Issue link: http://papercitymagazine.uberflip.com/i/1484759
Jim Kastleman JACK THOMPSON T he holiday season makes most of us reflect on charity — and how the efforts we make towards others can make such a difference in their lives. In November, the Fayette Community Foundation held its first annual Rural Philanthropy Day, co-hosted by the Stanzel Family Foundation and brought together through FCF's executive director, Susannah Mikulin. FCF serves to educate, support, advise, and help nonprofits reach their fundraising goals. Rural Philanthropy Day was like FCF coming to life, with 166 attendees ranging from nonprofits to funders. It was a day of learning best practices of governance, fundraising, operations, volunteers, grant writing, and marketing. The afternoon round tables connected funders with nonprofits — sort of like speed dating meets fundraising. It also educated funders on the needs of the local communities. Co-chair Reenie Collins and honorar y co-chair C ra i g M o re a u w e r e thrilled with the turnout and efforts. Moreau says, "RPD helps us better understand our neighbors and minister to their needs. We are all more prosperous when we work collaboratively to build capacity as a team." Collins adds, "The work of all the RPD participants as nonprofit leaders, board members, and funders is what makes our small Texas towns such vibrant and caring communities." You can see coverage of the event on roundtop.com. And be sure to visit faycofoundation.com — it's a one-stop shop if you want to participate, either through donating time or finances. They reach an 80-mile radius from La Grange, serving mostly Fayette and surrounding counties. Have a charitable holiday season! Jim Kastleman Chairman jim@papercitymag.com