2025 Annual Report: 30 Years of Amplified Giving

Dear Community Members,

We are proud to share our 2025 Annual Report, celebrating thirty years of amplifying giving with our donors and for our community. Since our founding, Greater Houston Community Foundation has helped individuals, families, foundations, and businesses channel their generosity in ways that create lasting impact. In 2025 alone, millions of dollars in grants went to the causes our donors care about most. This impact is only possible because of your trust, generosity, and belief in the Community Foundation as a partner in meaningful philanthropy.

“Amplified giving” isn’t just a phrase—it’s how we help donors make their giving easier, smarter, and more impactful. Donor advised funds have been central to the Community Foundation’s growth, providing the scaffolding for innovation and expanded services. Today, we continue to evolve our expertise to meet the changing needs of both donors and the community by offering a diverse range of giving vehicles and strategies. From donor advised funds and scholarships to corporate giving programs, multigenerational planning, and personalized philanthropic advising, our partnerships are all designed to bring your charitable vision to life and amplify your giving.

We’re proud to accept a variety of noncash assets—from business interests in private companies to appreciated publicly traded stock and real estate—that empower donors to make a lasting difference. At the same time, we continue to expand our role as a strategic philanthropic partner through programs such as our Professional Advisor Council, Family Giving Circle, Next Gen Donor Institute, Community Impact initiatives, and other tailored programs on important issues and topics held exclusively for our fundholders.

As our donors’ needs have grown, so have we. Through it all, we remain steadfast in honoring donor intent, listening closely, and providing the tools and guidance to make giving easy, efficient, and effective. By continuing to grow our expertise alongside our donors, we unlock new opportunities for impact, deepen our relationships, and amplify the effect of every gift.

In the pages ahead, you’ll see a few highlights of how the Community Foundation continues to make a difference in bigger and bolder ways—all made possible by community-minded individuals like you. On behalf of the Governing Board and the entire Community Foundation team, thank you for your trust, partnership, and enduring commitment to our community. Together, we are shaping a future of boundless generosity and lasting change for generations to come.

SINCERELY,

BOB HARVEY

Governing Board Chair

STEVE MAISLIN President & CEO

GRANTS BY PROGRAM AREA

Celebrating Houston-Based Grant Recipients

$1,500,000+

Houston Classical Charter School

Houston Wildcatters Youth Sports

New Hope Housing, Inc.

Pleasant Hill Community Development Corporation

Rice University

Texas Children’s Hospital

The Irvin M. Schlenker School of Congregation Beth Israel

$1,000,000–$1,499,999

Houston Food Bank

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, Inc.

Memorial Assistance Ministries

$500,000–$999,999

Baylor College of Medicine

Combined Arms

Congregation Beth Israel

Holocaust Museum Houston

Houston Center for Contemporary Craft

Houston Grand Opera Association, Inc.

Houston PetSet

Jewish Federation of Greater Houston K-9 Angels Rescue

Memorial Hermann Foundation

Menil Foundation, Inc.

Methodist Hospital Foundation

The Kinkaid School, Inc.

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Thrive With Autism Foundation

United Way of Greater Houston University of Houston

St. John’s School

Texas New Community Alliance

Monarch Community, Inc.

SpringSpirit, Inc.

The Brookwood Community

The Church of St. John the Divine

The Emery/Weiner Center for Jewish Education

The Faris Foundation

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Village Schools International Vision Galveston, Inc.

YES Prep Public Schools, Inc.

YMCA of the Greater Houston Area

Amounts shown represent 2025 funding awarded collectively to the listed organizations by Community Foundation fundholders.

Milestones of Impact

Each year since the Community Foundation’s inception has been filled with countless acts of amplified giving. Below is a snapshot of truly historic milestones that, in partnership with our donors, have shaped the Community Foundation into what it is today.

2002

1971

The Community Foundation was established under the Greater Houston Chamber of Commerce as a mechanism for Houstonians to enhance their community.

Retooled as a donor advised fund (DAF) provider. The Community Foundation is now the 23 th largest community foundation in the country and one of the most DAF-focused community foundations.

2009

1990

The Community Foundation was reconstituted as a public, independent charity.

2001

Steve Maislin hired as President & CEO.

The Community Foundation Council was established as a group of dedicated Houstonians who advocate for the Community Foundation, offering advice and serving as a referral source.

1995

The Community Foundation’s official “birth year.” It began active operations with assets of $3.6 million by year-end.

2005

Former President George H.W. Bush initiated an engagement with the Community Foundation related to Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts.

2014

Launched the Advisor Outreach Committee, a council of professional advisors who partner with the Community Foundation to develop tailored philanthropic solutions for their clients.

2023

The Community Foundation and United Way of Greater Houston established the Greater Houston Disaster Alliance to accelerate recovery during disaster. This philanthropic partnership evolved from the organizations’ joint efforts with recovery funds related to COVID-19 and the 2021 Winter Storm.

2015

Established the Center for Family Philanthropy, now a national leader in advising families on multigenerational giving. The Next Gen Donor Institute, established in 2011, equips participants with powerful, strategic philanthropic tools and today has over 170 alumni.

2017

Established the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund, the Community Foundation’s most significant relief effort to date, which raised $114 million.

2019

Launched Understanding Houston in collaboration with Rice University’s Kinder Institute for Urban Research as a central resource to measure what matters— empowering Houstonians to take informed action.

2024

Completed the inaugural High-Impact Grantmaking cycle, awarding $500,000 to three nonprofits with impactful, ambitious plans to address intergenerational poverty and advance economic mobility in Houston.

2025

Over $1.3 billion in assets under management. With nearly $3 billion in grants distributed since our inception, our growth has been fueled by the generosity and vision of those we serve.

30 Ways We Amplify Giving

For 30 years, we’ve made generosity simple, innovative, and impactful for philanthropists across Houston and beyond. With our expert guidance, we can help you maximize tax benefits, build an impactful legacy, and turn your philanthropic vision into action.

HOW WE’RE DIFFERENT

Investment in Houston

Concierge-Level Service

Network of Professional Advisors

Nonprofit Community Knowledge

Strategic Philanthropic Advising

Connection to Top Philanthropists

Educational Opportunities

Multigenerational Planning

Customized Giving

ELEVATED GIVING

Giving you the tools and guidance to give confidently.

Donor Advised Funds

Designated & Agency Funds

Field of Interest Funds

Legacy Funds

Scholarship Funds

Supporting Organizations

BUSINESSES DOING BETTER

Helping companies not just give, but lead.

Customized Corporate Philanthropy Programs

Corporate Giving Funds

Corporate Employee Disaster Relief Funds

Corporate Scholarship Funds

Employee Matching Gift Programs

TAILORED STRATEGIES

Designing personal, informed, and effective giving plans.

Customized Consulting & Giving Plans

Grants Management

Third-Party Investment Management

Values & Legacy Planning

Discover how we’ve helped donors amplify their giving—30 ways and counting.

GENERATIONAL GIVING

Engaging families across multiple generations to give with clarity.

Center for Family Philanthropy

Multigenerational Planning

Next Gen Donor Institute

Organizing Family Meetings

Youth Programming & Family Giving Circle

DATA-DRIVEN IMPACT

Providing the research, analysis, and information to ignite impact.

Understanding Houston

Landscape & Issue Analysis

Nonprofit Research

Topical Convenings & Events

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES

Enhancing your impact in Greater Houston.

Community Impact Fund

Greater Houston Disaster Alliance

High-Impact Grantmaking

Giving Circles & Donor Working Groups

CHARITABLE GIFT TYPES

The Community Foundation makes giving easy and flexible, offering multiple ways to support the causes you love today while building a lasting legacy for tomorrow.

Business Interests

Cash

Closely Traded Stock

Coins, Jewelry, & Art

Life Insurance

Privately Held Assets

Publicly Traded Stocks, Bonds, & Securities

Real Estate

Retirement Assets

Kevin Pickett Chief Advancement Officer

New Funds Driving Change

In 2025, Greater Houston Community Foundation welcomed 56 new partners and fundholders to our growing philanthropic community. Through donor advised funds, private foundation services, legacy planning, scholarship funds, and other giving vehicles, we are igniting meaningful change in our community and beyond. Below is a list of all new funds established in 2025.

Always Do Good Scholarship Fund

Anonymous Funds (13)

ATC CRUT Fund

Aubrey and Sylvia Farb Community Service Fund

Brian and Nikki Merrill Charitable Fund

Brisch Charitable Investments Fund

Coastal Preservation & Restoration Foundation

Comiskey Fund

David and Bonnie Weekley Fund

Desi D. Brown Foundation

Ever C. Goodie-Preston No More Waiting Fund

Fill the G.A.P. Foundation

Floyd Family Foundation

Forbes and Maddy Dumas Fund

Freeman Family Foundation

GHDA Disaster Recovery Fund

Houston Racquet Club Employee Scholarship Fund

Houston Rising Fund

Houston Shine FC (Afghan Women’s Soccer) Fund

Huff Boerwinkle Family Charitable Fund

Josh Paull Family Charitable Fund

JSR Foundation and Rister Family Donor Advised Fund

Kellyanne Elizabeth Lytal Memorial Foundation

McMinn Estate Distribution Fund

Negreros Zarzuelo Family Fund

Phillips 66 Social Impact Fund

Raymond and Ola Mae St. Germain Foundation Fund

Rex Mosser Foundation Scholarship Fund

Richard Ollman Donation Fund

Ruth and Douglas Kelly Fund

Strauss Family Charitable Fund

The Blakely McCrory Children’s Fund

The Florence and William K. McGee Jr. Family Foundation

The Forest Club Scholarship Fund

The Kao Foundation

The Katherine Ferruzzo Legacy Foundation

The Molly Claire DeWitt Legacy Fund

The Prism Fund

The Sandra Lyday Memorial Fund

The William A. Grieves, Jr. Foundation

Tracy and Ronnie Hallenberger Giving Fund

Valicek Family Foundation

Wells M. Johnson Recovery Foundation

Questions about opening a fund?

Tyler Murphy Senior Advisor,

Charitable Solutions

Your generosity isn’t just a drop in the bucket.

With a fund at Greater Houston Community Foundation, your generosity becomes a ripple that grows—amplifying your impact in Houston and beyond.

John R. Eckel, Jr.

A Passion for Collecting

John R. Eckel, Jr.’s legacy is similar to an unforgettable museum exhibition. Throughout his life, he collected not only many important works of art and design, but also people whom he nurtured and empowered. John was a thoughtful person with profound intellect, an excellent sense of humor, and great taste. His spirit of generosity resonated with everyone, whether it was with employees, friends, or ‘misfits.’ While he approached every person or organization he supported with the same thoughtful caution he applied when evaluating potential acquisitions for his company, many remember him as noble, generous, and deeply considerate.

AN UNWAVERING START

As the eldest of three siblings, John may have developed his unwavering perseverance early on. John first demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit when, at the age of ten, he talked his dad into “investing” in his first venture: a floating platform that helped students walking to school get across a creek, shaving time off their walk to Carnegie Elementary School.

Another notable detail from John’s youth is that, at just 16 years old and while attending Memorial High School, he made the significant decision to emancipate from his parents. He did this solely for the challenge and to legally demonstrate his fierce independence.

John attended Columbia University, graduating in 1973 with a degree in economics. His time in New York played a significant role in sparking his interest in the arts. After graduating, he worked in the financial services industry before transitioning to the energy sector, an interest shaped by both of his grandfathers’ involvement in oil and gas.

BUILDING TO PROSPER

In 1992, John founded Copano Energy, where he acquired numerous gas pipelines, starting with a 23-mile pipeline and eventually expanding to more than 6,000 miles of pipeline and seven processing plants across four states. His motto was “treat people fairly and respectfully and you will succeed,” which was evident to his employees. For example, when Copano Energy went public in 2004, he ensured that all employees received options in the IPO, regardless of their position within the company. He also had a “win/win” approach to doing business and wanted any counterpart in a negotiation to feel good, even when he had the upper hand.

After Copano Energy went public, John’s focus shifted from collecting gas pipelines to the arts— using his newfound resources to acquire artwork that museums coveted. When he first started collecting, he developed relationships with various galleries in New York City and Wright, an auction house in Chicago. More notable is how he relied on his instincts to cultivate his sophisticated collection.

It was evident to all that John took great delight in collecting. When you visited his office, you could find stacks of catalogs from various art auctions. In the span of four years, he amassed over 500 pieces of early 20th-century art, as well as modern and contemporary decorative art and furniture. His impressive collection focused on a select group of American designers and artists, including Ralston Crawford, Paul Evans, Harry Bertoia, and Edward Wormley. His pieces were stored in warehouses in New York City, Houston, and Chicago, or in his apartments in Houston or New York.

John’s era as an art collector came to an abrupt halt when he passed away too soon and too quickly in 2009. He was just at the beginning of entering a phase of life where he could enjoy the fruits of his hard work and determination.

A LEGACY ETCHED IN COLOR

In 2011, the John R. Eckel, Jr. Foundation (Eckel Foundation) was established in partnership with Greater Houston Community Foundation, before John himself had the opportunity to formalize his philanthropic legacy. Under his estate plan, Doug Lawing, current President of the Eckel Foundation, was given the authority to distribute the estate’s significant charitable portion.

Doug met John in the 1990s through friends, eventually becoming General Counsel at Copano Energy. Their professional relationship was always rooted in friendship, leading to Doug’s role with the Eckel Foundation. “I took on my role as a result of my friendship with John, my respect for him, and the fact that he wasn’t afforded the time to build his own philanthropic legacy,” Doug noted humbly. “My goal is to honor his too-short life and what he stood for. It’s a real privilege for me.”

Because John had indicated that he did not desire the assets to be distributed over a short period, Doug formed a private foundation. For Doug, this was the most obvious and best option for distributing his philanthropic assets over a more extended period.

Early on, several significant grants were awarded to institutions that John admired, including support for the Menil Drawing Institute and the endowment of a Professor of Financial Economics at Columbia University. Some of the Eckel Foundation’s more notable and legacy-making support was the establishment of the Eckel Foundation galleries at the Whitney Museum of Modern Art (Whitney) and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH). The Eckel Foundation’s donation of 73 works of modernist American painting, sculpture, photography, and contemporary art to the MFAH significantly enhanced the museum’s collection. Doug recalls, “As the executor of his estate, I sent a list of items to both the MFAH and Whitney, and they responded with a list of the works they desired. Luckily, there was no significant overlap on what each museum desired.”

When speaking about the support the Eckel Foundation receives from the Community Foundation, Doug shared, “The administrative support that the Community Foundation provides is crucial in allowing the Eckel Foundation to operate efficiently and with limited staff. It allows us to focus on grants and the

nonprofits we support, knowing that accounting and other administrative functions are in good hands. The Community Foundation provides a service that all smaller private foundations should consider—it makes the day-to-day operations of a foundation much easier.” When you partner with the Community Foundation, you gain access to a suite of services all structured to simplify your foundation’s operations.

More recently, the Eckel Foundation’s focus has generally been on providing operating support for the visual arts in Houston, regularly supporting museum exhibitions, acquisitions, and special projects. While the Eckel Foundation’s primary geographic focus is on Houston, it recognizes John’s former ties by continuing to support a few organizations in New York City.

Let’s make your philanthropic goals a reality.

Rebecca Hove Managing Director of Strategic Philanthropy

ART SHARED, LIVES TOUCHED

The ripples of John’s generosity are felt by hundreds, if not thousands, of people daily. His decorative art and furniture collection has a prominent presence at the MFAH. Currently, John’s sculptures created by Harry Bertoia are on long-term display at the MFAH, a beautiful installation that Doug encourages a visit to. Additionally, Dr. Harrison Hong, the John R. Eckel, Jr. Professor of Financial Economics at Columbia University, received a Guggenheim Fellowship in 2025. In New York City, visitors to the Whitney can enjoy the Eckel Foundation Gallery without purchasing a ticket.

Doug reflected on how John would feel about his impact, saying, “It was always difficult to gauge John’s reaction to anything, but I do feel he would be pleased with the Eckel Foundation’s focus and how we’ve made several higher-profile gifts, which underscores his interest in the visual arts and his love for his alma mater, Columbia. John was an amazing person, and I felt it important that he be remembered for his love of the visual arts and his generosity of spirit.”

As the saying goes, true wealth lies not in what we keep, but in what we share—something that John demonstrated with individuals and institutions. Houston is fortunate to have numerous generous foundations and individuals supporting the arts, and the Eckel Foundation plays a notable role in sustaining the vibrancy of Houston’s impressive arts infrastructure.

You’re a strategic thinker. Apply that to your giving.

A donor advised fund with Greater Houston Community Foundation helps you turn your generosity into lasting impact—with flexibility, tax benefits, and a deeper connection to the community you love.

A Legacy Rooted in Humility Sarah and J.C. Howell

Sarah and J.C. Howell were both born in Houston one day apart, but their upbringings were starkly different.

Sarah’s family was known for its philanthropy, and her childhood was rooted in a deep commitment to giving back. As a child, she watched her mother, Vale Asche Russell, and her aunt, Bettyann Asche Murray, run two separate family foundations. Still, they often collaborated to make grantmaking decisions. Additionally, Sarah attended several prestigious schools, including St. John’s School in Houston.

Conversely, J.C. grew up knowing that education would propel him forward. Through hard work and determination, he gained admission to Stanford, unlocking many opportunities for him. J.C. noted, “I had a great education, which gave me an advantage.”

Ultimately, a large part of J.C.’s career was spent as an investment banker, and as a young professional, he was focused on his career with little time to enjoy the rewards of his work, let alone give back. It wasn’t until he married Sarah and witnessed the generosity woven into her family’s fabric that he truly embraced purposeful giving.

Sarah said that her mother was the greatest example of living a generous life, stating, “My mom had the opportunity to give back, which she passed on to me.” Vale loved working for the ValeAsche Foundation, which was founded by Sarah’s grandfather and great-grandfather. Watching Vale and Bettyann thoughtfully go through grant requests and dedicate so much time to their family’s philanthropy was inspiring, but Sarah acknowledged how burdensome it could be at times.

SHAPING A LEGACY THROUGH PARTNERSHIP

After Sarah’s aunt passed away and as her mother aged, it became evident that the next generation would soon need to take over their family foundations. Sarah and J.C. worried about being buried in paperwork after witnessing how cumbersome it is to administer a private foundation.

Based on their professional advisor’s recommendation, Sarah and J.C. decided to partner with Greater Houston Community Foundation to sunset the Vale-Asche Foundation and open donor advised funds. “I realized the tools that the Community Foundation provided allowed me to seek out the types of charities I want to support with ease,” Sarah explained. By leveraging a donor advised fund with the Community Foundation, the Howells reduced administrative burdens, attained immediate tax benefits, gained flexibility on when they award grants, and unlocked potential investment growth—all while receiving expert guidance from the Community Foundation’s Philanthropic Advisors.

Additionally, Sarah and J.C. partnered with the Community Foundation to plan their own philanthropic legacy. J.C. went on to say, “The Community Foundation’s legacy program has given us peace of mind. Now we don’t worry about what is going to happen to these funds when we are gone, and the team did a great job educating us on all our estate planning options.” Through this planning, Sarah and J.C. formalized in detail how their philanthropic dollars will achieve their charitable goals.

The Howells acknowledged that legacy planning isn’t easy to talk about. However, when Sarah was diagnosed with breast cancer, their estate planning and, in turn, their charitable legacy, became a priority. J.C. shared, “We don’t have children, and we were a bit stressed about what was going to happen. We approached legacy planning as another aspect of our will. However, the will has all the morbid details; this is the fun stuff.” Sarah expanded, “It was nice to get it all papered out. We felt a serenity knowing this was taken care of, and we can change things if our priorities shift.”

FOCUSED GIVING

Together, Sarah and J.C. prioritize a variety of causes. With Sarah almost reaching her fifth year being cancer-free, women’s health has emerged as a focus. Additionally, in 2012, Sarah and J.C. moved to Montana after both spending the prior 48 years in Houston. While they still feel that Houston is home, living in Montana has awakened their passion for preserving large areas of land, especially in regions experiencing rapid residential growth.

The Howells are also unified in believing that education shapes lives and communities. J.C. noted, “Without an education, there are so many fewer opportunities to succeed and so many more opportunities to do the wrong thing.” Sarah expanded, “If you teach people a trade, then they have the opportunity to have a sustainable livelihood.”

VISIONARY SUPPORT

Thanks to the visionary support of Sarah and J.C. Howell, the Community Foundation launched the Houston Opportunity Scholarship in 2025, a new avenue for collaborative giving. In 2026, the Howells’ funding of this scholarship program will give special consideration to students pursuing careers in education or medicine—including nursing, pre-med, and two-year programs—equipping the next generation of professionals to serve our communities.

J.C. explained their preference for these particular fields, “Lack of education is a huge social barrier, and these professions are often overlooked—getting younger students interested in these fields is important.” Sarah added, “Whether it is a four-year degree or an associate degree, education is a door opener. Hopefully, these students can all do well and prosper.”

Sarah shared their motivation for supporting the Houston Opportunity Scholarship, “We were thinking about setting up our own scholarship fund. The Community Foundation team recommended that we fund the Houston Opportunity Scholarship at a level that would give us a say in which fields of study we consider critical. In this way, we can refine what our personal scholarship funding goals are, gain an understanding of the scholarship landscape, and put our big ideas out on the table before we pen them down and create a scholarship of our own.”

J.C. continued, “The timing was right. Supporting the Houston Opportunity Scholarship helps us learn about what our long-term plans could be. Also, we aren’t experts; we have no previous experience with scholarships, so this process is incredibly educational.”

FROM GRATITUDE TO GIVING

In speaking with the Howells about their philanthropic journey, one thing becomes clear: their giving is rooted in humility, not a desire for recognition. Throughout the conversation, Sarah and J.C. expressed their deep gratitude for the opportunity to be in this position and for the profound joy they find in giving back. Sarah closed our conversation with, “You can’t take it with you, but think about what greatness you can leave behind.”

“You can’t take it with you, but think about what greatness you can leave behind.”

—Sarah Howell

Houston Opportunity Scholarship

For Houstonians, Funded by Houstonians

In 2025, the Community Foundation expanded its commitment to helping philanthropists create pathways to academic success with the Houston Opportunity Scholarship. Houston is home to a higher-education system full of brilliant individuals, and the Houston Opportunity Scholarship enables investment in homegrown talent. Funders, whether individuals, foundations, or businesses, will join a collaborative effort that assists high-potential students in building meaningful careers. At the same time, the Community Foundation handles all the details, ensuring your impact on Greater Houston is seamless.

2026 Opportunities

GIVING LEVELS

No matter the level of giving, every gift makes a meaningful difference—helping students achieve their dreams and strengthening Greater Houston.

GIFTS UNDER $99,999: General Support

• Be a part of a collaborative fund administered by the Community Foundation that pools resources from multiple donors to provide broad-based scholarship support.

$100,000-$499,999: Name Your Own Award

• Includes all opportunities open to general supporters.

• Establish a named scholarship award to create a personal legacy and connection with recipients. For example: The Martinez Family Legacy Award

• Receive thank-you notes from the student(s) your gift supports and see firsthand the difference you’re making.

$500,000+: Deepen Your Involvement

• Includes all opportunities available to donors who give $499,999 or less.

• Join an annual meeting with program leaders about the impact of your contributions.

• Customize your scholarship preferences by prioritizing students in a particular field of study that aligns with your values or interests.

2026 ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

• Graduating senior from select public high schools located in Harris, Fort Bend, or Montgomery Counties.

• Minimum GPA of 2.5.

• First-generation college student with a demonstrated financial need and a history of community service.

• Plan to attend a two- or four-year public college, university, or vocational school within Greater Houston.

• In 2026, preference will be given to students pursuing careers in education or medicine.

After a pilot program in 2026, the program will expand to more schools.

2026 AWARD AMOUNTS

The Scholarship’s awards will be renewable, meaning if students continue to meet eligibility requirements, the awards will be renewed each year.

• $60,000 per student attending a four-year institution ($15,000 per year)

• $10,000 per student attending a two-year institution ($5,000 per year)

Help open doors—invest in education today.

Courtney Grymonprez Scholarships Manager

Shining Legacies Amid a Storm

When Disaster Strikes, Community Answers When Disaster Strikes, Community Answers

REMEMBERING WITH LOVE, GIVING, AND PURPOSE

The 2025 Guadalupe River flooding that swept through the Texas Hill Country brought heartbreaking loss and devastation, leaving families, friends, and neighbors forever changed. Amid the grief, we hold close the memories of the lives taken too soon, remembering the love they radiated and shared with the world.

Greater Houston Community Foundation has partnered with seven families to honor the lives of their daughters lost in these catastrophic floods. Each beloved girl radiated joy, their smiles beaming with kindness and their hearts reflecting a light that uplifted others. Though their time was too brief, they all left a beautiful, enduring legacy—a reflection of compassion, friendship, and unwavering wonder. These funds each serve as a lasting tribute, ensuring their lights continue to shine and brighten the lives of others in the community they so deeply touched.

We invite you to honor the lives and legacies of the 27 campers and counselors who died during the July floods at Camp Mystic by supporting Heaven’s 27 Fund—a joint donor advised fund established through the San Antonio Area Foundation—ensuring the names of these girls are cherished and their impact continues to shine for generations to come.

Periodically, funds contributed to Heaven’s 27 Fund will be distributed equally to each girl’s fund. The individual families will then use their portion for things such as providing scholarships, funding youth programs, supporting vulnerable groups, and other outlets to spread joy and hope in their daughters’ names.

SUPPORTING CENTRAL TEXAS FLOOD RECOVERY

The Community Foundation is honored to stand alongside our neighbors and partners in times of profound hardship. In the wake of devastating flooding in Central Texas, we remain committed to supporting immediate relief and long-term recovery for those most affected. We are deeply grateful for the compassion and generosity shown by our fundholders and staff, whose response to these tragic events includes the following efforts:

• In 2025, thanks to the generosity of our Community Foundation donors, more than 175 gifts totaling over $3.6 million have been directed to support relief and recovery, reflecting the compassion and care of our community.

• The Community Foundation compiled a list of vetted organizations providing relief in the region to help guide strategic giving.

• We have offered thought partnership to community foundations in the region—including the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country and San Angelo Area Foundation—in key areas such as fund activation, grantmaking processes, and program design.

• The Community Foundation facilitated an introduction to Connective, which has now been contracted by the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country to provide advisory services, needs assessment support, program design services, and staffing for their relief fund’s housing advisory council.

River Oaks Country Club Employee Scholarship Rooted in Connection

River Oaks Country Club (ROCC) is widely regarded across the country as a premier private club and is a leading innovator among Houston-area clubs. In 2005, Joe Bendy, Chief Operating Officer and General Manager, hosted a meeting asking all of the Club’s department managers: “If you could wave a magic wand, what would you do, implement, or change at River Oaks?” One suggestion was for ROCC to create an employee scholarship program. Before long, the idea was in motion, driven by the determination of Club members ready to take charge.

FROM VISION TO REALITY

In 2005, ROCC connected with Greater Houston Community Foundation to chart a path forward together. Joe recollected, “The Community Foundation initially helped us visualize how the program could work. Additionally, we had several Club members who were involved with the Community Foundation, so it was the logical partner for us.” In 2006, the first ROCC Employee Scholarships were awarded, and the program has subsequently grown each year. Since its inception, the program has awarded $2,069,750 through 580 scholarship awards. In 2025 alone, over $200,000 in scholarships were awarded to 54 students.

To celebrate these achievements and honor the recipients, ROCC hosts an Annual Scholarship Luncheon for scholars and their families where many Club members attend, especially the Club’s Scholarship Committee and Board. “The pride on the faces of the recipients and their families when the recipient receives their scholarship certificate speaks for itself,” Nicola Ellis, Human Resources Director, said.

DRIVEN BY MEMBERS

Fueled entirely by the generosity of its membership, the program’s success is a testament to their dedication and shared vision for impact. Kim Petersen, Committee Chair said, “There is a great sense of community and pride within the membership based on the success of the recipients.” Kim added that, “Many of these students are the first in their family to attend college. Many club members also serve as mentors to the recipients and can help them find employment post-graduation.”

Annually, the Club’s resolute Scholarship Committee collaborates with the Community Foundation to set criteria, guidelines, and refine the program. Recently, the Club partnered with the Community Foundation to deliver annual information sessions in Spanish to the Club’s Spanish-speaking population. “The Community Foundation team makes managing the scholarship virtually effortless on our part,” shared Nicola, “ensuring compliance with IRS regulations and enhancing the credibility and sustainability of our scholarship program.”

IMPROVEMENTS FOR GREATER IMPACT

ROCC has recognized that one-time support is not enough—many scholarship recipients need continued funding to complete their academic journeys. To meet this need, the Club provides renewable scholarships, helping its students graduate without overwhelming financial burdens. Originally set at $4,000 and $2,000 per year for four- and two-year institutions, awards have grown to $5,000 and $3,000 annually and can be renewed five times.

While the Club supports students pursuing hospitality, its recipients study a variety of fields, including business, healthcare, and even aerospace engineering. Joe recalled, “One particularly memorable scholarship recipient from 2025 works at the Club as a stewarding assistant. He received a scholarship to study English language skills. At our Annual Scholarship Luncheon, he moved the audience to a round of applause by delivering his thank-you speech entirely in English.”

SETTING THE STANDARD

ROCC was one of the first Houston-area country clubs to partner with the Community Foundation for its scholarship program. Largely due to the influence of ROCC, six other Houston-area country clubs have partnered with the Community Foundation for their scholarship programs. Nicola conveyed, “We are excited to have been in a position to provide a roadmap for other Clubs to develop the confidence to create their own scholarship program. The results truly speak for themselves.”

What began as an idea has grown into lasting impact. It’s inspiring to see how the ROCC members—at the helm every step of the way—have turned vision into reality, shaping a future full of possibilities for not only ROCC scholarship recipients, but for employees of private clubs throughout Houston.

Unlock opportunities—give the gift of education.

Courtney Grymonprez Scholarships Manager

Family Giving Circle

Houston Students Making an Impact

The Family Giving Circle is a cohort of students in grades 7–12 from schools across Houston. These students learn, volunteer, and grant together in support of the greater Houston community. Family Giving Circle members, guided by its Youth Leadership Team, explore the local nonprofit landscape and practice thoughtful, strategic grantmaking. Additionally, the Youth Leadership Team curates the programming for our annual Family Philanthropy Day event, providing a platform for members to showcase how their philanthropic expertise has evolved.

Through this experience, members develop their values, strengthen independent decision-making skills, and grow as confident, compassionate leaders. Since 2017, the Family Giving Circle has distributed over $200,000 in grants to almost 50 Houston-area nonprofits working on issues such as youth homelessness, animal rights, veterans, foster care, human trafficking, literacy, food insecurity, and more.

“What’s unique about the Family Giving Circle is that it’s led by teens. We come together, decide on the causes we want to support, and then make a real impact through grants and volunteer activities.”

–

Ethan Kao, Family Giving Circle Alum

2024-2025 FAMILY GIVING CIRCLE

In 2025, the Family Giving Circle supported nonprofit organizations that help alleviate the financial burdens (including temporary housing, food costs, etc.) faced by patients, families, and caregivers seeking medical assistance in the Texas Medical Center. Learn more about the grantees:

His Grace Foundation ($10,000) provides physical, emotional, and financial support to patients and families of the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at Texas Children’s Hospital.

Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Houston ($5,000) provides support, resources, and housing for families with children receiving medical care in hospitals across Greater Houston.

The Ballard House ($15,000) offers no-cost, temporary housing for individuals and caregivers undergoing treatment in Houston, Texas—a comforting refuge on the path to healing.

2024-2025 MEMBERS

Carlos Cabarcas Bob Lanier Middle School

Bella Chramosta* Episcopal High School

Billy Dinerstein The Kinkaid School

Molly Dinerstein* The Kinkaid School

Jack Hartman* Episcopal High School

Janie Hartman Episcopal High School

Juliette Hess* The Emery/Weiner School

Lillian (Lily) Johnson* Memorial High School

Caroline LaFauci Episcopal High School

Christopher Laporte St. John’s School

Ellie Lohse Memorial High School

Emily Pesikoff St. John’s School

Jonathan Sweetland* The Kinkaid School

Ellie Tellepsen* Memorial High School

Dylan Vettical* St. Thomas High School

Anna Wizel The Kinkaid School

Cooper Ying* The Emery/Weiner School

*Indicates they served on the Youth Leadership Team.

Cooper Ying Empowering Youth Voices

Cooper Ying, a senior at The Emery/Weiner School and Youth Leadership Team member in Greater Houston Community Foundation’s 2024-2025 Family Giving Circle, has always admired his two older sisters, Sydney and Emory Ying. As he observed his sisters engage in the Family Giving Circle, Cooper found himself reflecting on the kind of impact he wanted to make: empowering others to find their voices.

GUIDED BY FAMILY

Sydney and Emory modeled kindness and leadership. Cooper shared, “Younger kids tend to pay more attention to older kids than they do to adults. A huge part of what inspired me was watching my older sisters when I was younger. They constantly showed up for other people, and it made me realize that anybody can help.”

Cooper also credits his parents, Anita and Alan Ying, for fostering his spirit of service by exposing him to real-world challenges and opportunities. This exposure allowed him to formulate his own philanthropic opinions and values. The independence that Cooper’s parents gave him in cultivating a commitment to his community enabled service to be an organic part of his life—he never felt that contributing to the community was forced upon him.

FROM PARTICIPANT TO ADVOCATE

Following in his sisters’ footsteps, Cooper has also joined the Community Foundation’s Family Giving Circle. He is now the “older kid” serving as a role model for other young changemakers. Through his participation in this program, Cooper has been educated about various issues affecting many Houstonians—an eye-opening experience. He cited one example, “Living in Houston, I knew that many people often travel here to get cancer treatment. But what I never really thought about was the drastic financial burden of not only the treatment, but also the cost of travel and housing.”

Cooper acknowledges how fortunate he is to have the opportunity to engage with and learn about many pressing challenges that Houstonians face. Cooper conveyed, “If you are lucky enough, like me, to learn about these issues, how can you just continue sitting around without helping to fix them?” His experience with Family Giving Circle has empowered him to do more than just volunteer. Cooper has gained a deeper understanding of his community, recognized its disparities, and learned how to support efforts that help bridge those gaps.

In November of 2025, Cooper’s community leadership skills were on display at the Community Foundation’s 2025 Family Philanthropy Day. Alongside several other youth leaders, Cooper helped deliver a powerful message. He stated, “Change starts small: one act of kindness, one idea, one voice. And when we come together, we amplify those voices and their impact.” At the event, attendees walked away with an understanding that every action, no matter its size or scope, and every voice, regardless of age, can make a meaningful difference in strengthening the community.

It is natural, especially for teens, to feel overwhelmed or unsure about where to begin on their community service journey. Cooper said, “Many people are open and willing to help, but don’t know where to begin. That was me before the Family Giving Circle. It taught me how to use my voice effectively for the greater good while keeping me accountable.”

LOOKING AHEAD

What’s next for Cooper? He shared, “I hope to take what I learned in Family Giving Circle and use it to teach and empower others to make a positive difference.” As a soonto-be college freshman, Cooper is looking ahead to the next chapter of his life. Though he will not be able to participate in the Family Giving Circle as he does now, Cooper stressed, “Just because I may be living elsewhere, that does not mean I won’t stop giving back.”

Cooper closed with, “At the end of the day, people want someone to listen to them; they want to be heard no matter what it is about. I want to be that someone for as many people as I can,” Cooper expressed. Cooper’s journey is a refreshing reminder that, with a willingness to listen, care, and act, meaningful change can happen anywhere.

A Decade of Collective Impact

For 10 years, Greater Houston Community Foundation has hosted Family Philanthropy Day, a multigenerational volunteer event for families with children ages five or older, offering them an opportunity to volunteer, learn, and give back. Each year, this event has a unique focus. From promoting literacy and increasing mental health awareness to reducing homelessness and combating food insecurity, our volunteers work alongside organizations addressing some of Houston’s most pressing challenges.

A LOOK BACK

From assembling disaster preparedness kits to packaging food bags and hygiene kits for refugees, our volunteers have consistently met urgent needs with compassion and care. Volunteers have contributed to beautifying and organizing spaces—painting walls, building furniture, landscaping gardens, and organizing supply rooms and food pantries—creating welcoming environments for those served.

Our youngest volunteers have brought creativity and joy through projects like creating murals, decorating lunch sacks, and making heartfelt holiday and encouragement cards for children or seniors in need. Community drives have also played a key role, especially during the pandemic, with volunteers donating non-perishable items, hosting book drives, and assembling snack packs for people experiencing hardships. Year after year, our volunteers have shown that small acts of kindness, multiplied over time, can create lasting change.

Through our collaborations with organizations, foundations, companies, and especially our nonprofit partners, we educate, engage, and inspire giving across Greater Houston—work we couldn’t do without them. Our youth volunteers, all emerging changemakers, gain deeper community insight while reinforcing the value of service across generations. Thank you to our partners for helping curate meaningful volunteer experiences over the past decade:

Atherton Elementary School

BakerRipley

Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation

Bo’s Place*

Books Between Kids

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Houston

Brighter Bites

Candlelighters*

Children’s Museum Houston*

CHRISTUS St. Mary’s Clinic

City of Houston Youth Ambassadors*

CollegeCommunityCareer

Command

Covenant House Texas

DePelchin Children’s Center*

Easter Seals Greater Houston*

Faithful Paws Pet Therapy*

Generation SERVE

Greater Houston Disaster Alliance

Houston Food Bank

Houston Children Give Back

Houston Improvement Project Interfaith Ministries

Kids’ Meals

KIPP

Marathon Oil Company Meals on Wheels

Mental Health America of Greater Houston*

Project C.U.R.E.*

SEARCH

St. John’s School

Theatre Under The Stars

The City of Houston Championing Change Youth Ambassadors Program

The Basics Houston (Houston Health Foundation)*

The Health Museum*

The Salvation Army Greater Houston Area

University of Houston College of Education

Youth Philanthropy Connect

Youth Service America

Youth Voice for Small Business

Volunteer Houston

Wesley Community Center*

*Indicates they were a 10th Annual Family Philanthropy Day partner.

FAMILY PHILANTHROPY DAY CHAMPIONS

In 2023, we began inviting our community to help sustain this program—and the response has been extraordinary. With heartfelt gratitude, we thank our generous sponsors, consisting of families and businesses, who have supported this event.

Lacey and Matt Goossen

Kingspoint Insurance Agency, Inc.*

Sage Sure*

The Kao Family

The Laporte Family

TM2 Family Fund*

Jennifer & Neil Wizel Family Fund

*Indicates multiple years of support.

YOUTH LEADERSHIP IN ACTION

Our Youth Leadership Team, comprised of passionate high school leaders from our Family Giving Circle, is at the heart of every Family Philanthropy Day. These young community leaders facilitate thoughtprovoking panel discussions, organize hands-on activities for younger volunteers, and ensure that every program is impactful and engaging. Family Philanthropy Day is an opportunity for our Youth Leadership Team to grow as community leaders and public speakers, while simultaneously learning to lead with empathy, collaboration, and purpose.

SUCCESSFUL FAMILY PHILANTHROPY

Family philanthropy often includes direct financial contributions, volunteering time and expertise, creating formal giving structures, and engaging in efforts that reflect a family’s collective philanthropic vision. At the Community Foundation, we believe in the power of multigenerational dialogue and connection, and we’re here to ensure your efforts are as impactful and meaningful as possible.

Bring your family together to make an impact.

Jennifer Touchet Vice President of Personal & Family Philanthropy

2025 Family Philanthropy Day

Ready, Set…Amplify!

The 10th Family Philanthropy Day, held at The Health Museum, celebrated two meaningful milestones: the Community Foundation’s 30th anniversary and a decade of Family Philanthropy Day. These anniversaries are a powerful reminder of how, in partnership with philanthropic families, the Community Foundation helps shape Houston for the better.

The event opened with a session curated by two members of our Family Giving Circle’s Youth Leadership Team, Cooper Ying, a senior at The Emery/Weiner School, and Sebastian Higgins, a freshman at Strake Jesuit College Preparatory. They were joined by several impressive youth panelists, all of whom have used their voices to advocate for change or to uplift a cause they are passionate about, highlighting that, no matter the age, anyone can ignite meaningful impact.

Bryan Zhao, Founder & President of Youth Voices for Small Business and a senior at Awty International School

Madison Petaway, 2020 Youth Poet Laureate and a former member of Meta4 Houston

Sawsan Busari, City of Houston Youth Ambassador and a senior at Elsik High School

Michael Antonio, City of Houston Youth Ambassador and a senior at Blanson CTE High School

2025 IMPACT

Participants created holiday cards, Thanksgiving craft kits, medical kits, and other interactive kits for kids for Bo’s Place, Candlelighters, Project C.U.R.E., Basics-Houston Health Foundation, and Wesley Community Center. For Depelchin’s Children’s Center and CHRISTUS St. Mary’s Clinic, volunteers assembled essential hygiene kits and no-sew fleece blankets for unhoused and elderly individuals. They even prepared supplies for Children’s Museum Houston’s Seasons of Sharing programming—materials to create Khanda Mosaics, a symbol of Sikhism.

Our volunteers also crafted communication books for infants for families at Easter Seals Greater Houston. They made 100 bracelets for patients at Texas Children’s that dogs will deliver through Faithful Paws Pet Therapy. Additional stations included card-making and letter-writing for veterans in the Veteran Outreach Program at Mental Health America Greater Houston, and organizing blood-testing and DNA-sorting kits for The Health Museum. Every activity at the event was more than just a hands-on project—it was an opportunity for volunteers to learn about new issue areas and engage in meaningful conversations about giving and community awareness.

2025 VOLUNTEER DAYS

Our Volunteer Days are intimate gatherings held on Saturday mornings, designed for families with children ages five and older to engage in age-appropriate activities that promote generosity, teamwork, and a sense of giving back. In 2025, we hosted volunteer days at:

At The Women’s Home, families created Valentine’s Day cards and assembled cleaning supply bags for new, incoming residents. The Women’s Home builds communities that strengthen women and support families as they reclaim their stability, envisioning a world where every woman embraces her unique value and potential for a life filled with love, dignity, and purpose.

At Urban Harvest, our volunteers helped spread mulch, watered food crops, planted saplings, removed weeds, picked up litter, and learned about composting. Urban Harvest transforms food accessibility in Greater Houston by fostering strong partnerships with local farmers and gardeners, operating Farmers’ Markets, initiating mobile markets, and providing comprehensive garden education.

At Sandal Gap Studio, families rolled up their sleeves to create crafts and paint walls to brighten up the studio. Sandal Gap Studio bridges the gap between society and individuals with disabilities through art, building a community rooted in acceptance and understanding, which sets it apart as a beacon of belonging.

Interested in family volunteering or engaging in another learning experience?

Annie Hurwitz Director of Donor Engagement & Learning

Corporate Employee Matching Gift Programs Empowering Employees to Transform Communities

In today’s purpose-driven workplace, an impactful way businesses are turning values into action is through employee matching gift programs. Matching gift programs are a company-sponsored benefit that matches employees’ donations to qualifying nonprofits, typically dollar-for-dollar, up to a preset annual limit per employee.

Recognizing this powerful opportunity to amplify giving, Greater Houston Community Foundation formally launched its Corporate Employee Matching Gift Program in 2025. Designed to support employee well-being, strengthen corporate reputation, and foster lasting loyalty, the Community Foundation’s program helps build a culture of giving—one match at a time.

A SMALL INVESTMENT WITH EXPONENTIAL RETURNS

Corporate employee matching gift programs are more than just a feel-good perk; they help drive business success. Employee giving programs offer a host of positive outcomes for both companies and communities. For businesses, they can lead to:

Stronger employee engagement and retention.

Enhanced corporate reputation, attracting top talent and loyal customers.

Deeper community partnerships with local nonprofits.

For communities, these programs provide reliable funding streams for nonprofits, helping address pressing societal challenges—from education and healthcare to disaster relief and housing.

BUILD A PROGRAM THAT WORKS

For 30 years, the Community Foundation has been at the forefront of helping businesses design and implement robust corporate philanthropy programs. Now, the Community Foundation builds strategic matching gift programs that amplify employees’ giving.

Define what success looks like. Is it participation rates, total dollars raised, or impact on specific causes?

Offer multiple ways to participate. Let employees pick how they want to contribute—whether it’s payroll deductions, time off to volunteer, or matching gifts.

Make it easy for employees. Use technology to streamline giving.

Measure your effectiveness.

Track participation, donation amounts, and community outcomes to gauge your impact.

Motivate employees to give. Celebrate milestones and keep the conversation going throughout the year.

OUR APPROACH

Successfully launching a matching gift program requires careful planning and phased implementation. The Community Foundation works closely with companies to tailor programs to their unique culture and goals. Whether it’s a small business launching its first initiative or a large corporation expanding its philanthropic reach, the Community Foundation provides the expertise to make giving easy and effective.

Application

We provide the application link, finalize the match amount, and handle other details before going live.

Employees Donate

Employees complete the application and submit gift receipts as proof of donations.

Check Eligibility

We notify you of the application and request confirmation of the employee’s eligibility.

Confirmation

We complete the due diligence and send the match to grantees.

Impact Reporting

We provide comprehensive impact reporting to help you measure the benefits of your giving programs.

REAL-WORLD IMPACT: PERRY HOMES

One standout example of a successful corporate employee matching initiative is the Perry Homes Employee Match Program. In partnership with the Community Foundation, Perry Homes invited employees to amplify charitable impact with a donation matched by the Perry Homes Foundation between November 1 and December 3—a nod to Giving Tuesday. This program was designed so its team members can support the causes that matter most to them and make a genuine difference.

The Community Foundation handled the administrative burden of implementing the corporate matching gift program, from creating the application and conducting any due diligence needed to writing checks to deserving organizations. Mike Brisch, Perry Homes’ Chief Legal and Administrative Officer, explains, “The Community Foundation is a trusted, strategic partner that allows us to maximize the impact of our charitable efforts and strengthens our brand as a company committed to community investment and meaningful impact. Their expertise and shared purpose ensure that every dollar we contribute is directed to worthy organizations.” The Community Foundation streamlined the matching gift process, collaborating closely with the Perry Homes team to maximize their impact.

MEANINGFUL CHANGE

For companies ready to take the next step, the Community Foundation offers a range of services with one simple goal: to make giving easy, meaningful, and transformative.

Ready to get your employees to give?

Stephanie Blair Senior Director of Corporate Relations

Service Corporation International A Passion for Compassion

Service Corporation International (SCI) is North America’s leading provider of funeral, cremation, and cemetery services. As the people who support families during their most difficult times, SCI has created a culture of compassion for both the families it serves and the associates it employs.

AUTHENTIC SUPPORTING

SCI developed a community engagement strategy centered on three key missions: honoring veterans, providing grief support, and celebrating the gift of life through organ, eye, and tissue donation. These focus areas were intentionally chosen to align with the company’s core values, the nature of its work, and the causes its associates care most about, ensuring authenticity in its philanthropic efforts.

“Our community outreach programs are deeply rooted in our commitment to provide comfort during difficult times. From honoring veterans and their families to offering grief support for caregivers to recognizing the life-saving gifts of organ, eye, and tissue donation, we are dedicated to supporting causes that enhance the well-being of our communities.”

– Eric Tanzberger, Exec. Vice President & CFO at SCI

EXTENDING THE TEAM

Since 2011, SCI has partnered with Greater Houston Community Foundation, awarding over $18,628,275 through multiple charitable vehicles, including a corporate donor advised fund, a scholarship program, and an employee disaster relief fund. In 2025 alone, SCI contributed over $5.6 million to nonprofits across the U.S. in partnership with the Community Foundation.

Jay Andrew, AVP Corporate Communications at SCI, said, “By partnering with the Community Foundation to administer our donor advised fund, scholarship program, and employee disaster relief fund, we’ve been able to shift the administrative burden off our team. This allows us to focus on our core mission while also streamlining our operations. The Community Foundation’s support ensures our programs are still run accurately, ethically, and in alignment with our caring culture.”

Beyond day-to-day administration, the Community Foundation is a true partner, serving as an extension of SCI’s team. Jay said, “We leaned heavily on the Community Foundation to provide guidance on following IRS guidance related to bifurcated gifts. They were able to guide us through how to administer funds to the community while remaining compliant.”

The Community Foundation simplifies SCI’s processes, working alongside its community engagement team to help maximize impact.

PUTTING ASSOCIATES FIRST

In 2012, SCI formed the SCI Relief Fund in partnership with the Community Foundation to support its associates in recovering from a variety of disasters, including wildfires, hurricanes, flooding, and freezes. To date, SCI has given over $2 million to associates in California, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, North and South Carolina, Texas, and Puerto Rico to help them get back on their feet during times of crisis. Typically, they award up to $3,000 per associate per disaster, providing a safety net as they work with their insurance companies to recover.

As its philanthropic partner, the Community Foundation helps SCI care for its greatest asset: its associates. For the SCI Relief Fund, the Community Foundation ensures the program aligns with regulations and industry best practices.

Additionally, the Community Foundation stands ready to conduct timely reviews of applications and operate with a sense of urgency to meet SCI associates’ basic needs. “The Community Foundation looks at each application very thoughtfully, taking into account any context related to a specific disaster,” Jay said. “They conduct their reviews equitably and impartially, ensuring parity across the board. The communication and collaboration we have with the Community Foundation during a disaster ensures efficiency, so we get funds to our associates quickly.” SCI has a meaningful impact on its associates through recovery efforts, and the Community Foundation helps make it possible.

SAM J. LUCAS, JR. SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

In 1998, SCI established the Sam J. Lucas, Jr. Scholarship in honor of and in memory of Sam J. Lucas, Jr., a former SCI executive who lost his life suddenly. The scholarship is designated for SCI associates, or the spouse or child of a current employee. Since its inception, SCI has awarded over $479,000 in scholarships and provided $40,000 to 10 students in 2025 alone.

Building on this legacy of support, SCI sought to streamline the scholarship experience for applicants and administrators alike. In 2021, SCI partnered with the Community Foundation to manage its scholarship program, removing administrative burdens from associates and ensuring a seamless experience for applicants. From developing the online application to reviewing, scoring, and awarding scholarships, the Community Foundation provides SCI with full-service management of its scholarship program along with personalized support for potential scholarship recipients.

“This [scholarship]

opportunity stands as a

pivotal moment as I

plan to give back to my community after college. Your support brings me closer to achieving my educational and career goals.”

— James Glazebrooks, Scholarship Recipient

This scholarship exemplifies SCI’s deep commitment to its associates and their growth. Whether exploring new career paths or advancing in their current roles, this financial support empowers associates or their dependents to pursue their educational goals. Many recipients choose careers in mortuary science, a field that resonates deeply with SCI’s mission—making this scholarship program a meaningful extension of who the company is and what it stands for.

CARING FOR EACH OTHER

At its core, SCI has cultivated a culture of service for both the families it serves and the associates who help fulfill its vision of celebrating life with dedication, excellence, and innovation. With the Community Foundation as a trusted partner, SCI is able to deepen its impact, strengthen its programs, and continue honoring the values that define its mission.

Ready to support your employees?

Stephanie Blair Senior Director of Corporate Relations

You focus on estate, tax, and financial growth. We supply the charitable strategy, local impact knowledge, and administration support—so your clients’ giving is as sophisticated as their portfolio. Helping Your

Introducing the Professional Advisor Council Partnership in Action

The Professional Advisor Council (PAC), launched in 2025, is a strategic partnership that connects trusted finance, tax, estate, and family office advisors to help them seamlessly integrate charitable planning into their everyday practices. This esteemed group of professionals, with over 400 years of combined experience, provides valuable insights, serves as a sounding board, and helps ensure that the Community Foundation’s services align with their clients’ needs.

Members of the PAC also gain access to thought leadership, exclusive networking opportunities, and timely education on charitable giving strategies. Additionally, they ensure that the Community Foundation remains a resource that complements, rather than replaces, the role of a client’s existing advisors.

The PAC highlights the transformative power of collaboration. When advisors and the Community Foundation work together, they unlock greater philanthropic potential and amplify lasting, positive change for the causes that matter most.

INAUGURAL PROFESSIONAL ADVISOR COUNCIL

Wesley Bowers Fizer Beck

Jason Danziger Corient

Anthony Gamez BDO USA

Amanda Gyeszly Gyeszly + Prangner

Kelly Hackett Tectonic Advisors

Brandon Henry Mosaic

Jolie Howard Ytterberg Deery Knull LLP

Richard LaFont Endeavor Advisors

Brian Merrill Tanglewood Total Wealth Management

Andy Moore CLA

James Pavlik Icon Wealth Partners

Emily Smikal Withum

Ryan Staff RSM US LLP

Matthew Summers Brown Brothers Harriman

Carol Warley RSM US LLP

Thomas Wright

Thomas M. Wright Advisory LLC

Scott Zindler

Morgan Stanley

ADVISOR OUTREACH COMMITTEE

A special thank you to our Advisor Outreach Committee for their continued thought partnership and commitment to incorporating philanthropy into their practices. These highly regarded professionals help the Community Foundation develop tailored philanthropic solutions for their clients.

Karen Costa, Chair RSM US LLP

Lauren Doughty Troutman Pepper Locke LLP

Nick Erwin

U.S. Capital Wealth, LLC

Brandon Holcomb Goldman Sachs & Co., LLC

Douglas C. Kelly Hilcorp Ventures, Inc.

Jennifer Klein Strauss Ytterberg Deery Knull LLP

Tama Brooks Klosek

Klosek & Associates PLLC

Charlie Schwartzel

J.P. Morgan Private Bank

Planning with Certainty During a Time of Uncertainty 2025 Professional Advisor Breakfast

In October of 2025, Greater Houston Community Foundation hosted a breakfast for professional advisors who play a vital role in guiding their clients through some of life’s most important financial and charitable decisions.

Advisors—whether financial planners, attorneys, wealth managers, or CPAs—have an opportunity to integrate philanthropy into major transactions. Understanding a clients’ reasons for selling a business is critical, whether it’s wealth generation, health considerations, life stage, or preparing the next generation. This understanding enables advisors to align financial strategies with their clients’ personal values. Additionally, early collaboration with the Community Foundation helps advisors create clarity, confidence, and meaningful change as a joint team.

FROM ENTERPRISE TO IMPACT

Ken Bohan, a Community Foundation fundholder, and his trusted advisor, Ann Deaton of Angeles Wealth Management, joined the Community Foundation for a fireside chat. Ken integrated philanthropy into the sale of his company, The Liberty

Group. As the Founder, CEO, and Chairman, this decision was a financial and emotional commitment, and Ann began guiding Ken through the process years before the sale.

Ken’s decision to sell his business was driven by a desire to pursue new opportunities—he had dedicated over 40 years to his company. The sale of a business can create professional and personal uncertainty. Ann expanded, “When you create a business from scratch, there is a scale of emotions when you think about stepping away.” Ken added, “Be patient with us! It is a big deal.”

Charitable planning took shape during Ken’s business sale, where IRS rules required him to define his philanthropic portion in advance. Ken has been philanthropic throughout his life, but this transaction was a new chapter full of purpose. Ken described, “My mission is how I can make a difference going forward, and really be involved…If you are going to give away wealth, you want to make sure it will be used well.”

Ann introduced Ken to the Community Foundation, noting, “It began with exploring his options, but the chance to connect with like-minded donors and access educational programs won him over.”

Ann served on the Community Foundation’s Investment Committee for 14 years and continues to be impressed by its strong stewardship of assets and meaningful impact.

After selling his business, Ken established a donor advised fund with the Community Foundation, which allowed Angeles, Ann’s firm, to continue managing his assets, since advisors can do so for fund balances of $500,000 or more—a continuity Ken found reassuring. He added that the Community Foundation’s philanthropic advisors were invaluable in helping him focus his giving, saying, “It wasn’t easy, but the Community Foundation was instrumental.”

Ann was aware of Ken’s beliefs, why he was selling the business, and the causes he champions. “Understand your clients’ motivations behind everything and never be judgmental about their responses, just listen,” Ann concluded.

PHILANTHROPIC POLICY IN MOTION

The program continued with Jeff Hamond, Vice President at Van Scoyoc Associates, who has vast experience supporting community foundations in communicating their impact. Jeff shared legislative updates to help advisors navigate charitable giving, highlighting some of the philanthropic implications of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).

WINNING BUSINESS WITH PHILANTHROPY

Ricky LaFont, Partner and Director of Family Office Services at Endeavors Advisors and member of the Professional Advisor Council (PAC), shared how a recent collaboration with the Community Foundation helped him win prospective business. The client was considering selling their business, and the Community Foundation helped Ricky develop a few philanthropic strategies, highlighting the benefits of a charitable component in this transaction. Ultimately, Ricky encouraged all professional advisors to consider the Community Foundation when having philanthropic discussions—it serves as an extension of their firms and is a trusted charitable partner.

Let us be an extension of your team!

Andrea Mayes Senior Director of Charitable Solutions

Inaugural Houston Economic Mobility Summit Building Bridges for Deeper Impact

Recognizing the power of collaboration, five leading Houston nonprofits came together to spark a community-wide conversation on economic opportunity: Greater Houston Community Foundation, Good Reason Houston, Greater Houston Partnership, Kinder Institute for Urban Research, and United Way of Greater Houston. More than 150 cross-sector leaders participated in the inaugural Houston Economic Mobility Summit—from business, philanthropy, government, academia, and the nonprofit sector—to build shared knowledge of economic mobility, strengthen relationships, and explore the collective action needed to enhance upward mobility opportunities in Houston.

THE CASE FOR COMING TOGETHER

For the Community Foundation, this Summit aligned perfectly with its purpose: to inspire and create meaningful, positive change with our donors and for our community. And, through data and trends from Understanding Houston, it has become abundantly clear that economic mobility is a paramount concern for Houston. For co-convenors, the Summit was developed on the shared belief that, regardless of where a person starts, they can move up the economic ladder in Houston. But the central question was: Can Houston lead the nation in advancing economic mobility?

According to new data from the United States Census Bureau, Houston is now the most impoverished major city in the nation, with one in five residents living at or below the Federal Poverty Level. However, Houston also possesses remarkable strengths, such as a rapidly growing, diverse population, a strong economy, and leaders deeply committed to expanding opportunities. To build on these strengths, the Summit was designed to create space for shared learning, connection, and collaboration.

“We believe that Houston can and should—and dare I say, must—lead the nation in upward mobility as one of the most diverse and fastest-growing regions in America,” Steve Maislin, President and CEO of Greater Houston Community Foundation, said at the Summit. “We’re more than just a city— we’re a bellwether.”

UNDERSTANDING ECONOMIC MOBILITY WITH DR. RAJ CHETTY

Dr. Raj Chetty, Director of Opportunity Insights and a national expert on economic mobility, explained that upward mobility is about whether people can move up the income ladder within their lifetimes and across generations—a cornerstone of the American Dream. Economic mobility, measured by whether adult children earn more than their parents (adjusted for inflation), has declined over decades: 92% of children born in 1940 outearned their parents, compared to just 50% of those born in 1980.

Dr. Chetty revealed that mobility rates vary dramatically by place. In Houston, a child’s zip code significantly impacts their upward mobility—for better or for worse. “Where you grow up really influences life outcomes. When you move just a few miles down the road, that changes outcomes—what is going on that makes some places better than others?” he asked.

Dr. Chetty highlighted policy approaches to boost mobility, emphasizing that social capital, and economic connectedness—the degree to which people from low-income backgrounds are connected to those with higher incomes—is a key predictor of upward mobility. In communities with strong crossclass relationships, children from low-income families are significantly more likely to rise economically. By improving childhood environments, treating social communities as units of change, and investing in place and social capital, Houston can unlock the full potential of its people.

DRIVING ACTION WITH SARAH ROSEN WARTELL

Sarah Rosen Wartell, President of the Urban Institute and another national expert on economic mobility, discussed how economic mobility is shaped by more than income. Factors such as education, health, housing, the environment, and social connections all matter. She shared the Urban Institute’s Upward Mobility Framework. This research-based guide defines mobility comprehensively and outlines five pillars of community support: rewarding work, high-quality education, opportunity-rich and inclusive neighborhoods, a healthy environment and access to quality health care, and responsive government. The Framework includes measurable predictors that help identify specific changes to drive long-term prosperity.

Sarah reinforced how achieving systems change requires partners to think, act, and collaborate differently. “Houston is one of the most diverse and fastest-growing regions in America,” said Sarah. “But realizing the promise [of advancing economic mobility] requires ambitious, cross-sector solutions with a long-term commitment to impact,” Sarah emphasized. Houston is poised for transformative progress, but achieving it will require the collective power of the extraordinary institutions that were in the room.

BUSINESS & PHILANTHROPY WITH RICH KINDER

Rich Kinder, Executive Chairman of Kinder Morgan and Chairman of the Kinder Foundation, spoke about how Houston creates thousands of jobs each year, but getting low-income people connected to these jobs and opportunities is a different story. To combat this, Rich shared that businesses, educational institutions, policymakers, and philanthropy all need to work together to move the needle for Houston. Philanthropy can’t solve all the problems, but it can help facilitate successful public-private partnerships.

Rich shared a quote by Winston Churchill, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” He alluded to the fact that we all make mistakes, but with strong relationships, clear objectives, and ample communication, Houston can drive change together.

HOUSTON IN FOCUS WITH DR. FLÁVIO CUNHA

Dr. Flávio Cunha, Director of the Center for Economic Mobility at Rice University’s Kinder Institute for Urban Research, discussed Houston’s economic paradox: How can Houston’s economy grow so fast while, at the same time, mobility for people and families remains stagnant? Dr. Cunha highlighted a failure in coordination between employers, individuals, and the education sector. He cites the historic disinvestment in on-the-job learning since the 1970s, which has weakened mobility, and emphasized that today, firms invest only in people who already have skills. Dr. Cunha elaborated, “Employers expect education systems to produce work-ready graduates. Firms are ‘buying’ skills instead of ‘building’ skills internally.”

Dr. Cunha suggested creating a supply-and-demand policy that increases the skills of our local talent while simultaneously creating jobs. A coordinated approach, with strong partnerships between employers and education, ensures that students receive training that aligns with what employers value in the labor market.

Defining a clear north star that is simple enough for everyone to understand, transparent enough for people to trust, and detailed enough to reveal underlying inequalities will be critical. A coordinated approach across sectors is the only way our region will achieve mobility advancements.

TOGETHER IN MOTION WITH ANN STERN

Ann Stern, Former President and CEO of Houston Endowment, closed the Summit with an inspiring reflection on moments when Houston has united across sectors to tackle challenges: responding to Hurricane Harvey’s destruction, becoming a national model for reducing homelessness, and transforming Houston’s green spaces into assets for all residents. She shared, “Houston is great at going from worst to first. If anyone leaves here today wondering whether we can really shift the trajectory of economic mobility in Houston, let me say plainly—yes, we can. Because when Houston aligns across ideologies, across sectors, and across the aisle, we do extraordinary things.”

Participants discussing our region’s readiness for collective action.

FROM LEARNING TO DOING

Each day of the Summit, participants engaged in collaborative discussions to explore ways Houston and its various organizations can lead the nation in economic mobility. The convening organizations of the Summit developed a comprehensive summary report that synthesized insights from all sessions and activities, which was released in January.

The Summit was a call to harness Houston’s trademark resilience, optimism, and collaboration to ensure that every Houstonian can thrive. The Summit is not just a one-time conversation—it marks the beginning of a long-term commitment. Convenors and participants will continue to refine priorities, align around shared goals, and pursue collective actions that deliver measurable, lasting progress for all Houstonians.

Community Impact

From climate disasters to limited access to economic opportunities, Houston’s residents are striving—and many are struggling—to build a future for themselves and their families. In partnership with our donors, Greater Houston Community Foundation drives innovative, collaborative philanthropy to support solutions to Houston’s most pressing challenges. Our Community Impact work drives solutions forward through three pillars focused on progress for all, collaboration, and data.

GREATER HOUSTON DISASTER ALLIANCE

The Disaster Alliance is a joint initiative between the Community Foundation and United Way of Greater Houston, ensuring our region has the networks and systems to accelerate recovery effectively during disasters. We’re pleased to share that in 2025, JPMorgan Chase and Texas Mutual Insurance Company became the newest sponsors of the Disaster Alliance! Along with Phase 1 support from our Founding Sponsors, Enbridge and Phillips 66, these additional gifts will allow the Disaster Alliance to continue and expand the work to accelerate disaster recovery, strengthen preparedness, and build resilience in the Houston region.

In 2025, though our region did not experience a disaster, the Disaster Alliance maintained a year-round focus to reduce the harm caused by disasters to our most vulnerable neighbors.

2025 HIGHLIGHTS

Building Preparedness Infrastructure

Solidified a system coordination partnership with Connective, ensuring it has the data and technology in place to accelerate recovery during disasters and support year-round nonprofit engagement and resilience initiatives.

Fueling Recovery Collaboration

Hosted four nonprofit convenings, reaching over 200 staff from 100 nonprofit organizations on key preparedness and program design priorities. Additionally, we produced two impact reports, celebrating the 35 unique nonprofits that helped 4,100 households recover from two disasters in 2024.

Catalyzing Disaster Resiliency

Identified 29 highly vulnerable zip codes for prioritizing disaster resilience efforts. Furthermore, the Community Foundation pursued local and national partnerships with entities such as the City of Houston’s “Houston Ready Roundtable” and Gulf Research Program, to attract collaboration and resources needed to implement resilience programming in our region.

UNDERSTANDING HOUSTON

Understanding Houston is a collaborative initiative led by the Greater Houston Community Foundation to empower us all with the information we need to act—individually and collectively—to build a Houston region that provides everyone the opportunity to reach their full potential. With more than 4,000 people briefed and 300,000 website users since its launch, Understanding Houston has informed funding decisions, philanthropic giving, nonprofit strategy, and more.

HIGH-IMPACT GRANTMAKING

The High-Impact Grantmaking initiative provides donors expanded opportunities to invest, together, in innovative solutions focused on Houston’s most pressing challenges. Through our Inaugural High-Impact Grantmaking process, in 2025, we invested $500,000 in our Inaugural Grant Partners: Connective, Grameen America, and Prisoner Entrepreneurship Program. These three impactful organizations, each with a clear, credible, and compelling vision, are making a significant impact in Houston, and the Community Foundation’s support has propelled them forward.

2025 GRANT FINALISTS

Additionally, in 2025, following the recommendations of the Community Grants Advisory Committee and approval from the Community Foundation’s Governing Board, the Community Foundation selected its finalists for its second $500,000 High-Impact Grantmaking investment. Each finalist has ambitious plans to advance economic mobility, with a focus on addressing intergenerational poverty and advance upward mobility in Houston.

BridgeYear connects young people from low-income communities to higher-earning pathways that do not require a four-year college degree. In collaboration with various employers, BridgeYear is expanding its Career Cohort program to help recent graduates complete short-term certifications and gain employment with wraparound and peer support. Good Reason Houston, a collective action, cradle-to-career backbone organization, will track program outcomes to build data that strengthens the region’s workforce ecosystem and to draw additional philanthropic investment to Houston.

NPower addresses the tech workforce gap through short-term flexible training at no cost, wraparound support, and professional development to gain industry-recognized certifications. Program graduates are connected to high-demand tech jobs and apprenticeships that radically shift their income trajectory and create pathways to economic prosperity while offering lifelong alumni engagement, networking, and upskilling.

Ready to collaborate?

Diana Zarzuelo Vice President of Community Impact

My Connect Community (MCC) addresses intergenerational poverty through a place-based approach in Gulfton/Sharpstown by elevating local voices and investing in housing, economic opportunity, education, and wellness. MCC expands economic mobility and delivers lifelong impact in a historically underinvested community. Through its programs and services, participants gain workforce and language skills, build financial stability, and increase income, strengthening families and advancing community-led, long-term prosperity across generations through trusted partnerships and culturally responsive, placerooted community investments initiatives.

The San Jacinto College Foundation’s Promise Scholarships open the door to college for students in East Harris County, many of whom are low-income and first-generation. By covering up to three years of tuition, books, and essential supplies—and providing targeted advising and wraparound support—Promise removes barriers that often derail students. As a result, Promise Scholars consistently outperform their peers in persistence, credit momentum, and completion, delivering a strong return on investment and a clear pathway to economic mobility.

Turn up your volume. Leave a louder impact.

Experience the power of amplified giving. Greater Houston Community Foundation is your “easy button” for high-impact philanthropy.

A Look into South Asian Giving Grounded in Shared Values

In August of 2025, Greater Houston Community Foundation hosted an inspiring evening featuring our fundholders with ties to South Asia. The intimate gathering, thoughtfully curated by the Community Foundation and graciously hosted by fundholders Dr. Manu Gupta, Avani Narang, and Celestine Vettical, offered a meaningful space to explore the Community Foundation’s wide-ranging philanthropic services and hear firsthand insights from fellow fundholders, including Rahul Mehta.

Held at the iconic Kiran’s Restaurant, more than 40 guests had a chance to enjoy a memorable culinary experience prepared by Chef Kiran Verma. The evening blended heartfelt storytelling and a shared commitment to igniting meaningful impact in Houston and abroad.

HOUSTON’S COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Steve Maislin, our President and CEO, opened the program by weaving together its 30-year history, insights, and hopes for the future. Steve highlighted the power of donor advised funds (DAFs) as financial tools and tax-efficient charitable vehicles for achieving long-term impact. From accepting noncash assets to legacy building and family involvement, the guests learned how the Community Foundation supports donors who want their dollars to resonate.

A FAMILY BUSINESS PLAN WITH HEART

For Celestine Vettical, Former Community Foundation Board Member and Executive Chairman of Thore Insurance Group and Celestial Ventures, philanthropy is woven into daily life. With his late wife, Mini, Celestine created a “family business plan” that centered on service and community awareness. In 2014, the Vetticals’ partnership with the Community Foundation began. Their professional advisors recommended the Community Foundation for their DAF, as they weren’t just looking for a fund—they were seeking a philanthropic partner. Celestine noted how they were a founding family of the Center for Family Philanthropy (CFP) because they knew the CFP would engage their children in philanthropy.

Whether through the Community Foundation’s Family Giving Circle or serving on the CFP’s advisory committee, all five Vettical children—Pooja, Eesha, Diya, Dylan, and Aiden—exemplify a spirit of generosity. After Mini’s passing, the family partnered with the Community Foundation to honor her legacy by founding the Dr. Mini Vettical Angel Fund, which focuses on healthcare for the medically underserved and access to education for low-income families. Mini Vettical lived a life full of generosity, and her philanthropic spirit continues to resonate through her children.

NARROWING FOCUS, AMPLIFYING DEPTH

Rahul Mehta, Community Foundation Fundholder and Founder of The Bhupat & Jyoti Mehta Family Foundation, who is dedicated to developing intellectual talent in India, illustrated how philanthropic journeys often begin broadly, then sharpen. He spoke candidly about the emotional side of giving: deciding what one “needs” in a lifetime while seeking what brings deepest satisfaction.

The lesson: impact grows when you pair resources with purpose, and when you center your giving not just on causes, but on your own values. Rahul’s work spans continents, but it is rooted in specificity—supporting higher education across India and the U.S.

LEARNING, GROWING, CONNECTING

Dr. Manu Gupta, CEO of Indus Communities, offered a third perspective, as collaboration with the Community Foundation began through his sister Avani’s leadership of Indus Cares Foundation. Taking part in the Community Foundation’s Next Gen Donor Institute (Institute) in 2021, Manu discovered frameworks and networks that transformed his thinking: how to vet nonprofits, the importance of site visits, reading financials, and balancing giving across four “T’s”—talent, time, treasure, and ties.

Manu shared that his participation in the Institute was skill-building and grounded in connection. It provided a forum to explore the responsibilities of wealth, to align actions with values, and to build relationships with peers who share a similar journey. When the opportunity came for Manu to serve on Houston’s Advisory Board for Entryway, it was these tools and mentors that helped him step forward with confidence.

MEANINGFUL PHILANTHROPY, TOGETHER

One theme that echoed throughout the evening was that philanthropy doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s a partnership—among families, communities, and generations. Whether someone is considering a DAF, exploring generational giving, or seeking to make a global impact, the Community Foundation implements strategic philanthropic practices that align with your charitable and financial goals.

Align your actions with your values through philanthropy.

Jennifer Touchet Vice President of Personal & Family Philanthropy

Highlights from our 2025 Donor Programs Where Donors Learn & Communities Thrive

Throughout 2025, Greater Houston Community Foundation proudly partnered with community leaders, fundholders, and other partners to host a variety of programs that deepened community engagement, fostered generosity, and amplified impact. Thank you to all who joined us in learning, connecting, and shaping the future of giving—and to our event speakers, facilitators, and panelists listed below

PHILANTHROPY IN COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH

Co-hosted by Houston Philanthropy Circle, we held a discussion on the root causes of the mental health crisis, the challenges faced by mental health professionals, and how philanthropy can help.

Will Cravens Scanlan Foundation

Greg Hambrick The Baxter Trust

Sanjay J. Mathew, M.D. Baylor College of Medicine

Matthew S. Stanford, Ph.D.

Hope and Healing Center & Institute

Kevin Stuart, Ph.D. University of St. Thomas

EXPLORING CLIMATE PHILANTHROPY

An insightful overview of climate philanthropy followed by a peer-led discussion, where attendees shared personal experiences and strategies for impactful climate-focused giving.

Jenny Everett

Everett Interests, Purpose Trust Ownership Network, Central Texas Climate Philanthropy Collaborative, & Community Foundation Fundholder

Randall Kempner Climate Philanthropy Catalyst Coalition

Elizabeth Love

Jacob Terese Hershey Foundation

Cullen Geiselman Muse, Ph.D.*

Cullen Trust for Health Care & Community Foundation Fundholder

SCHOLARSHIPS & ECONOMIC MOBILITY

We explored best practices for scholarship programs and how they drive economic mobility by expanding access to education and breaking cycles of poverty.

Raj Salhotra Momentum Education

Jay Sears* NewQuest & Community Foundation Fundholder

GIVING

STARTER KIT WORKSHOP WITH BLACK IMPACT HOUSTON

In collaboration with Black Impact Houston, we hosted an Individual Giving Day Workshop for Black-led organizations with bold missions and deep community roots.

Eldon Lewis

Lewis Orellana, Inc

Jovanny Orellana Lewis Orellana, Inc.

GREATER HOUSTON CIRCLEUP

In partnership with Philanthropy Together, Philanos, and The Love Endowment, we held an event on giving circles where individuals join forces to make collective gifts while building meaningful connections with one another.

Tyeshia “Ty” Wilson Philanthropy Together

Tony Bowen

Fidelity Charitable Catalyst Fund

Terry Love Community Investment Network

Clare O’Brien

Philanos

Demetria George Philanos

NEXT GEN GIVING CIRCLE LEARNING ON MATERNAL HEALTH

This panel highlighted critical issues in maternal health, including several initiatives aimed at identifying and addressing gaps in pre- and postnatal care for mothers and infants.

Robyn Kebede, MPH, CHES, CHW Houston Health Foundation, The Woman’s Hospital of Texas, & The Mama Mission

Dr. Lindsey Vasquez, MD, CPE, CPHQ, FACO Molina Healthcare of Texas

Alicia Lee, MHA

March of Dimes

INTENTIONAL & MULTIGENERATIONAL GIVING

A Community Foundation workshop that focused on creating an intentional giving plan and explored creative ways to engage children in giving back with passion.

AI FOR SOCIAL GOOD: HOW HOUSTON DOESN’T GET LEFT BEHIND

We brought together leaders across philanthropy, nonprofits, business, and academia to discuss responsible AI adoption, effective governance, and the infrastructure needed to center community voice.

Mario Castillo

City of Houston

Vilas Dhar

Patrick J. McGovern Foundation

* Indicates they are a Community Foundation Governing Board Member.

Ready to be part of the conversations that will amplify your impact?

Annie Hurwitz Director of Donor Engagement & Learning

2025 Governing Board

CHAIR

Bob Harvey Retired, President & CEO Greater Houston Partnership

Gregory L. Ebel President & CEO Enbridge Inc.

Kate Fowler Executive Director

Jerry C. Dearing Family Foundation

Kelly Hackett* Managing Director–Family Office Services Tectonic Advisors

Philip J. Hawk Retired Executive

Douglas C. Kelly Retired, President Hilcorp Ventures, Inc.

Cody McGregor* Next Gen Representative Managing Director FTI Consulting

Cullen Geiselman Muse, Ph.D. Chair of the Board Cullen Trust for Health Care

Avani Narang

Next Gen Representative Managing Director of Marketing & Digital Communications Indus Communities

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR

Chris Weekley President David Weekley Homes

Jay Sears* Co-Founder & Managing Partner NewQuest

Brandon Simmons Director of Institutional Policy & Oversight State of Texas

Jay Steinfeld* Founder & CEO Blinds.com

Y. Ping Sun Of Counsel Yetter Coleman LLP

Caren Sweetland Attorney

Tym Tombar Managing Director Arcadius Capital Partners

Anthanette (Toni) Wilson Attorney Community Leader

Enoch Woodhouse Chief Executive Officer Smith Family Circle

Thomas M. Wright Thomas M. Wright Advisory, LLC

*Indicates they were a new Governing Board Member in 2025

Our Team

For 30 years, the Community Foundation has fostered strong relationships by honoring donor intent and driving meaningful change alongside our clients. We support high-impact philanthropy by aligning donors with the causes they value and expertly manage the assets entrusted to us.

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM

Steve Maislin President & CEO

Pooja Amin General Counsel

Rebecca Hove Managing Director of Strategic Philanthropy

Mike Pawson Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer

STAFF

Lulu Alvarez Accountant

Azad Barazi Foundation Services Associate

Prashant Bashyal Systems Architect

Stephanie Blair Senior Director of Corporate Relations

Chelsea Cheung Senior Manager of Data Analytics

Tina Clayton Senior Scholarships Associate

Marie Cushman Senior Scholarships Associate

Kassidy Daussin Marketing Creative Associate

Natasha DeCell Executive Assistant

Hunter Edmondson Controller

Ashley Estes Client Advisor, Strategic Philanthropy

Kevin Pickett Chief Advancement Officer

Jennifer Touchet Vice President of Personal & Family Philanthropy

Diana Zarzuelo Vice President of Community Impact

Kellie Ewasko Administrative Assistant

Krystle Folse Director of Donor Services

Kolby Gilbert Individual & Corporate Relations Manager

Andrei Gololobov Accountant

Courtney Grymonprez Scholarships Manager

Nelson Hernandez Controller

Lydia Hickey Senior Foundation Services Manager

Kimberly Hipo Senior Donor Services Associate

Jennifer Hogle Accounting Manager

Annie Hurwitz Director of Donor Engagement & Learning

Lauren Jones Foundation Services Associate

Shannon Davidson LaCour Senior Donor Services Associate

Stephanie Lebron Senior Donor Services Associate

Stephanie Lopez Accountant

Sara Martinez Senior Director of Community Impact

Andrea Mayes Senior Director of Charitable Solutions

Michelle Morrison Donor Services Manager

Tyler Murphy Senior Advisor, Charitable Solutions

Chelsea Murray Events & Engagement Specialist

Kaitlin Necas Communications Specialist

Cindy Newman Accountant

Sherrill Smith Receptionist/Office Assistant

Lauren Spackman Client Manager, Strategic Philanthropy

Morgan Steen Director of Governance and Administration

Joseph Stewart Development Coordinator

Nadia Valliani Director of Community Impact

Gaby Aguirre Villacorta Foundation Services Associate

Crystal Williams Donor Services Assistant

Rachel Young Director of Marketing & Communications

Community Foundation Council

Earlier this year, Members of our Community Foundation Council gathered to kick off our 30th Anniversary celebrations. This dedicated group, with years of involvement with the Community Foundation, came together to honor our past, reflect on our present, and celebrate the exciting future ahead. A special thank you to Krista and Mike Dumas for hosting this special evening.

Dorothy Ables Spectra Energy Corp.

John Scott Arnoldy Triten Corporation

James Baird Quantum Energy Partners

Bruce Bilger Lazard Freres & Co. LLC

Bruce Bilger, Jr. Longmont Capital

Jack Blanton, Jr. The Scurlock Foundation

Leslie Blanton Community Leader

J. Murry Bowden The Hanover Co.

J. Downey Bridgwater Comerica Bank

Sandy Bryan Just Her Sports

Emily Burguières Dalicandro Community Leader

Richard Campo Camden

Chip Carlisle Retired, Wells Fargo

Martha Carnes Retired, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Ann Cazalot Community Leader

Anthony Chase ChaseSource, LP

Don Childress, II Childress Capital Advisors

Joseph A. Cleary, Jr Harvey Cleary Builders

Ernie Cockrell Pinto Realty Partners

Gus Comiskey, Jr. Comiskey Kaufman Consulting

Michael Cordúa Cordua Restaurants

Emily Crosswell Community Leader

E. Ted Davis Davis/Chambers & Company, Ltd.

Peter DeLongchamps Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

Stephanie Donaho Retired, Locke Lord LLP

Krista Dumas Community Leader

Michael Dumas Maritime Holdings, LLC

Robert Duncan Transwestern

John Eads Sierra Resources, LLC

Mary Eads Community Leader

Gary Edwards Conoco, Inc.

Peggy Edwards Community Leader

Kristi Elsom Fizer Beck Webster Bentley & Scroggins

C. Richard Everett Everett Interests

Rob Galtney Galtney Capital, LLC

Dan Gilbane Gilbane Building Company

Marty Goossen JP Morgan Private Bank

Jill Gracely Baylor College of Medicine

Maureen Graf Community Leader

Bob Graham Community Leader

Saundria Chase Gray Shell Oil Company

Melanie Gray Retired, Winston & Strawn LLP

Maureen Hackett Community Leader

Joseph Hafner, Jr Retired, Riviana Foods, Inc.

Bernard Harris, Jr. Vesalius Ventures

Philip Hawk Retired, Evergreen North America

Jeffery Hildebrand Hilcorp Energy Company

Lee Hogan Anglican Health Network

Rick Jaramillo Bank of America

Stephen Kaufman Comiskey Kaufman Consulting

Carla Knobloch Owners Advisory LLC

Yolanda Knull Ytterberg Deery Knull LLP

Terri Lacy Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

Leo Linbeck, III Aquinas Companies, LLC

Janiece Longoria The University of Texas System Board of Regents

Allen Lyons Cadence Bank

Steve Maislin Greater Houston Community Foundation

Stan Marek, Jr. The Marek Family of Companies

Barry Margolis Margolis, Phipps & Wright PC

Leslie Margolis Community Volunteer

Rodney Margolis Margolis Interests

George Martinez Allegiance Bank Texas

Steven Miller ALM Discovery Ventures, Inc.

William Montgomery Quantum Energy Partners

Paul Murphy, Jr. Cadence Bancorp LLC

D. Keith Oden Camden

Sandra Oden Community Leader

W. Jeffrey Paine, Jr. Goldman Sachs & Co.

Carrin Patman

Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County

Sue Payne ExxonMobil Corporation

Ricardo Perusquia Global Financial Services, LLC

Mary Tere Perusquia Community Leader

Hector Pineda Shell Oil Company

Gloria Portela Seyfarth Shaw, LLP

David Pruner Heidrick & Struggles

Alexandra Pruner Perella Weinberg Partners

Beth Robertson Cockspur, Inc.

Ali Saberioon Sabco Oil & Gas Company

Park Shaper SEIS Holdings

Peter Shaper Genesis Park

Gavin Smith GHS Investments

Joel Staff Scipio Interest, LLC

Mary Martha Staff Community Leader

Deborah Stavis Stavis & Cohen Financial

Leticia Trauber Community Leader

Lane Ward Amegy Bank of Texas

Carol Warley RSM US LLP

Mark Wawro Susman Godfrey LLP

Donald Woo Mission Constructors, Inc.

Questions about the Community Foundation Council?

Kevin Pickett Chief Advancement Officer