The Community Foundation of the
Publication Date: April 2026
FEATURES
2 Message from the Board of Governors Chair
Celebrating Board Members
Our Strategic Planning Journey
The Amazon Rappahannock Region Community Fund 3 4 5 7 9
The Anne Felder Fund
Fairy Godmother Project - Women & Girls Fund
FY26 BOARD OF GOVENORS:
Kimberly Young, PhD., President
Steve Norair JD, President-Elect
Randall O Harris, Secretary
Harry D Dickinson, PhD , CPA, Treasurer
Paul Giambra, Past President
G William “Billy” Beale
William Boldon
June Drake
Andrew Grossnickle, CPA
Daniel I Hansen
Gayle Hock
Tyrone A Logan
Benjamin R Maxwell
Amy McCullough
Jennifer McGovern, Esq
Brooke Miller
Addison Pock
Reggie Samuel
Kristin Shields, Esq
STAFF:
Jamee Rodgers, PhD , CEO
Angela Tran, CFO
Casey Hu, Director of Donor Services
Jessica Dirks, Program Specialist
Iyana Umstead, Executive Admin & Donor Relations
Dear Friends,
Message from Our Board Chair,
Kimberly Young, Ed.D.
It is an honor to serve as President of the Board of Governors for the Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region, and to share a glimpse into the meaningful progress your generosity continues to make possible
Over the past year, our Board has strengthened its commitment to leadership and engagement through a more active committee structure creating greater focus, accountability, and momentum behind our work I am grateful for our renewed energy as we move forward with clarity and purpose to meet the evolving needs of our community
Together, we celebrated a major milestone with the completion of the first round of the Amazon Web Services $300,000 grant awards This initiative not only supported impactful organizations across our region, but also created a unique opportunity to partner with our Youth in Philanthropy program resulting in additional grant support for two organizations and empowering the next generation of community leaders I encourage you to read the featured story in this newsletter to see this impact firsthand
At the same time, we are looking ahead to our strategic future in partnership with our new CEO. The Foundation has entered a strategic planning process focused on ensuring a sustainable and forward-thinking future Through this work, we are taking a deeper look at our role, our strengths, and how we compare with peer organizations across the country ensuring we are positioned to grow our impact for years to come
We also continue to build on the traditions that bring our community together Our Ring in the Holidays fundraiser was a wonderful success, and we look forward to gathering again this year to celebrate generosity and shared purpose
Importantly, we are investing in the future of our children through the launch of a new grant initiative focused on improving third-grade reading levels Literacy is foundational to lifelong success, and we are excited to see the meaningful impact this program will have across our region.
As we move into the season of celebrating with the Women and Girls Fund and awarding scholarships to our youth, we should take a moment to recognize these milestones are a reflection of what is possible because of you
Your support allows the Community Foundation to remain responsive, innovative, and deeply connected to the needs of this region As we continue this important work, I invite you to stay engaged, stay inspired, and consider how you can be part of what comes next
Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient community
With gratitude
KIMBERLY YOUNG, ED.D. PRESIDENT, BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Celebrating Board Members
Celebrating Board Service: Ben Maxwell
We are grateful to Ben Maxwell for his years of service and leadership across multiple terms on the board As President and a key leader on the Investment Committee, Ben played a vital role in advancing the organization’s financial strength and sustainability His broad committee involvement and commitment to mission-driven work have left a meaningful and lasting impact
Celebrating Board Service: Harry Dickinson
We extend our deepest gratitude to Harry Dickinson, one of our founding board members, for his extraordinary and enduring service Over multiple decades, Harry has provided exceptional leadership, including serving in key roles as Treasurer, President-Elect, and President His guidance and expertise particularly in Finance & Audit and Investment have been instrumental in strengthening the organization’s financial integrity and long-term sustainability Harry’s legacy is one of commitment, stewardship, and unwavering dedication
Celebrating Board Service: Paul Giambra
We proudly recognize Paul Giambra for his dedicated service and impactful leadership on the board Progressing through the roles of President-Elect, President, and Immediate Past President, Paul helped guide the organization through important strategic initiatives His leadership, particularly in Strategic Directions and Finance & Audit, has contributed significantly to shaping a thoughtful and forward-looking vision for the future
Building the Next Era of Impact: Our Strategic Planning Journey
At The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region, our mission has always centered on connecting generosity with community need and creating lasting impact across the region we proudly serve
Since inception, the Foundation has invested more than $24 8 million in grants and scholarships to support the people, programs, and initiatives that define and uplift our community Today, we steward 226 named charitable funds established by donors to address a wide range of causes from education and workforce development to human services, the arts, and community vitality
Beyond grantmaking, the Foundation serves as a trusted philanthropic leader and resource We have provided more than 8,000 hours of education and training for local nonprofits, equipping organizations with the knowledge, tools, and connections needed to maximize their impact and build long-term sustainability
With more than $60 million in net assets under management, the Foundation maintains a strong financial foundation and a long-term commitment to responsible stewardship Our strength helps ensure that the charitable legacies entrusted to us continue to serve this region today and for generations to come
Those milestones are worth celebrating, but they are also the foundation for what comes next
Led jointly by CEO Dr Jamee Rodgers and the Foundation’s Board of Governors, the organization is currently engaged in a comprehensive strategic planning process designed to guide the next chapter of service and impact
This is an exciting moment for our organization and our region We are building on a strong legacy while thoughtfully preparing for the future Our strategic plan will help us sharpen our focus, respond to evolving community needs, and ensure we continue creating meaningful opportunities for generations to come ”
JAMEE RODGERS, PhD. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF THE RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER REGION
This planning effort is intentionally collaborative and rooted in community voice Through surveys, listening roundtables, and direct outreach, the Foundation is gathering insight from donors, nonprofit partners, community leaders, and residents across the region Their perspectives will help shape priorities and ensure the plan reflects the real needs, opportunities, and aspirations of the communities we serve
The process also reflects the leadership and vision of the Board of Governors, whose commitment to thoughtful stewardship and long-term impact continues to guide the Foundation’s future Together, this work represents more than a plan, it is a shared roadmap for the next era of community impact
The Foundation anticipates completing the strategic plan this fall, with formal adoption expected in November As this important work continues, we remain committed to doing what we do best: bringing people together, investing in possibility, and helping our region thrive
A Legacy of Love
The Anne Felder Fund Continues to Support People With Intellectual Disabilities Who Live in the Fredericksburg Community
For Paula Felder, love for her daughter Anne, best known as Annie, was not only expressed in the care she provided throughout her lifetime, it was also carefully planned for the future
That love now lives on through the Anne Felder Fund at the Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region, which recently received an additional $1 million contribution from the Felder family following Anne’s passing on April 22, 2025 The gift ensures that the fund will continue supporting programs and organizations that improve and enrich the lives of people with intellectual disabilities and disadvantaged individuals across the Fredericksburg region
To ensure Annie’s lifelong care, Paula Felder established a dedicated trust, thoughtfully planning that upon Annie’s passing, the remaining funds would be directed to the Anne Felder Fund In this final act of foresight and generosity, Paula transformed personal care into lasting support for other people with intellectual disabilities and disadvantaged individuals in the community
A Mother’s Determination
Annie Felder was born during a time when children with intellectual disabilities were often institutionalized When doctors advised Paula to place her daughter in a facility, Paula refused
Instead, she chose a different path, one rooted in advocacy, dignity, and independence
Paula, a respected historian who moved to Fredericksburg in 1975 and authored works on regional history and George Washington, was also a meticulous planner She understood early on that Annie’s care would be a lifelong responsibility, and she began preparing for it with intention
As Annie grew older, Paula searched tirelessly for a place where her daughter could live with both support and independence When the right home could not be found, Paula helped create one
Annie eventually moved into a group home in the Fredericksburg area in 1994, where she was able to choose her own room and begin living more independently alongside other women For Annie, it was transformative
She was so happy there She finally had a space of her own ”
PAULINE FELDER ANNE’S SISTER
The home, part of a network supported by Hope Tree Family Services, provides community, outings, and meaningful daily life experiences Through its Developmental Disabilities Ministry, the organization offers safe, supportive group homes for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, creating environments where residents can grow, build independence, and feel a true sense of belonging
A Life Filled With Love
Annie’s personality filled the home
She loved music, especially John Denver, and was known to perform along with him during recordings played in the living room Family members fondly recall road trips listening to John Denver songs and evenings out for dinner at her favorite restaurant, IHOP
She adored shopping, choosing outfits, and celebrating holidays In recent years, she developed a love for the movie Frozen, adding it to her collection of favorite entertainment
Those who knew Annie remember her as persistent and determined to live life to the fullest She was truly one of a kind thoughtful, deeply caring, and unwavering in her love for those around her Annie was also assertive and a strong self-advocate, always making her voice heard and ensuring her needs and desires were understood
Turning Personal Care into Community Impact
Paula’s vision extended beyond Annie’s immediate needs
Through careful financial planning and the establishment of a trust, Paula ensured that funds would support Annie throughout her lifetime At the same time, she made provisions for the remaining resources to benefit others in the community after Annie’s passing
Following Annie’s death in April 2025, the remaining trust assets approximately $1 million were transferred to the Anne Felder Fund at the Community Foundation, significantly expanding its capacity to support nonprofits serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities The fund now continues Paula’s mission by providing grants to organizations working directly with this population
Supporting Programs That Change Lives
In 2025 alone, the Anne Felder Fund awarded $12,300 in grants to several local nonprofits, including:
Sensory Theatre Endless Possibilities (STEP VA) –supporting inclusive sensory theater programming Rappahannock Area YMCA – funding daily living skills classes for intellectually disabled individuals
Hope Tree Family Services – purchasing furniture and patio items for two Fredericksburg-area group homes
Special Olympics Virginia – supporting Unified Champion Schools programs that build inclusive friendships between students with and without disabilities
These programs help provide opportunities for independence, social connection, and personal growth, exactly the kind of support Paula wanted Annie and others like her to experience
A Legacy That Will Continue
The Anne Felder Fund stands as a powerful example of how personal love can become a lasting community impact
What began as a mother’s plan to care for her daughter has grown into a permanent source of support for individuals and families navigating the challenges of intellectual disability
Through the stewardship of the Community Foundation, Paula and Annie’s legacy will continue helping people across the Fredericksburg region live fuller, more connected lives
LEARN
MORE ABOUT THIS FUND
At The Community Foundation, we believe that when women and girls are empowered, entire communities thrive The Women & Girls Fund is more than a charitable fund It is a growing movement of women and community members coming together to invest in opportunity, equity, and long-term change across our region
Established by the Community Foundation’s Board of Governors in 2008–2009, the Women & Girls Fund brings together women of all backgrounds to pool their resources and collectively direct grantmaking Today, more than 530 members are part of this giving circle, each contributing time, treasure, and talent to support initiatives that uplift women and girls
A hallmark of this collective impact is the Fund’s annual Live Ballot event, held each May This signature gathering brings members together to hear directly from selected nonprofit finalists and vote in real time to award a $50,000 grant to one organization creating meaningful change
At last year ’ s Live Ballot event, members selected the Fairy Godmother Project as the 2025 grant recipient
Based in Fredericksburg, the Fairy Godmother Project (FGP) provides compassionate, hands-on support to families facing pediatric cancer What truly sets them apart is who they center in their care
Investing in Strength, Creating Lasting Impact
A Year of Meaningful Impact
Over the past year, the $50,000 Women & Girls Fund award allowed FGP to expand this mission in meaningful ways, serving 36 families and 164 individuals as treatment timelines increased and needs grew more complex
Through this support, FGP delivered both immediate relief and long-term care, including: 318 community care packages thoughtfully prepared by volunteers
2,853 volunteer hours dedicated to supporting families
$100,185 in in-kind donations including meals, clothing, and essential items
Direct financial assistance and daily living support such as groceries, gas, and household services
4 families supported through end-of-life care, funeral planning, and the first year after loss
These numbers tell a powerful story, but the real impact is felt in the quiet, meaningful moments they make possible
We are a unique organization in pediatric cancer support because we focus on the caregivers and family members who are also deeply affected. At the heart of what we do is giving families the gift of time, precious time to be present with their child, to cherish moments together, and to focus on what matters most ”
Unlike most pediatric cancer organizations that focus primarily on the child, FGP focuses on the parents and caregivers, most often mothers, who are holding everything together during an incredibly difficult time. Their philosophy is simple but powerful By alleviating day-to-day stress through emotional and financial support, they give caregivers the gift of time Time to be present, to support their child, and to hold their family together
CATHLEEN PESSOLANO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, FAIRY GODMOTHER PROJECT
One story shared in their report captures this impact deeply Volunteers came together to prepare a family’s backyard so their child could return home safely during end-of-life care While circumstances changed, the effort gave the family peace of mind and allowed them to focus on their child rather than the burdens of daily life It is a reminder that even the smallest acts can create lasting meaning
The Power of Collective Giving
The Women & Girls Fund continues to demonstrate what is possible when women come together with a shared purpose Each year, through the Live Ballot event, members do more than contribute They actively participate in directing funding where it will have the greatest impact
The Women & Girls Fund represents the kind of momentum our community needs, women coming together to invest in one another and create lasting change By supporting women-focused initiatives, we are not only addressing immediate needs, but building stronger, more resilient communities for the future ”
KIMBERLY YOUNG, PHD. CHAIR OF THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION’S BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Join the Movement
The founding vision of the Women & Girls Fund was bold: 1,000 women each contributing $1,000 to build a $1 million endowment That vision is still within reach, and every new member brings us closer
By joining, you become part of a collective voice shaping how resources are invested in our region Together, we are not just giving We are creating opportunity, strengthening families, and building a legacy of impact for generations to come
LEARN MORE & JOIN THE WOMEN & GIRLS FUND
WHY JOIN?
Be a part of something bigger: Join a powerful network of women creating meaningful, collective impact
Have a voice: Help review, discuss and vote on which nonprofit receives the $50,000 grant
Engage in philanthropy: Learn, connect and take an active role in community-driven giving
Expand the impact: Invite others and grow a movement that supports women and girls
WHY GIVE?
Multiply your impact: Your gift combines with others to fund one transformational $50,000 grant
Support what matters: Invest in programs that improve outcomes for women and girls
Create lasting change: Help organizations grow, scale and deliver measurable results
Be a part of a shared vision: Fuel a collective effort to strengthen families and communities
The Amazon Rappahannock Region Community
Fund
The Amazon Rappahannock Region Community Fund (Amazon Fund) Continues to Create Opportunity for Local
Youth and Outdoor Access
The power of community giving often shines brightest through the lives it changes In the winter of 2025, high school students participating in the Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) program discussed ways to fund two projects they saw as meaningful to our community While YIP typically grants one $10,000 award, participants were eager to advocate for additional fund in support of projects that would directly benefit youth in Planning District 16 Thanks to additional contributions through the Amazon Fund, two local organizations Girls on the Run Piedmont and Friends of the Rappahannock are expanding opportunities for young people across our region in meaningful and lasting ways
These investments reflect the Amazon Fund’s continued commitment to strengthening communities through programs that promote confidence, inclusion, health, and access
Building Confidence One Step at a Time
At Girls on the Run Piedmont, support from the Amazon Fund is helping remove financial barriers so more girls can participate in a program designed to strengthen confidence, resilience, and self-worth
This season ’ s Hello, Superstar curriculum encourages girls to embrace who they are, use their voice, and believe they can do hard things
For one participant, called Ava, the journey began quietly She spent her first few practices standing on the sidelines, unsure if she belonged With patient encouragement from her coach and the support of her team, Ava slowly began to step forward joining conversations, participating in runs, and setting a goal to complete one lap without stopping
Now, just weeks later, she is preparing to cross the starting line of her first 5K
Her story is a reminder that confidence is not always loud or immediate Often, it is built little by little in safe spaces, through caring mentorship, and in the moments when a child chooses to try again
Because of this support, more girls like Ava can discover their strength long before they ever reach a finish line
Expanding Access to Nature for Every Child
At Friends of the Rappahannock, a $10,000 gift from the Amazon Fund is helping make outdoor education more accessible for students with mobility challenges
The organization is currently exploring the purchase of an all-terrain wheelchair designed to safely navigate natural surfaces such as mulch, rocks, and tree roots terrain that traditional wheelchairs often cannot manage
Each year, FOR welcomes more than 8,000 students to its nature preserve in Fredericksburg for hands-on environmental learning experiences along the Rappahannock River This new equipment would help ensure that all students, regardless of mobility limitations, can fully participate in those experiences
FOR educators say the need is clear They have seen firsthand the challenges faced by students and paraprofessionals attempting to navigate trails with standard wheelchairs This investment moves them closer to a future where no child is left on the sidelines of outdoor learning
Investing in a Stronger Future
Whether helping a young girl find her confidence or ensuring every student can explore the outdoors, these additional Amazon Fund contributions are creating real impact where it matters most
The Community Foundation is proud to help steward partnerships that turn generosity into
