
SAVE THE DATE Abilene Give s 2026 Tuesday, May 5 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.