Amplified Giving for the Future: 30 Years of Learning and Leading Together
As we mark three decades of amplified giving, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment. The last 30 years have been filled with lessons—some hard, during times when our community needed us the most, and others joyfully discovered. Throughout it all, we have remained steadfast in honoring the philanthropic visions and values of our fundholders and partners, continually evolving to meet the changing needs of both our donors and the community.
“Amplified giving” isn’t just a phrase; it’s how we help donors make their giving easier, smarter, and more impactful—all of which have shaped who we are today. However, this milestone isn’t just a celebration of what’s behind us; it’s a launchpad for what’s to come.
We invite you to explore our Amplified Giving blog series, highlighting insights and experiences from the past that will guide our evolution, and showcasing how we embrace new philanthropic tools for collaboration and impact. Because the future of amplified giving isn’t something we step into alone. It’s something we build together.
30 Years of Amplified Giving: Insights from the CEO
Learn from our President and CEO, Steve Maislin, as he reflects on his early days working at the Community Foundation and shares insights on what’s ahead.
“When I started at the Community Foundation (2001), there was confusion about its purpose. This ambiguity was a huge hurdle for us. Still, partners from early Board members like David Weekley, Rusty Walter, Ernie H. Cockrell, Mary Nell Lovett, Beth Robertson, and so many more stepped up to serve as ambassadors for the Community Foundation, connecting us with Houston’s most philanthropic people. These introductions, coupled with our early disaster work, really reinforced the Community Foundation’s ability to maximize philanthropic impact in partnership with our donors.”
Steve Maislin, President & CEO
Bob Harvey’s Amplified Giving: Evolving Philanthropy to Shape Houston’s Future
Bob Harvey’s philanthropic journey is a testament to the power of strategic giving. Discover how his approach has evolved, how he invests in Houston’s potential, and his vision for the Community Foundation to amplify impact for the next 30 years and beyond.
30 Ways We Amplify Giving
For 30 years, the Community Foundation has been the “easy button” for philanthropists in Houston and beyond. When you partner with the Community Foundation, you gain access to expert philanthropic advisors who can help you build the scaffolding for a lasting charitable legacy while maximizing tax benefits. Discover how we amplify giving.
Southwest Airlines®: Bringing People Together in the Air and on the Ground
Uncover how the airline with heart champions the community! Access to education has been a pillar of the airline’s giving for over 50 years, and that is why Southwest Airlines recently selected the Community Foundation to help administer its Southwest Airlines® Founders Scholarship and Southwest Airlines® Community Scholarship. Additionally, Southwest Airlines® chose the Community Foundation as a philanthropic partner for its corporate donor advised fund, which supports many of its corporate responsibility initiatives.
Amplified Collaborative Giving in Houston: Fueling High-Impact, Community-Driven Solutions
Collaborative giving matters in Houston, and at the Community Foundation, we bring donors, nonprofits, businesses, and other civic partners together to advance collaborative initiatives, align investments, and share knowledge. Understand how these partnerships enable us to accomplish more together than we could alone, expanding our capacity to drive meaningful, lasting change across Houston and beyond.
Amplifying Impact, One Nurse at a Time: The Houston Nursing Education Foundation
A shortage of nurses means a shortage of care for everyone. Uncover how The Health and Nursing Education Foundation (HNEF) is stepping up with a bold new strategy to meet this crisis head-on, focusing solely on providing scholarships for nursing students throughout Greater Houston. By shifting its focus entirely to scholarships, HNEF is investing in the next generation of nurses—and the future of healthcare.
The Future of Philanthropy: Amplified Giving Through Collective Generosity
The giving landscape is evolving, and donors have several opportunities to amplify their impact. Philanthropic dollars matter now more than ever, and by embracing tools like donor advised funds (DAFs), individuals can support causes with just a few clicks. Whether through digital engagement or strategic timing, learn how your contributions can have a greater impact and create lasting change.
How the Community Foundation Supports Professional Advisors: Partnering for Amplified Client Giving
Advisors play a critical role in helping clients navigate wealth management, estate planning, and tax strategies. However, integrating philanthropy early into the client conversation is a strategic way to strengthen relationships and expand the scope of services advisors provide. Understand how the Community Foundation is a trusted partner for incorporating philanthropy into a client’s financial and estate planning.
Building Bridges for Deeper Impact: Inaugural Houston Economic Mobility Summit
Greater Houston Community Foundation, Good Reason Houston, Greater Houston Partnership, Kinder Institute for Urban Research, and United Way of Greater Houston hosted the inaugural Houston Economic Mobility Summit, bringing together 150 cross-sector leaders. The Summit deepened understanding of economic mobility, fostered collaboration, and explored collective strategies for measurable progress in Houston.
Keynote speakers included:
- Dr. Raj Chetty, Director of Opportunity Insights and Harvard economist
- Sarah Rosen Wartell, President of the Urban Institute
Local perspectives were shared by:
- Dr. Flávio Cunha, Rice University Kinder Institute
- Rich Kinder, Kinder Foundation & Kinder Morgan
- Ann B. Stern Houston Endowment
Amplified Giving Through Service: Ten Years of Family Philanthropy Day
For the past decade, Family Philanthropy Day has brought multiple generations together to volunteer, learn, and give back. This year’s 10th anniversary event was our biggest yet—filled with energy, compassion, and proof that age is no barrier to making a difference. Discover the organizations, families, foundations, and companies that helped us create meaningful experiences and how small acts of kindness, multiplied over time, can create lasting change.
Ready to amplify your giving? Call the Community Foundation today at 713-333-2210 or reach out directly to get started.
More helpful articles by the Community Foundation:
- How To Set Up a Donor Advised Fund
- Monica Walker’s Blueprint to Lasting Impact
- What is the Great Wealth Transfer?
- Incorporating Charitable Giving into Your Investment Strategy
- Integrating Philanthropy into High-Income Tax Planning
- How to Donate Business Interests Strategically
- The Surprising Benefits of Philanthropy on Your Well-Being
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