BRAVE/R Together advances health equity through four key pathways: healthcare, education, business & economic development, and housing. “This partnership with NTCF is a critical step in addressing barriers to opportunity in 76104,” said Shawn Lassiter, PhD, executive director of BRAVE/R Together. “We’re committed to sustainable, community-led strategies that drive positive change.”

Launched in 2024, the Fund for Good enables NTCF to respond to our region’s evolving needs by directing philanthropic resources to transformative solutions in North Texas. The City of Fort Worth recently identified the Historic Southside neighborhood as a priority community experiencing significant private and public investment to ensure that residents are not displaced, and cultural history is preserved.

Powered by the generosity of NTCF donors, the 2025 Fund for Good grant will help BRAVE/R Together strengthen local businesses, prevent displacement, and preserve the area’s cultural legacy by centering residents in decision-making. The long-term goal is to cultivate an economically vibrant neighborhood that remains deeply connected to its history and community.

“Creating economic opportunity for local residents while preserving historic neighborhoods is essential for Fort Worth’s future,” said Rose Bradshaw, President & CEO of NTCF. “By aligning philanthropic and public investments today, we can ensure long-term impact and drive results for decades to come.”

This grant is part of NTCF’s broader commitment to community development. In 2024, NTCF funded a Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce survey to prioritize community voices in the Historic Northside District. The Foundation also launched the BEACON Fund to support historically disinvested neighborhoods and participates in the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation-funded Economic Mobility Action Network Cohort, which brings together community foundations nationwide to collaborate on strategies for increasing economic opportunity.

Prior Fund for Good Investments

NTCF’s Fund for Good has previously supported initiatives addressing critical community needs, including:

Affordable Housing: A grant to Presbyterian Night Shelter supported the Journey Home Housing initiative, which repurposed former Seminary student housing into 42 units of affordable housing for individuals and families in South Fort Worth. This initiative provides a stable housing solution with wrap around services that promote long-term well-being and economic stability.

Maternal and Infant Health: A grant to Best Place for Working Parents supported the expansion of the Parent Pass app, a critical tool that connects mothers with essential healthcare and social services for themselves and their babies. By streamlining referrals to vital resources, the app strengthens support networks for families and improves health outcomes.

All Fund for Good grants undergo rigorous evaluation by a volunteer committee of community experts.

The 2025 committee members are:

Michael Appleman

Dennis Chiessa

Fernando Costa

Jennifer Grammer

Janeen Lamkin

Jeffery Postell

Dani Tucker

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Lowy, senior vice president at Hillwood, has served on the Foundation’s Board of Directors for five years, most recently as Vice Chair of the Board. Lowy’s leadership comes as the Foundation embarks on a new strategic planning process, set to be unveiled next year.

“It is an honor to step into this role at a transformative time for the Community Foundation. I look forward to working alongside my fellow board members, our dedicated staff, and generous donors to build on the Foundation’s strong legacy and create lasting impact in our region,” said Lowy.

Joining the Board of Directors are:

Becky Nussbaum Gerro, Director of Development, River Legacy Foundation

Lindsay Daniel Livesay, JD, Private Wealth Trust Market Manager & SVP, Bank of Texas Private Wealth

Malathi Ravi, Attorney, Wick Phillips

David Saenz, Ed.D., Senior Education Advisor, Fort Worth Mayor’s Council on Workforce and Education

Stephen Shannon, CEO, Colo Development Partners

“We are thrilled to welcome such outstanding leaders to our Board of Directors. Their expertise and vision will guide the Foundation’s impact for years to come,” said Rose Bradshaw, president & CEO of North Texas Community Foundation. “With their leadership, we are well-positioned to drive meaningful change and strengthen our community for future generations.”

The Community Foundation’s volunteer Board of Directors provides governance over strategic planning, community leadership, and the trustworthy stewardship of more than $549 million in charitable assets. Thanks to the generosity of its fundholders, the Community Foundation has granted more than $500 million to nonprofits since its inception in 1981.

North Texas Community Foundation’s Board of Directors include:

Smith A. Brownlie, III, Founding Partner, Cotton Creek Capital

Orlando P. Carvalho, Executive Vice President, Lockheed Martin, retired

Crystal Flores, Head of Engagement, Ivy League Sisters

Becky Nussbaum Gerro, Director of Development, River Legacy Foundation

Jennifer Grammer, CPA – Tax Senior Manager, Whitley Penn

Stacy Landreth Grau, PhD, Associate Dean – John Roach Honors College, Texas ChristianUniversity

Ryan Heath, Founding Attorney, TrustPoint Legal, PLLC

Kelly Hein, CFO, D3G Capital Management, LLC

Janeen Lamkin, Community Volunteer

Anette Soto Landeros, Chief Strategy Officer, Trinity Metro

Lindsay Daniel Livesay, JD, Private Wealth Trust Market Manager & SVP, Bank of Texas Private Wealth

Meggie Lowy, Senior Vice President, Hillwood

Daniel H. McCarthy, Partner, Wick Phillips Gould & Martin

Winjie Miao, SEVP, Texas Health Resources

Savannah Petronis, Financial Advisor, Baird Private Wealth Management

Horatio Porter, Chief Financial Officer, North Texas Tollway Authority

Malathi Ravi, Attorney, Wick Phillips

David Saenz, Ed.D., Senior Education Advisor, Fort Worth Mayor’s Council on Workforce and Education

Ken Schaefer, President, Schaefer Advertising Co.

Stephen Shannon, CEO, Colo Development Partners

Jeremy Smith, President, Rainwater Charitable Foundation

Joseph D. Taylor, Chairman, Board of Managers, JTaylor

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“We are humbled by Beverly’s generosity and the trust she placed in the Foundation,” said Rose Bradshaw, president & CEO of North Texas Community Foundation. “This is a breathtaking gift, and it is now our duty to honor her vision with integrity and care, ensuring her gift inspires others and improves the quality of life in our region.”

Under the stewardship of North Texas Community Foundation, the Fund will distribute grants annually to support initiatives that align with the philanthropic vision Beverly set forth during her lifetime. The Foundation will ensure the fund’s resources are distributed effectively and sustainably based on her intent.

The first grant from the estate was announced on March 7th, with $500,000 awarded to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden in support of its new masterplan. This gift celebrates Beverly’s profound love for gardens and nature and will be instrumental in bringing the masterplan to life.

“We are grateful for the significant gift from Beverly’s estate,” said Patrick Newman, president & CEO of Fort Worth Botanic Garden. “Her support brings us closer to realizing our vision, creating a space that not only nurtures beauty and tranquility, but fosters connections with nature for generations to come.”

Beverly passed away last year at the age of 88. Born in Fort Worth, she graduated from Texas Christian University with a degree in business administration. She poured her business acumen, passion for historic preservation, and keen eye for design into building and managing several businesses, including the Balboa Bay Club and her beloved antique store, Beverly & Company. She spent her final years in Dallas, where she worked tirelessly to secure historic landmark designations for the Jackson and Burgher Residences so that these architectural treasures can be enjoyed by generations of North Texans.

Known for her impeccable style and passion for supporting the causes and charities she cared about most, Beverly made a lasting impact through her support of the arts, young women’s education, historic preservation, animals, land conservation, and vulnerable populations.

“Beverly was a remarkable person,” Bradshaw continued. “Her gift is a true testament to the power of philanthropy and the enduring impact one person can have on an entire community.”

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We are pleased to recognize Janet L. Hahn as the Professional Advisor of the Year. As an estate planning attorney, Janet guides clients in making informed decisions to secure their legacy for current and future generations. Alongside the Decker Jones team, she supports business enterprises, their owners, directors, and managers. Janet also provides expert counsel to business owners and their families, helping them navigate succession planning for both their businesses and family ownership groups.

Beyond her professional work, Janet is deeply committed to her community. She has served on numerous charitable and civic committees and boards such as The Women’s Center of Tarrant County, the Tarrant County College Foundation, Baylor Scott and White All Saints Medical Center and Women Steering Business.  

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Anita Berry Martin

In the 1960s and 1970s, Anita attained professional success in computer systems engineering. A personal interest in genetics fueled Anita’s second career in Arabian horse breeding. Her enterprise, Greystone Arabians, located in Parker County, became one of the premier Arabian breeding and show horse ranches in the country. Her legacy lives on through the Anita Berry Martin Memorial Fund, which supports nonprofits focused on land conservation, equine therapy, and horse welfare.

Hazel Vaugh Leigh

Hazel Vaughn Leigh was a lifelong socialite, philanthropist, and civic leader committed to improving the lives of boys in Tarrant County. She founded and led the Fort Worth Boys Club, which later merged with the Panther Boys Club to form the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Fort Worth. For years, she was the only female director of a boys’ club in the United States. Established in 1983, the Hazel Vaughn Leigh Youth Fund was one of the first funds opened at North Texas Community Foundation. Today, NTCF continues her legacy of supporting local youth.

Helen Wallace

Helen Wallace was one of downtown Fort Worth’s most colorful business people, running R.E. Wallace Stamp and Coins with her husband. A nationally recognized expert in rare stamps, coins, and postal history, her advice was sought by collectors nationwide. In honor of her lifelong passion for rescuing animals, the Helen D. and R.E. Wallace Foundation Fund’s primary purpose is to assist efforts that rescue and help animals that are injured, abused, or lost.

Maggie B. Weldon

The Maggie B. Weldon Scholarship Fund, established through an estate gift, supports graduating seniors from Mineral Wells High School who plan to attend Weatherford College. Maggie, a lifelong resident of Mineral Wells and former Health Inspector, was unable to attend college herself but was proud that her life’s earning could help students in her community pursue higher education.

To learn more about how you can establish a legacy, visit: https://northtexascf.org/give-later/

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While private philanthropy cannot fully replace the loss of public funding, donors are essential in helping sustain and strengthen the nonprofit sector. Now, more than ever, your support can have a meaningful impact. Here’s how you can get involved today:

1. Reach Out to the Nonprofits You Support

Check in with the organizations you support to learn their current needs. Their challenges may have changed due to policy shifts, higher demand, or inflation. Understanding both their immediate and long-term needs will help you give more effectively.

2. Increase Your Giving—And Make It Flexible

If you’re in a position to give, now is the time. Consider increasing your support or committing to multi-year funding to help nonprofits plan more effectively. Unrestricted donations are especially valuable in uncertain times, allowing organizations to direct resources where they’re needed most. Flexible, unrestricted funding empowers them to remain responsive, resilient, and impactful.

3. Explore Corporate and Business Giving

While individual donors remain a cornerstone of philanthropy, businesses also have a role to play. If you have corporate connections, consider advocating for or giving through corporate giving programs, sponsorships, or employee matching gifts that can amplify funding.

4. Support The Fund for Good

A powerful way to support our community is through the Fund for Good at NTCF, backed by donors who recognize that community needs and nonprofit priorities are constantly evolving – and they trust North Texas Community Foundation to meet these needs, both today and in the future. To support the Fund for Good, visit this link. Current fundholders can also give through the My NTCF Fund portal.

5. Stay Engaged

Engage in conversations about the value of nonprofit work and stay informed about the challenges and opportunities facing philanthropy.

Your generosity has been a driving force in building strong, vibrant communities across North Texas. If you have questions about how to maximize your impact, North Texas Community Foundation is here to help.

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“Our mission has always been to connect donors to the causes they care about most,” Rose Bradshaw, president & CEO of North Texas Community Foundation. “This milestone reflects a deep-seated culture of generosity in our community. As we look ahead, we remain committed to driving positive change and addressing the needs of our region.”

Over the past year, 1,300 organizations received grants supporting programs in a wide range of areas such as education, healthcare, arts and culture, economic development, and environmental conservation.

Among the highlights are:

> In its inaugural year, the Fund for Good granted a total of $500,000 to support transformative community projects. The fund awarded grants to Presbyterian Night Shelter for their Journey Home Housing program, and to Best Place for Kids for their work with the Tarrant County Maternal & Infant Health Coalition.

> $202,250 in funding was awarded to 18 organizations through ToolBox Grants to build the capacity of organizations serving our most vulnerable communities.

> The Conservation and Environment Fund and Animal Fund grant cycles awarded $290,344 to 29 nonprofits. Nonprofits across the Foundation’s 11-county service area were invited to apply.

The Foundation ended 2024 with total assets of $549 million. New donors opened 35 new charitable funds, and the Foundation received gifts totaling $51 million, which will fuel future investment in our community. The Foundation serves a network of more than 330 individuals, families and businesses across its 11-county region.

“This record-breaking achievement is a testament to the generosity of our donors, the dedication of our staff, and the resilience of the nonprofit community. Together, we are making a lasting impact across North Texas,” said Dan McCarthy, board chair of North Texas Community Foundation.

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Organizations like AB Christian Learning Center play a vital role in shaping the future of Stop Six by providing educational resources to families and children within the neighborhood, specifically at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center. As a Toolbox Fund grantee, AB Christan Learning Center continues to strengthen the community by providing after-school and summer learning programs for children aged 4 to 12 and advising families on the support they need to become advocates for their children’s education.

Another key organization in Stop Six is Community Frontline, which is committed to mobilizing men to engage in and alleviate suffering within their communities. Their work focuses on four pillars: racial justice, police/community relations, mentoring/education, and community development. The Tubman Gallery, run by Community Frontline as part of their community development efforts, is a noncommercial art gallery in East Fort Worth that showcases the work of underrepresented artists. Supported by the Arts & Culture Fund, it serves as a space to foster creativity and cultural expression.

Meals on Wheels recently began serving meals at Cowan Place Senior Living, a 174-unit housing development in Stop Six for seniors 64 and older. This new congregate meal site provides lunch daily, ensuring seniors in the area have access to fresh, nutritious meals. Since 1985, funding from the Ella C. McFadden Endowment Fund has helped sustain and expand the organization’s mission to combat hunger and isolation.

Stop Six stands as a powerful example of perseverance and progress, where community organizations and dedicated leaders honor its rich history while paving the way for a brighter future. As it evolves, Stop Six embodies the strength and unity of its people, with past and present efforts working together to create a thriving, vibrant community for all who call it home.

The post Stop Six: Bridging Historic Roots with Community Growth appeared first on North Texas Community Foundation.

In the coming weeks, we will be featuring three of Fort Worth’s historically Black neighborhoods: Historic Southside, Como, and Stop Six. These communities have long served as centers of culture and resilience, with former residents like William McDonald, Hazel Harvey Peace, and Opal Lee leaving a lasting impact on the city’s past, present, and future. Through our partnerships and grantmaking, we are proud to support organizations working to preserve these neighborhoods’ legacies while promoting economic mobility and community development.

This week, we spotlight the Historic Southside, whose rich history and vibrant present are a testament to the power of community and the enduring legacy of its residents. Established in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Historic Southside became a thriving hub for Black residents, businesses, and cultural institutions during segregation. Today, the area is experiencing a revival, balancing the preservation of its rich history with new opportunities for growth.

Organizations like the National Juneteenth Museum are central to this transformation. Dedicated to preserving the history of Juneteenth, the museum connects the stories of emancipation to ongoing efforts for equity and justice. With support from NTCF, the National Juneteenth Museum hired a museum strategist to develop a curatorial and strategic plan for the museum, set to open in 2026.

Another vital organization making a difference is BRAVE/R Together. BRAVE/R Together aims to achieve health equity in 76104 by eradicating disparities in education, healthcare, housing, and business/economic development. Through a $25,000 grant from the Conservation & Environment Fund, BRAVE/R will be able to acquire and convert vacant lots in 76104 into green spaces.

The Tarrant County Black Historical and Genealogical Society plays a vital role in preserving the legacy of Historic Southside. By collecting, organizing, and sharing African American historical contributions, the Society educates and empowers the community while honoring its rich heritage. Managing the Lenora Rolla Heritage Center Museum, the Society serves as a steward of history. With support from NTCF’s Arts Fund, the society continues its mission to celebrate and preserve the cultural treasures of the Historic Southside.

As this series continues, we invite you to reflect on the importance of preserving and investing in Fort Worth’s historically Black neighborhoods. By working together, we can ensure these communities remain strong, vibrant, and celebrated for generations to come.

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