2013 ar

serve

give

educate

unite

elevate

honor

connect

CREATE Foundation Annual Report 2013

Board Officers (L to R) Greg Pirkle, Vice Chairman Eddie Prather, Secretary Robin McCormick, Treasurer Tommy Tomlinson, Chairman Mike Clayborne, President Sandy Williams, Past Chairman

lead. unite. elevate.

S

ERVE. It is both a description of what we do and a call for you to join us. Serving together we can change the world.

CREATE Foundation and its partners serve the region....

• through connecting donors to community needs • by providing leadership on key community issues • by supporting and strengthening local non-profits that in turn serve the greater community

give. care. connect.

• by supporting improvement and enhancement initiatives for education • by providing leadership training opportunities for youth and adults • by supporting arts programs that help to preserve and enhance the cultural character of our region

honor. educate. help.

• by sponsoring various summits and forums to raise awareness of issues that are impacting our region • through partnerships with our community affiliates that help develop new leaders, revitalize communities, increase civic involvement and private investments throughout the region • through gifts and targeted grant-making to a wide variety of funds and grants

serve. lead. serve. give.

CREATE founders George and Keirsey McLean believed that communities should join together to serve their fellowman, to elevate those who are less fortunate, to cultivate adult and student leaders, and to offer education enhancement and improvement for all. To all those in our communities who continue to work tirelessly to help make that vision a reality, we say, “Thank you.” We are truly fortunate to be associated with so many dedicated and caring individuals.

Tommy Tomlinson, Chairman

Mike Clayborne, President

Directors

C

REATE’s directors are

community leaders and

volunteers with keen insight into regional needs and issues. Many share experience and expertise in financial and legal matters.

They are donors themselves, demonstrating that their com-

David L. Beckley, Ph.D. President Rust College Holly Springs

Johnny L. “Chip” Crane President F.L. Crane & Sons Fulton

Ormella Cummings, Ph.D. John Creekmore Chief Strategy Officer Attorney Creekmore Law Office, PLLC North MS Health Services Tupelo Amory

mitment extends to sharing their own financial resources. The caliber of CREATE’s leadership is often a key reason for donor confidence in the foundation.

CREATE Founders George A. McLean 1904-1983 Anna Keirsey McLean 1906-2000

Bobby Harper W. G. “Mickey” Holliman Senior Vice President/ Managing Partner Business Development Officer Five Star, LLC Renasant Bank Tupelo Columbus

Octavious Ivy Clinical/Support Services NMMC Tupelo

Gloria Kellum, Ph.D. Retired Vice Chancellor for University Relations, UM Oxford

Directors Emeritus Felix Black 1917-2003 Jim Ingram 1930-2006 James Hugh Ray 1927-2007 J.C. Whitehead 1921-2004

Robin McGraw Chairman & CEO Renasant Bank Tupelo

Ronny Rowland Manager Prentiss County Electric Power Association Booneville

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Buddy Montgomery Aubrey Patterson President Chairman of the Board First National Bank of Pontotoc BancorpSouth Pontotoc Tupelo

David Rumbarger President & CEO Community Development Foundation Tupelo

Tommy Tomlinson Division President Renasant Bank Starkville

Greg Pirkle Attorney Phelps Dunbar, LLP Tupelo

H.L. “Sandy” Williams, Jr. President Coca Cola Bottling Works Corporation Corinth

CREATE STAFF Michael K. Clayborne President

Kenny Dill Retired West Point

Clay Foster President & CEO, Publisher Journal, Inc. Tupelo

Hassell H. Franklin CEO Franklin Corporation Houston

Betsey Hamilton Community Volunteer New Albany

Lewis Whitfield Senior Vice President

Juanita Floyd Vice President of Finance & Administration

Jennie Hannah Director of Communications Larry Kirk Retired CEO Hancock Fabrics, Inc. Tupelo

Randy Long President Long Wholesale Distributors, Inc. Corinth

Robin McCormick Bobby P. Martin Partner Chairman of the Board Watkins, Ward & Stafford, PLLC The Peoples Bank West Point Ripley

Mary Alice McLaurin Commission Administrative Assistant

lead.

Beverly Williams Director of Finance

Eddie Prather Consultant The Excellence Group Tupelo

Melvin C. Ray, Ph.D. Associate Vice President for Economic Development Mississippi State University Starkville

Guy Mitchell, III Board Counsel Attorney Mitchell, McNutt & Sams, P. A. Tupelo

Jack Reed, Sr. Chairman Reed’s Tupelo

Cathy Robertson Executive Vice President BancorpSouth Tupelo

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Commission on the Future of Northeast Mississippi

E

stablished in 1995, the Commission functions as

the program arm of the CREATE Foundation. The purpose of the Commission is to help unite the region through community development. To achieve its purpose, the Commission studies regional data, identifies key issues, sets regional goals, and recommends solutions.

Over the last several years, the Commission has focused most of its time and energy on initiatives that are designed to improve educational quality and attainment.

TUITION GUARANTEE In the fall of 2013, a total of 2,782 recent high school graduates from 16 of our 17 counties enrolled in this program at one of the four community colleges serving our region. Marshall County will support this program beginning in

The Commission’s Tuition Guarantee program helps provide a brighter future for students in our region. The above Northeast Mississippi Com-

the fall of 2014, which will give us

munity College student has realized her dream

100% participation.

of receiving an associates degree.

An effort was made in the Mississippi Legislature to extend a sim-

(Top right) Philip Gunn, Speaker of the Mississippi House of Representatives, addresses his vision for our state.

ilar program throughout the state.

(Above right) Joe Max Higgins, CEO of the

Regional legislators were asked to

Golden Triangle Development Link, explains the

support this program again in the 2014 legislative session.

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secret of his economic development success at the annual State of the Region meeting held in May.

School District explained its highly successful approach to reducing dropouts.

DROPOUT PREVENTION SUMMIT VII In February, more than 25 public school districts within the region assembled to network and discuss potential cures for the dropout issue. The group heard interesting presentations on the Gilmore Foundation’s partnership with several public schools in Monroe County to provide early childhood learning centers within the schools’ facilities. A variety of relevant topics were presented including a character-building program called Integrity Time, and dual enrollment opportunities at the high school-community college levels. In addition, the Booneville Public

STATE OF THE REGION Philip Gunn (top left), Speaker of Mississippi’s House of Representatives, addressed his vision for our state as his remarks focused on education, economic development, and the link between the two. Educational efficiency will improve educational effectiveness and provide the foundation for an outstanding economy, according to Speaker Gunn.

Joe Max Higgins (left), CEO of the Golden Triangle Development Link, described the commitment to new infrastructure and aggressive marketing that has led to the creation of more than 5,200 jobs and $4.5 billion in capital investments since 2003 in his community.

The Link is now providing economic development services to Clay, Lowndes, and Oktibbeha Counties.

As a result of this expanded mission, the Link was directly responsible for Yokohama Tire’s decision to build a new manufacturing facility just north of West Point.

unite.

COMMISSION MEMBERS Alcorn Gary Chandler John Mercier Clayton Stanley Benton Senator Bill Stone Glossie Terry Calhoun John Burt Lisa McNeece Chickasaw Patsy Gregory Bill Smith Clay Kenny Dill Eddie Longstreet Itawamba B.J. Canup Mike Eaton Lafayette John Adams Dr. Gloria Kellum Randy Leister Lee Grace Clark Glenn McCullough, Jr. (Chair) Guy Mitchell, III (Vice Chair) Paul Mize, Jr. Judge Rickey Thompson Lowndes Nick Ardillo Allegra Brigham Birney Imes Marshall Dr. Gemma Beckley Andre DeBerry Sarah Sawyer Monroe Dr. Lavon Fluker-Reed Skip Miles Jean Pinkley Oktibbeha Rhonda Keenum Terry Kemp Dr. Tommy Stevenson Pontotoc Phyllis Ford High Judge James L. Roberts, Jr. Prentiss Ronny Rowland Tippah Duane Bullard Kyle Smith Tishomingo Dr. Bob Ferguson Greg Pharr Union Betsey Hamilton Phil Morris At Large Hassell Franklin Denotee Martin Eddie Prather Bill Renick Milton Sundbeck Emeritus Bobby Martin Jack Reed, Sr. Sandy Williams University Lee Tyner, UM Kyle Steward, MSU

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Community Affiliates C

REATE Foundation and its twelve community affiliates work together to help revitalize communities, develop new leaders and increase civic involvement and private investments throughout the region. Community affiliates support a wide range of initiatives that help elevate the people within their counties. Whether it’s providing weekend backpack meals for kindergarten students or supporting local arts initiatives, community affiliates are there supporting efforts that elevate the people in their communities.

LOFT Receives the James Hugh Ray Award LOFT, CREATE’s affiliate for Lafayette County, received the 2013 James Hugh Ray Community Affiliate Award. The award commemorates James Hugh Ray’s many contributions to our region and to the CREATE Foundation. Mr. Ray loyally served both the CREATE and Journal Boards and became the legal architect and advisor for establishing the CREATE Foundation. Like Mr. Ray, LOFT has distinguished itself as an organization of integrity and dedication. Established in 2002, LOFT is helping elevate the citizens of Oxford and Lafayette County. Recent grants include $2,500 for Mimiosprout reading software to the Boys and Girls Clubs of North Mississippi Barksdale Clubhouse; $2,500 to Camp Lake Stephens for an outdoor learning center; $2,000 to Friends of Thacker Mountain Radio (a local music and literature radio program) for sound equipment; $2,500 to Oxford Medical Ministries for a diabetic prevention, education and management program; $3,993 to the University of Mississippi Museum for its Interactive Education Area; $1000 to the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council for its Art for Everyone program and theater update.

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Lafayette/Oxford Foundation for Tomorrow

port its development and renovation. The Oxford

(LOFT) works to help elevate Lafayette County

community (top right) joins together to celebrate

and its citizens. Laura Parkinson and Jean

the dedication of the Museum and Multicultural

Jordan of LOFT (above) accept the 2013 James

Center. LOFT also provided support for the Camp

Hugh Ray Community Affiliate Award at

Lake Stephens Outdoor Center (above right).

CREATE’s annual Fall Summit. The Burns Belfry Museum and Multicultural Center (top) has received to date $20,000 in LOFT grants to sup-

Affiliate Endowment Balances Alcorn County-CARE $1,383,721 Corinth-Alcorn Reaching for Excellence Calhoun County $262,367 Calhoun County Endowment Fund Chickasaw County-PACE $450,298 Partners in Achieving Community Excellence Clay County $1,164,612 West Point Community Foundation Itawamba County-FIRST $659,972 Friends of Itawamba Responding to Secure Tomorrow Lafayette County-LOFT $718,316 Lafayette/Oxford Foundation for Tomorrow Lowndes County $240,906 Columbus/Lowndes Community Foundation Monroe County $358,464 North Monroe County Community Fund $185,324 South Monroe County Community Fund $173,140

elevate.

Oktibbeha County-SOAR $337,949 Starkville-Oktibbeha Achieving Results

Tippah County-TARGET $371,843 Tippah and Ripley Growing Excellent Together Union County-UNITE $582,299 Union County/New Albany Initiative to Excel

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Affiliate Boards ALCORN (CARE) Hull Davis Orma R. Smith Clayton Stanley Fred Joe Vann, Jr. H.L. “Sandy” Williams, Chair Kenneth Williams Mona Lisa Grady, Executive Director

CALHOUN Randy Baker Jim Blue John G. Burt, Co-chair Martha Martin Joel McNeece Lorna Reifers Melany Shankle Michael Watkins Bill Williams, Co-chair

CHICKASAW (PACE) Frank Alford Alford Bell Tom Byrne Betsy Collums Hassell Franklin Bobby Mooneyham, Chair Rayburn Parks Harry Robinson Bob Scott Gary Staten Hope Stanz, Executive Director

CLAY (WEST POINT) Dewel Brasher Jimmy Bryan Kenny Dill, Chair Robin McCormick Louise Campbell, Executive Director

ITAWAMBA (FIRST) Catherine Adams Patti Davis Bennett Joey Cox Laken Dobbs Graham Romona Edge Teresa Floyd Ginger Howell Sid Kirksey Matt Kline George Marquis

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Teresa McNeece Luke Montgomery Brian Quinn Jeffrey Strunk Jason Wallace, Chair Bryan Wilson Cindy Wilson

LAFAYETTE (LOFT) Ben Bolton Bette Butler Michael Joe Cannon Walt Davis Timeka Davis Anne Fair Julie Field Dotsy Fitts Teresa Flautt Sam Haskell Richard Howorth Jean Jordan, Chair Jacqui Lear Caroline Mayo Lane McCluer Caroline McIntosh Ed Meek Mike Mitchell Jane Kerr Nance Robert Paine Roy Percy Susan Phillips Mary Sharp Rayner Ken Rutherford Lisa Spraggins Molissia Swaney Sherry Wall Julie Yoste Laura Parkinson, Executive Director

LOWNDES Mary Alexander Barbara Bigelow Stevan Black Charlie Box Tom Buckley Nancy Carpenter Jim Davidson John T. Frazier Rob Graham Bobby Harper Brenda Howard Birney Imes John Jones, Chair Susan Jones Bain Nickels Helen Pridmore

Perrin Smith Stewart Stafford Alma Turner

NORTH MONROE Bobby Cleveland Nancy Crouch George Darden Mary Lib Francis Art Gentry Dottie Haney, Chair Bo Miller Geneva Moon Larry Palmer Dr. Len Pinkley Tony Poss Deborah Rogers

SOUTH MONROE Dr. Doris Blanchard Patsy Claxton Nan Corbell James Edwards, Jr. Lavon Fluker-Reed Martin Hanson Susan Honeycutt Bradley Lipsey Leon Manning Greg Miller Kathy Seymour, Chair Betsy Kahl, Executive Director

OKTIBBEHA (SOAR) John Robert Arnold Omis Avant Larnzy Carpenter Suzanne Dressel Dora Herring Pat Lane Jim Lytle Fenton Peters Buddy Staggers Nellah Taylor, Chair Charles E. Weatherly Martha Wells Ross Williams Jan Eastman, Executive Director

TIPPAH (TARGET) Dean Caviness Taj Colom Von Coombs Bob Glover, Co-chair Melissa Harrison, Co-chair Jim Jackson Beverly Moffit Deborah Hurt, Executive Director

UNION (UNITE) James (Bo) Collins Ray Collins Chuck Cooper Gary Cooper Joe Davis Cathy Garrett Jay Herrington Bobby Moore Phil Morris Thad Mueller Rodney Shands Bill Smallwood Anne J. Stephens Travis Wiseman, Chair Collette Cross, Executive Director

Supporting Organizations For more than forty years,

CREATE has offered support for organizations that want the benefit of a non-profit foundation without actually starting one themselves. Without the annual tax reporting, auditing, and administrative costs of maintaining a private foundation, supporting organizations of CREATE can put even more of their money to work enhancing and improving the quality of life for northeast Mississippi residents. CREATE is the umbrella for two supporting organizations.

The Corinth Area Arts Council, a grantee of the Pierce Foundation, is a nonprofit community service organization with the main goal of restoring and managing the Coliseum Civic Center as a civic and performing arts center for Corinth and Alcorn County.

The Coliseum Civic Center serves 30,000-40,000 patrons each year and is a perfect venue for weddings, pageants, musical productions and theatre performances.

The Benjamin and Corinne Pierce Foundation The Pierce Foundation was established

by Corinne Pierce in memory of her husband, Benjamin to commemorate his commitment to community and to honor his civic leadership. The 2013 Pierce grants and scholarships exceeded $325,000 making the total investment by the Pierce Foundation in Alcorn County more than $4.0 million.

THE HENRY MIZE FOUNDATION The Henry Mize Foundation was established in 2003. Mr. Mize’s nephew, Paul “Buzzy” Mize, established the charitable foundation because it was his uncle’s wish to continue to provide

The $11.2 million Mize Pavilion, a multi-purpose facility on the Mississippi State University campus, is partially funded by a generous grant from the Henry Mize Foundation. The Mize Pavilion features 57,611 total square feet with 28,900

funding to the organizations that he

square feet of basketball court

loved. The 2013 Mize Foundation

space.

grants exceeded $200,000 making the total investment to our region more than $3.7 million.

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Donor Advised Funds Ed and Becky Meek of Oxford understand the importance of giving back to their community.

Their donor advised fund allows them to make contributions and grant recommendations at their convenience. A CREATE donor advised fund also makes it easy to keep track of all their charitable giving.

Another advantage is that appreciated securities may be used to create the fund. These donations are not subject to capital gains tax; and in most cases, the full market value is tax deductible. All donations are deductible at the time they are made to the Foundation; however, gift disbursements may be made at a later date.

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“We have found the Donor Advised Fund at Create to be enormously helpful and convenient. We simply send an e-mail or make a call to Create, and know that our donations will follow to the intended recipient in a professional manner. This is a wonderful program that has allowed us to do more for our community.�

give.

Ed and Becky Meek Oxford, Mississippi

DONOR ADVISED FUNDS ANONYMOUS FUND ANNA MIZE ADAMS AND PAUL LOUIS ADAMS ADVISED FUND JOHN R. AND MARY FICKLIN ARNOLD ADVISED FUND AT&T ADVISED FUND MR. AND MRS. ALAN BANK ADVISED FUND BECKLEY FAMILY ADVISED FUND ALFORD AND SHELIA BELL ADVISED FUND SARA AND MONTGOMERY BERRY ADVISED FUND BIRTHDAY CLUB ADVISED FUND ROBERT AND JANE BLACK ADVISED FUND MRS. CAROLYN BOGGAN ADVISED FUND JAN BOTTS ADVISED FUND DR. AND MRS. DAN BRASFIELD ADVISED FUND MRS. ELIZABETH ANN BROWN ADVISED FUND THE LARRY BROWN ADVISED FUND JAMES D. BRYAN ADVISED FUND BULLARD FAMILY ADVISED FUND MR. AND MRS. JOHN G. BURT ADVISED FUND CARL BUSH ADVISED FUND FRED BUSH, JR. FAMILY ADVISED FUND THE BYRNE CPA CHARITABLE ADVISORY FUND CAROL BYRNE CHILDREN’S ADVISED FUND CABELL DONOR ADVISED FUND LOUISE CAMPBELL ADVISED FUND CARDIOLOGY RESEARCH LLC CARE FUND CARLOCK TOYOTA ADVISED FUND CHAD AND MARY MARGARET CASE ADVISED FUND DR. AND MRS. DOUG CLARK ADVISED FUND MR. AND MRS. MIKE CLAYBORNE ADVISED FUND COCA-COLA BOTTLING WORKS – C.T.L. CHARITABLE FUND MR. AND MRS. WILLIAM L. CREWS ADVISED FUND CUMMINGS FAMILY ADVISED FUND DALRYMPLE FAMILY ADVISED FUND FRANK AND AMY DAVIS ADVISED FUND JUDY AND BOB DAVIS ADVISED FUND MR. AND MRS. WILLIAM HULL DAVIS ADVISED FUND MR. AND MRS. WILLIAM H. DAVIS, JR. ADVISED FUND ALBERT DELGADILLO ADVISED FUND KENNY AND ANNA DILL ADVISED FUND BILL AND SANDRA EASTMAN ADVISED FUND JOE AND KIM ESTESS ADVISED FUND MR. AND MRS. BARRY FORD ADVISED FUND CLAY AND LANA FOSTER ADVISED FUND JACK AND DANA FOSTER ADVISED FUND JACK AND MARY LIB FRANCIS ADVISED FUND FRANKLIN CORPORATION ADVISED FUND HASSELL H. FRANKLIN ADVISED FUND

FREEMAN FAMILY ADVISED FUND JOHN PAUL FRERER MEMORIAL DONOR ADVISED FUND FUTURE EDUCATORS OF AMERICA (Rutledge) SCHOLARSHIP ADVISED FUND RUSSELL AND LYNN GAINES ADVISED FUND E. GLENNAN AND JANICE W. GRADY ADVISED FUND ALBERT AND BILLIE GREEN ADVISED FUND ROBIN AND ANNE HAIRE ADVISED FUND BETSEY AND TOM HAMILTON ADVISED FUND RUBYE DEL HARDEN ADVISED FUND JOHN AND SARA FRANCES HARDY ADVISED FUND JASON AND MELISSA HARRISON ADVISED FUND JIM AND LISA HAWKINS ADVISED FUND DAVID HENSON ADVISED FUND JOE AND MAROLYN HESTER ADVISED FUND SARA M. AND HOWARD R. HINDS ADVISED FUND BABS AND MICKEY HOLLIMAN ADVISED FUND NANCY INGRAM ADVISED FUND ITAWAMBA GOOD WORKS FUND - MR. AND MRS. MICHAEL WALDORF MR. AND MRS. OCTAVIOUS IVY ADVISED FUND TERRY AND KATHY JACKSON DONOR ADVISED FUND CHARLES AND JOYCE JOHNSTON ADVISED FUND JO ANN R. JONES ADVISED FUND MRS. E.L. JOYNER ADVISED FUND MR. AND MRS. ERNIE JOYNER, III ADVISED FUND MR. AND MRS. LARRY KIRK ADVISED FUND HOWARD AND SYLVIA LENHOFF FAMILY TRUST ADVISED FUND PHIL AND VICKIE LITTLE ADVISED FUND LONG DISTRIBUTORS CORINTH ADVISED FUND RANDY AND PENNY LONG ADVISED FUND ZELL LONG ADVISED FUND M AND A FAMILY ADVISED FUND TERRY G. MANN ADVISED FUND BOBBY P. AND BARBARA M. MARTIN ADVISED FUND MR. AND MRS. DENOTEE MARTIN ADVISED FUND LINDA MADDEN MARTIN MEMORIAL DONOR ADVISED FUND MARTHA AND M.B. MARTIN ADVISED FUND ROBIN Y. MCCORMICK ADVISED ROBIN AND MIMI MCGRAW ADVISED FUND ED AND HELEN MEEK ADVISED FUND ANN PHILLIPS AND HUGHES MILAM ADVISED FUND STEPHEN AND SONYA MILES DONOR ADVISED FUND SUSAN AND GUY MITCHELL ADVISED FUND TFI/ANN B. MITCHELL ADVISED FUND MITCHELL, MCNUTT AND SAMS ADVISED FUND CATHERINE AND PAUL MIZE ADVISED FUND MR. AND MRS. THEODORE S. MOLL ADVISED FUND

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MARSHALL AND DAPHNE MONTGOMERY ADVISED FUND

SARA STEPHENS ADVISED FUND

BOBBY MOONEYHAM ADVISED FUND

JOHN P. AND LINDA C. SULLIVAN ADVISED FUND

JENNIFER MOONEYHAM ADVISED FUND

MARTHA SWINDLE ADVISED FUND

MOSSY OAK FOUNDATION DONOR ADVISED FUND

GEORGE M. AND BETTY B. TAYLOR ADVISED FUND

BOBBY J. AND MINERVA MOORE ADVISED FUND

NELLAH TAYLOR AND J. MARK MERRITT ADVISED FUND

MINGA FAMILY ADVISED FUND

SANFORD AND SUSAN THOMAS ADVISED FUND

PHIL AND SUSAN MORRIS ADVISED FUND

FULTON AND JULIE THOMPSON ADVISED FUND

OLD WAVERLY GOLF CLUB ADVISED FUND

DENNIS AND BETH TOSH ADVISED FUND

MARY AND SAM PACE ADVISED FUND

MRS. BILLIE H. WADLINGTON ADVISED FUND

PALMER FAMILY FUND

ELLEN WALKER ADVISED FUND

DAVID M. PALMER ADVISED FUND

DR. AND MRS. RICHARD WARRINER ADVISED FUND

RAYBURN PARKS ADVISED FUND

MR. AND MRS. HEYWOOD WASHBURN ADVISED FUND

MR. AND MRS. AUBREY B. PATTERSON ADVISED FUND

CHARLES WEATHERLY ADVISED FUND

PEOPLES BANK CHARITIES ADVISED FUND

WILLIAM GRAHAM AND MARTHA F. WELLS ADVISED FUND

GREG AND LISA PIRKLE ADVISED FUND

MARY AND CHARLES WERNER ADVISED FUND

JOYCE AND HAL POLK ADVISED FUND

LEWIS WHITFIELD ADVISED FUND

LAURIE POWELL DONOR ADVISED FUND

DR. AND MRS. FAYETTE WILLIAMS ADVISED FUND

OLD WAVERLY GOLF CLUB ADVISED

MR. AND MRS. H.L. (SANDY) WILLIAMS ADVISED FUND

EDDIE AND PRISCILLA PRATHER ADVISED FUND

MR. KENNETH WILLIAMS ADVISED FUND

MELVIN AND VALERIE RAY ADVISED FUND

ROSS AND DIANA WILLIAMS ADVISED FUND

R.W. REED COMPANY ADVISED FUND

MR. AND MRS. W.T. WILLIAMS, III ADVISED FUND

DAKIN REED ADVISED FUND JACK AND LISA REED ADVISED FUND MR. JACK REED, SR. ADVISED FUND LILLA REED ADVISED FUND SCOTT AND ANNETTE REED ADVISED FUND SARAH DILL REILY ADVISED FUND CATHY AND DON ROBERTSON ADVISED FUND JOE K. ROBBINS, JR. ADVISED FUND MR. AND MRS. BRITT ROGERS, III ADVISED FUND MR. AND MRS. JOHN JAMESON ROGERS ADVISED FUND MR. AND MRS. RONNY ROWLAND ADVISED FUND DOROTHY D. AND GEORGE H. RUFF FOUNDATION ADVISED FUND DAVID AND DONNA RUMBARGER (GRACE ADVISED FUND) JOE RUTHERFORD ADVISED FUND MRS. MARY P. SCOTT ADVISED FUND MR. ROBERT H. SCOTT ADVISED FUND ROBERT W. AND KATHLEEN SEYMOUR ADVISED FUND CROFTON AND CAMILLE SLOAN ADVISED FUND TERRE AND ORMA SMITH ADVISED FUND JANE SPAIN ADVISED FUND CINDY AND MARTY SPARKS ADVISED FUND ALICE STAFFORD ADVISED FUND STAGGERS ADVISED FUND KATY AND CLAYTON STANLEY ADVISED FUND THOMAS L. STENNIS ADVISED FUND MRS. ANNE J. STEPHENS ADVISED FUND

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Special Project Funds

S

pecial Project funds allow community groups to carry

out their charitable services while waiting for IRS designation as a 501(c)3. CREATE serves as fiscal agent for the special project allowing the group to operate as a non-profit under the auspices of the foundation.

PROJECT HOPE Founded in 1998, Project Hope is a group of local volunteers dedicated to community health improvement. Because heart disease and cancer are the leading causes of death in the United States and diabetes also takes a devastating toll on a person’s health, Project Hope specifically targets these diseases. For 2013, Project Hope awarded more than $35,000 in local grants. The following groups received grants: NMMC Diabetes Patient Assistance Fund ($8,000); NMMC Cancer Center Patient Assistance Fund ($7,500); Antone Tannehill Good Samaritan Free Clinic ($6,150); NMMC Heart Patient Assistance Fund ($5,000); Camp Breathe Ezzzze ($2,550); Weston Reed Foundation ($2,500); “Heart Smarts” at HealthWorks! ($3,334.50).

care.

(Top) Camp Breathe Ezzzze, a Project Hope grant recipient, educates children about managing asthma and the importance of regular exercise and healthy habits in preventing future cardiopulmonary disease. (Top left) Andrew Myrick is happy to receive help from Project Hope’s Heart Patient Assistance Fund. Medication, supplements, transportation and other supplies are provided to patients that qualify. (Top right) The Weston Reed Foundation received a Project Hope grant to assist with free CPR certification and training in the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and screening of student-athletes for heart disease.

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Special Project Funds AGAPE HEALTH SERVICES FREE MEDICAL CLINIC

EXCEL BY 5 LEE COUNTY

ALSA MISSISSIPPI FRIENDS GROUP

EXPECT

AMANDA PRICE MEMORIAL PARK FUND

FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES TOGETHER

AMORY COMMUNITY PLAYGROUND PROJECT

THE FELLOWSHIP

AMORY DANCE COMPANY

FELLOWSHIP CHRISTIAN RETREAT, INC.

ANTONE TANNEHILL GOOD SAMARITAN HEALTH SERVICES

FIREWORKS ON THE WATER

(FREE CLINIC)

FOOD ALLERGIC CHILDREN’S EDUCATION IN TUPELO (FACE IT)

APRILS ANGELS

FRIENDS OF MUSIC BEND NATURE TRAIL

ASSOCIATION FOR EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION

FRIENDS OF THE BATTLE OF OKOLONA

AUTISM RESOURCE AND TRAINING CENTER

FULTON COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS

BASKETBALL FACILITY COMMITTEE SPECIAL PROJECT

FULTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL SPECIAL PROJECT

BILL RASPBERRY’S BABY STEPS SPECIAL PROJECT

FULTON PARKS PROJECT

BRIDGES OUT OF POVERTY

FUTURE FOCUS CAMPAIGN (CDF)

CALEDONIA BAND

GRILLING ON THE RIVER

CANCER OUTREACH OF NORTH MISSISSIPPI

ROBBIE HALE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP SPECIAL PROJECT

CARE CENTER OF UNION COUNTY

HAVEN ACRES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

(CARE) COKE 10K KIDS GET FIT INITIATIVE

HEARTSAVERS OF MISSISSIPPI

CENTURY 21 BALANCE

HELPING HANDS HELPING HOMELESS

CHARACTER EDUCATION SPECIAL PROJECT

HELPING HANDS OF UNION COUNTY SPECIAL PROJECT

CITIZENS FOR TUPELO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

HHS MEMORIAL PLAZA SPECIAL PROJECT

CIVIC BALLET SPECIAL PROJECT

HONOR AIR OF MISSISSIPPI

CLASH OF THE ARTS SPECIAL PROJECT

HUGHES SHELTER BALANCE

COLUMBUS AFB STATIC DISPLAY

LATAEVEYON TUCKER HYDROCEPHALUS SPECIAL PROJECT

COLUMBUS LOWNDES AFFILIATE ADMINISTRATIVE FUND

ITAWAMBA COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER

COLUMBUS LOWNDES FOUNDATION SPECIAL PROJECT

ITAWAMBA COUNTY SHERIFF SPECIAL PROJECT

COLUMBUS POLICE ACADEMY ALUM

ITAWAMBA CROSSROADS RANCH

COMMITTEE FOR KING SPECIAL PROJECT

ITAWAMBA LEARNING CENTER

COPS AND KIDS (PAL)

JOHN PAUL FRERER BICYCLE SAFETY FUND

COTESWORTH CULTURAL AND HERITAGE CENTER

JOYNER CEMETERY SPECIAL PROJECT FUND

DANCING WITH THE KING DANCE EVENT

KRISTEN MINGA FOUNDATION FOR TEEN CHALLENGE

DESTINATION GRADUATION!

LEADERSHIP UNION COUNTY

DISTRICT 6 LEADERSHIP CAMP SPECIAL PROJECT

LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS FOREIGN LANGUAGE CLUB SPECIAL PROJECT

DREAMS OF WINGS

LOWNDES YOUNG LEADERS

EASOM OUTREACH FOOD PROGRAM

MAIN STREET COLUMBUS SPECIAL PROJECT

EASOM OUTREACH FOUNDATION SPECIAL PROJECT FUND

MAYOR’S YOUTH COUNCIL (CITY OF TUPELO)

EASOM SPECIAL PROJECT FUND

MCLEAN BIOGRAPHY SPECIAL PROJECT

ED GOODMAN MEMORIAL SPECIAL PROJECT

THE MESSIAH

EDUCATION POLICY FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM

MILL VILLAGE HISTORIC REVITALIZATION AND RENOVATION

ELVIS PRESLEY FOUNDATION SPECIAL PROJECT

MISSION MOTHERHOOD SPECIAL PROJECT

ELVIS PRESLEY YOUTH FUND

MISSISSIPPI ACTION FOR PROGRESS – MANTACHIE HEAD START

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MISSISSIPPI ANGELS PAGEANT SPECIAL PROJECT

TALLAHATCHIE ARTS COUNCIL

MISSISSIPPI FILM ALLIANCE SPECIAL PROJECT

THS ACTIVITY AND COMMUNITY FIELD FUND

MISSISSIPPI HILLS DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION SPECIAL PROJECT

THS BOYS SOCCER BOOSTER CLUB

MISSISSIPPI ARTS SPECIAL PROJECT FUND

THS CROSS COUNTRY TRAIL SPECIAL PROJECT

MOMMIE ME TIME NETWORK

THS FOR HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

MOOREVILLE SPORTSPLEX SPECIAL PROJECT FUND

TPD NORTH MS TRAINING ACADEMY

MS AVIATION MUSEUM AND LEARNING CENTER

TPSD PARENT COUNCIL SPECIAL PROJECT

NEWMS FAIRY GODMOTHER PROJECT

TPSD WELLNESS PROGRAM

NEWMS SPECIAL PROJECT

TUPELO FILM ALLIANCE SPECIAL PROJECT

NEWMS SUCCESS SKILLS SEMINAR

TUPELO FILM FESTIVAL

NEWSPAPERS & EDUCATION SPECIAL PROJECT

TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION SPECIAL PROJECT

NORTHEAST MS BIRTHING PROJECT

TUPELO POLICE DEPARTMENT RESERVE DIV 1 FUND

NORTHEAST MS DISASTER RELIEF FUND

TUPELO POLICE DEPARTMENT RESOURCE OFFICER/DARE FUND

NORTHEAST MS DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY

TUPELO POLICE DEPARTMENT TRAFFIC SAFETY FUND

OKOLONA DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION CHARITIES

TUPELO VISION - CENTER OF LIFELONG LEARNING

ORPHEUS TOUR FUND

TUPELO VISION - A JOB FOR EVERY TUPELOAN

OXFORD HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE ARTS GUILD

TUPELO VISION - MS HEALTHIEST CITY

OXFORD PATHWAYS SPECIAL PROJECT

TUPELO VISION - NEIGHBORHOOD TASK FORCE

OXFORD SKATE PARK SPECIAL PROJECT

TURNING POINT CHILDREN AND FAMILY SPECIAL PROJECT

PEDIATRIC SURGERY BOOK PROJECT

VETERANS’ PARK MEMORIAL JET PROJECT

THE PEOPLES BANK CHARITIES’ SPECIAL PROJECT FUND

VIETNAM REPLICA WALL

POLICE ATHLETIC LEAGUE SPECIAL PROJECT

VISION OF MEN

PONTOTOC COUNTY ANIMAL RESCUE AND SHELTER

A WAY OUT SPECIAL PROJECT (FULTON)

POTTER’S WHEEL – FOLK TALES FROM ‘BIGBEE VALLEY

WE CARE FOR KIDS SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE

PRESERVING ITAWAMBA HERITAGE/GAITHER HOUSE

WESTON REED FOUNDATION SPECIAL PROJECT

PROGRESS FOR MOOREVILLE

WINDOWS INITIATIVE SPECIAL PROJECT

PROJECT HOPE

WINGS OVER COLUMBUS

RED HILL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION

WORLD CHANGERS EXCELLENCE IN CITY GOVERNMENT

REGIONAL REHAB CAPITAL CAMPAIGN SPECIAL PROJECT

YOCONA INTERNATIONAL FOLK FESTIVAL SPECIAL PROJECT

RESIDENT LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE/TEAM TUPELO SALUTE LOWNDES COUNTY’S FINEST SALTILLO WOMEN’S CLUB SPECIAL PROJECT SHARING AT CHRISTMAS SPECIAL PROJECT FUND THE SANCTUARY HOSPICE HOUSE FUND SHANNON MIDDLE SCHOOL TECHNOLOGY AND RESOURCE PROJECT SMILE INITIATIVE SPECIAL PROJECT FUND SMITHVILLE MS RECOVERY FUND SNUGGLE BUDDY SPECIAL PROJECT STOP THE HURT PROJECT SYMPHONY SOCIETY OF ITAWAMBA SPECIAL PROJECT FUND

www.createfoundation.com 15

McLean Legacy Society

T

he McLean Legacy Society

If you are interested in learning how you can connect with the future through the McLean Legacy Society, please contact the CREATE Foundation at (662) 844-8989 or email Mike Clayborne at mike@createfoundation.com.

helps donors connect with the

future. Members may plan to leave a gift to their community through a bequest, trust, life insurance policy, or retirement plan. The McLean Legacy Society also provides a way for CREATE to thank donors and ensure that their gifts will be recognized during their lifetime. Named for CREATE’s founders George and Keirsey McLean, the Legacy Society honors those who desire to be remembered through their acts of generosity.

MEMBERS Anonymous (4) John & Frances Burt Tom & Carol Byrne Dr. & Mrs. Douglas E. Clark, Jr. Mike & Julie Clayborne LTC & Mrs. Jack Dalton Jan Elizabeth Eastman Clinton H. Graves, Jr. Barbara & Chester McKee J. Mark Merritt Ann B. Mitchell Mr. & Mrs. Jack Reed, Sr. Mr. & Mrs. David P. Rumbarger, Jr. Anne J. Stephens Sara A. Stephens Nellah F. Taylor Heywood Washburn Charles E. Weatherly Ellen R. Weatherly Martha F. Wells Sandy & Rosemary Williams

16 www.createfoundation.com

Legacy Society Members (L to R) Anne J. Stephens New Albany Dr. & Mrs. Douglas E. Clark, Jr. Tupelo

connect.

Tom & Carol Byrne Houston

Graham & Martha Wells Starkville

ORGANIZATION ENDOWMENTS

Organization Endowments

O

rganization endowments support a specific non-profit

organization and may be established by the organization or by a donor. An endowment fund allows an organization to use a portion of the investment proceeds from the fund while keeping the principle intact.

TUPELO JUNIOR AUXILIARY The Tupelo Junior Auxiliary believes that every child in the community is important.

Through a variety of programs, members share time, love, and the resources needed to help each child be his or her best. The

The Junior Auxiliary School Aid program provides school supplies, emergency medical and dental care, and eyeglasses to needy children in Tupelo and Lee County. Children are referred to the School Aid Committee by teachers, school nurses, or school counselors.

Junior Auxiliary supports community development through the following programs: School Aid; Clothes Closet; Scholarships; CPR/AED Courses; Drama Queens traveling theatre; Integrity Time character education program; W.A.V.E. summer program for rising 7th grade boys; Crown Club leadership program for girls; and Shine summer camp for girls.

With a permanent endowment fund at CREATE, the Junior Auxiliary can continue its business of offering character and leadership development programs for children both today and in the years to come.

give.

Junior Auxiliary’s summer camp SHINE (Strong, Healthy, Independent, Non-judgmental, & Empowered) promotes positive self-esteem through devotions, drama, art, physical exercise, group discussions, and mostly fun! The camp is designed for girls entering 7th grade.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA ENDOWMENT FUND BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB ENDOWMENT FUND BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF NEW ALBANY ENDOWMENT FUND BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OXFORD FACILITY ENDOWMENT FUND FORTNIGHTLY MUSICALE ENDOWMENT FUND GARDNER-SIMMONS HOME FOR GIRLS AGENCY ENDOWMENT GARDNER-SIMMONS BUILDING ENDOWMENT FUND GOOD SAMARITAN FREE CLINIC ENDOWMENT FUND GUMTREE MUSEUM OF ART ENDOWMENT FUND BROTHER MIKE MARECLE ENDOWMENT FUND (HOPE FAMILY MINISTRIES) JUNIOR AUXILIARY OF TUPELO ENDOWMENT FUND LINK CENTRE LOUISIANA-MISSISSIPPI-TENNESSEE KIWANIS FOUNDATION FUND NEW BEGINNINGS ENDOWMENT FUND NEWMS ENDOWMENT FUND OXFORD-LAFAYETTE HUMANE SOCIETY ENDOWMENT FUND PROJECT HOPE ENDOWMENT FUND REGIONAL REHABILITATION ENDOWMENT FUND SANCTUARY HOSPICE HOUSE ENDOWMENT FUND STARKVILLE KIWANIS CLUB ENDOWMENT FUND TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL MINISTRIES TUPELO COMMUNITY THEATRE ENDOWMENT FUND TUPELO/LEE COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY ENDOWMENT FUND TUPELO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA ENDOWMENT FUND UNION COUNTY HERITAGE MUSEUM AGENCY ENDOWMENT FUND UNITED WAY ENDOWMENT FUND UNITED WAY OF OXFORD-LAFAYETTE COUNTY WILDROSE DIABETIC ALERT DOG ENDOWMENT FUND YOKNAPATAWPHA ARTS COUNCIL AGENCY ENDOWMENT FUND

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Scholarship Funds Scholarship funds provide a way to honor and memorialize loved ones while giving deserving high school students the opportunity to further their education. Funds may be designated for a particular field of study, a specific institution, or a specific county, school, or area. CREATE has more than 60 scholarship funds.

If you are interested in establishing a scholarship fund or would like to make a donation to a fund, please contact the CREATE Foundation at 662.844.8989.

Jeffrey Hines Hopper Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund Jeff was born in Jackson, TN, the son of Jim and Judy Hopper. He lived in Milan, TN; Corinth, MS; Raleigh, NC; Portsmouth, VA and Carmel, IN. Jeff was a humble and well-mannered person with God-given talent. He quickly became a favorite of teachers, coaches, classmates and teammates wherever he went. His physical abilities and hard work enabled him to become a standout football and baseball player at every level from pee wee leagues through high school, and he was often recognized on all-star teams as most valuable player.

Jeff was fortunate to attend Milan High School with friends he had made during elementary school when he had previously lived in Milan. There was a close bonding with these young people that made 18 www.createfoundation.com

Jeffrey Hines Hopper October 23, 1966-1993 (continued) Jeffrey Hines Hopper Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund for a wonderful experience culminating in his being elected Mr. Milan High School by his peers. Some of his team and individual accomplishments follow: 1984 achievements in football: 12-1 record, undefeated during regular season, District 13 Champions AA, Region 7 Champions, West Tennessee Champions, All District 13 AA Defensive Lineman, and All West TN State Defensive Tackle. 1983 achievements in football: 9-3 record, District 13 AA Champions, Region 7 Champions, and All District 13 AA Offensive lineman.

1981 and 1982 achievements: Football Letterman, Baseball Letterman 3 years, led team in home runs as a junior, numerous Little League, Babe Ruth League, and American Legion Baseball awards.

Established by loving parents to honor the memory of their son, this scholarship is awarded annually to a senior who lives in Gibson County, Tennessee, and attends Milan High School in Milan, Tennessee. The Hoppers are residents of Tiplersville, Mississippi.

SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS AMORY ROTARY FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP FUND AMORY ROTARY LEE MCCOWN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND AMORY ROTARY HOLACE MORRIS SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT NELLIE MORGAN BALLARD SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT COACH JIMBO BYARS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND PEBBLES EAST AULDS SCHOLARSHIP FUND DENNIS BAILEY & MAXINE MONTS CAMERON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND JULIA BLAKEY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND (LINK CULINARY ARTS) DR. AND MRS. WALTER BOURLAND SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT MARSHUAN BRAXTON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND COACH JOE BRIGANCE SCHOLARSHIP FUND LARRY BROWN CREATIVE ARTS SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT TIMMY BRYANT MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND (TARGET) MARGARET BYRAM SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND BYRNE-FIELD SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND ERNEST CADDEN SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT CLAUDIA RUTH CASTENIR SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND M. GLEN AND LORA H. DAVIDSON SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND RUSSELL DORMAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND EVA ANN BEASLEY DORRIS SCHOLARSHIP FUND DOUGHERTY SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND PATRICIA “ROBIN” DOWS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONALS SCHOLARSHIP DARREN FENTON NAYC SCHOLARSHIP FUND ALLIENE GIBENS SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT KIM GREEN SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT ROBBY HALE “MAKE A DIFFERENCE” MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT TODD HARDIN MEMORIAL LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP CAROLINE BRYAN HARRELL SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND MCLAUGHLIN HARRISON FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT THE MARY KIRKPATRICK HASKELL SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND JEFFREY HINES HOPPER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND

JUNIOR AUXILIARY OF WEST POINT/MATT POSEY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND JORDAN LINDSEY CHRISTIAN CHARACTER SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT TONY LAUNIUS SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP FUND SAMUEL N. LOGGAINS NURSING SCHOLARSHIP FRANCES MALLORY SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND MCCARTY COMPANY SCHOLARSHIP FUND J.C. MCDANIEL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND EMILY MCDONALD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND MISSISSIPPI FEDERATION OF MUSIC CLUBS SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND MISSISSIPPI PROFESSIONAL EDUCATOR SCHOLARSHIP MISSISSIPPI THEATRE ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND KAYLA SUE MIZE SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND ELISE MOBLEY SCHOLARSHIP FUND (PACE) BOB AND MARILYN MONROE SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND TAYLOR MOORE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND J. T. NEELY SCHOLARSHIP FUND CHARLIE NELMS SCHOLARSHIP FOR ENGLISH MAJORS PATTERSON MEMORIAL STRINGS SCHOLARSHIP FUND RYAN PETTIT MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND MARIE PICKENS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND AMANDA PRICE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT MR. AND MRS. B.L. RIEVES SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND KAROL JEAN VOGE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND WINIFRED AND MAYFIELD RILEY TRAVEL SCHOLARSHIP MR. AND MRS. TOM ROBINSON SCHOLARSHIP FUND GEORGE H. SCHULTZ SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND SHOCKWAVE SCHOLARSHIP ASSISTANCE FUND DAVID SKINNER SCHOLARSHIP FUND TYLER SLOAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT STUBBS SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND TEACHER OF DISTINCTION AWARD FROM TPSD ADMINISTRATION JOHN N. TODD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND TUPELO LADIES CIVITAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND TUPELO LUNCHEON CIVITAN SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND

honor.

ALBERT HORN AND FAHOMA CRUMBY HORN ENDOWMENT EMILY WRIGHT HORNE MEMORIAL FUND

KELLEY ELIZABETH HUMPHREYS NURSING SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND SHEILA HUTCHESON AND JAKE MAY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND M & F BANK - JIM AND NANCY INGRAM SCHOLARSHIP FUND ROWLAND JOYNER LEARNING SKILLS ENDOWMENT JUNIOR AUXILIARY OF TUPELO SCHOLARSHIP FUND

SIMPSON VICKERY SCHOLARSHIP FUND

KAROL JEAN VOGE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND PRESLY WALLACE, JR SOCCER SCHOLARSHIP CLAY WAYCASTER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND ELGAR AND LUENE WAYCASTER MINISTERIAL SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT OWEN B. WHITEHURST SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND WHITESIDE SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND VALERIA MORGAN WHITFIELD SCHOLARSHIP FUND

www.createfoundation.com 19

Toyota Wellspring Education Fund

T

he commitment of Toyota to establish a $50 million endow-

ment over ten years at the CREATE Foundation is one of the most extraordinary gifts to support public education in the history of our state.

To date, $20 million has been received. For the first three years, CREATE, through the recommendation of the Toyota Advisory Committee, used the grant funds to offer high-caliber professional development opportunities to school leaders and educators.

They also hired Phi Delta Kappa International to conduct curriculum audits in all eight districts. As a result of the audits, a curriculum tool kit that aligns with state testing was developed for teachers. From the beginning, the committee collaborated with the eight school superintendents to determine the best use of the funds.

Together they began to lay the foundation for the Wellspring Center for Professional Futures, a high-school level advanced career center. Until funds can be raised for the construction of the center, the committee has chosen to focus on several important initiatives that will make an immediate impact on students in Lee, Pontotoc, and Union Counties.

20 www.createfoundation.com

(Above) “We want you to grow up to be everything you want to be,” Toyota Vice President Doug Formby told the attentive class. Formby said an educated labor pool will give Toyota a competitive advantage, but more importantly, investing in the people of north Mississippi will create a bigger economic engine overall. The Tupelo Public School District is using part of its grant money to add a classroom to the district’s Early Childhood Education Center. This addition allows 22 pre-school students to be removed from the waiting list and placed into a classroom.

According to TPSD Superintendent Gearl Loden, “Every dollar we invest in early childhood education typically yields a return of eight to 10 dollars.”

Pontotoc City Schools is enhancing education through its Toyota Wellspring Education Fund grant money. The district used its grant to purchase iPads and smart board response devices for all its elementary and high school classes.

Schools Receive $1million in Grant Money

Toyota Wellspring Education Fund Advisory Committee

The eight school districts in Lee, Pontotoc and Union Counties are upgrading with $1 million in grant money from the Toyota Wellspring Education Fund. The first grants will be used to add computers and other technology to some classrooms and to expand access to pre-kindergarten and tutoring programs in other districts. The grants benefit 26,000 public school students in the three counties that banded together to create the Blue Springs site where Toyota chose to locate its plant. “We want to do what we can to enhance the opportunities,� said Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi Vice President Doug Formby.

Reggie Collums Pontotoc, Mississippi David Copenhaver Tupelo, Mississippi Doug Formby/ Sean Suggs Vice President Administration Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi, Inc. Blue Springs, Mississippi Mike Staten BNA Bank New Albany, Mississippi Ex-Officio Members Greg Pirkle Partner, Phelps Dunbar, LLP Tupelo, Mississippi Jean Massey Associate State Superintendent of Education Jackson, Mississippi Committee Advisors

(Above right) The New Albany City School District is preparing students for the future with its one-to-one computer initiative for third through fifth grade students. The program is being funded by a grant from the Toyota Wellspring Education Fund. Every student in grades three through five will receive a personal laptop computer for use during the school year.

Dr. Larry Anderson Founder/Director National Center for Technology Planning Tupelo, Mississippi Mike Clayborne President, CREATE Foundation Tupelo, Mississippi

educate.

Dr. Chuck Garrett Senior Consultant Wellspring Center for Professional Futures New Albany, Mississippi

www.createfoundation.com 21

Dual Enrollment Courses High School students from Lee, Pontotoc, and Union Counties will get to participate in an App Development class beginning in January 2014. Students will learn how to create, market and sell smart phone applications.

Mississippi State University announced the new partnership with the CREATE/Toyota Wellspring Education Fund.

“These students will benefit from a learning opportunity not usually available to high school students anywhere,” said MSU President Mark Keenum. Students from the 14 public high schools will be able to take a dual enrollment web app entrepreneurship class from MSU. The class will enroll 25 students to be chosen by lottery. The 14-week class will meet online for one hour two days a week during the 2014 spring semester. Students will also attend class for two hours each Saturday at Toyota’s Blue Springs plant. They will earn three hours of credit from MSU and one high school credit.

“They will be able to create websites and mobile web applications and turn them into a business,” said Rodney Pearson, a professor of business information systems at MSU and one of six MSU instructors who will teach the course. This effort is connected to plans to build the Wellspring Center for Professional Futures, which would offer advanced professional courses to students in the three counties.

CREATE President Mike Clayborne and MSU President Mark Keenum discuss the partnership between CREATE’s Toyota Wellspring Education Fund and Mississippi State University to create an app development and marketing course for students in Lee, Pontotoc, and Union Counties.

An additonal dual enrollment course in health careers is also being developed. Northeast Community College is collaborating with CREATE to offer students another exciting opportunity to learn outside of the regular classroom while gaining valuable career guidance and college credit hours.

22 16 www.createfoundation.com www.createfoundation.com

Dive into Summer Camps The Toyota Wellspring Education Fund provided scholarships for 22 students from Lee, Pontotoc, and Union Counties to attend various academic summer camps at the University of Mississippi and Mississippi State University.

“It is really a lot of hard work, but every single thing we have done has been so rewarding,” Lee County residents attending MSU’s Scholars on Stage camp include Barrett Gillis, (L-R) Noah Cox, Philip Johnson, Hannah Brown, Shaneka Miller, Mereidth McLaurin and Josh Martin.

l m na tea sio e es tir of n pr r e e ou av r y t-h fo us t m en e ev Th ing n ar

le

21st Annual

Model Schools Conference doing More With less: Common Core, Next Generation Assessments, Teacher Evaluations

June 30 – July 3, 2013 | Washington, D.C. › 25+ Model Schools sharing innovative practices for Common Core Success

› Effective and efficient approaches to meeting increased expectations in times of declining resources

› Explicit modeling of instructional practices for student achievement

› Common Core “deep dive” sessions focusing on literacy, mathematics, technology, and career readiness

said Noah Cox, a rising senior at Tupelo High School, who attended Summer Scholars on Stage camp at Mississippi State University.

Model Schools Conference The Toyota Committee covered travel and registration costs for teams from each of the school districts in Lee, Pontotoc, and Union counties to attend the conference in Washington D. C. this past summer.

The conference high-lights cuttingedge schools that are ahead of the curve in preparing for the Common Core State Standards, Next Generation Assessments, and teacher evaluations based on student performance.

“The best conference ever.

We are rewarding our Teacher of the Year winners with a trip to this conference.”

Ken Basil, Union County Superintendent of Education

Register today! This event sells out quickly. See Registration Form or visit

www.modelschoolsconference.com

www.createfoundation.com www.createfoundation.com 23 17

Marchbanks Endowment Fund

J

ohn and Frances Marchbanks believed in giving back to their

community. John, a native of Shannon Mississippi, maintained a deep love for the area where he grew up, even though he had not lived there for more than 60 years. He and his wife Frances desired to help others overcome their problems, misfortunes and handicaps, and to assist them in helping themselves to achieve better lives and become productive citizens.

In 2005, Mr. and Mrs. Marchbanks

(Top) Healthworks is

left a gift of $8.7 million to benefit

an interactive children’s

the region.

Grants In 2013, grants were given to three

health education center that encourages children to make healthy lifestyle choices. A

help.

$25,000 Marchbanks

Shannon High School graduating

grant given to the

seniors in the form of a scholarship.

Healthcare Foundation

Other grants were given to support the following programs and organizations: Lee County Tuition Guarantee, Community Development Foundation, the United Way Back-to-School Resource Fair, Excel by 5 Lee County, Healthcare Foundation of North Mississippi, Tree of Life Clinic, and the Commission on the Future of Northeast Mississippi.

24 www.createfoundation.com

of North Mississippi

will help support the

center’s operating costs.

John Marchbanks

Frances Marchbanks

Photo Courtesy of Mabus Agency

(Top) The Lee County Tuition Guarantee Program is supported by a $150,000 Marchbanks grant. The program provides two years of tuition-free college at Itawamba Community College for high school students in Lee County.

(Left, L-R) Dr. Melvin Ray, representing the CREATE grants committee, presents $15,000 in scholarships to Shannon High School Seniors Blake Ethridge, Derius Conway, and Tamera Jade.

www.createfoundation.com 25

McLean Awards

T

he McLean Award for Philanthropy was established to

honor those individuals, families, and organizations that exemplify CRE-

ATE Founders George and Keirsey McLean’s spirit in charitable giving. It recognizes the extraordinary leadership of people and organizations working to improve the quality of life in their communities and in our region. This year’s awards were presented to an outstanding couple from Tupelo and a community bank from New Albany.

Babs and Mickey Holliman Mickey Holliman, co-founder of Lane Furniture Industries, along with his wife Babs, were two of this year’s McLean Award for Philanthropy recipients.

Mickey was born in Shuqualak, and co-founded Action Industries in 1970.

The company later became Lane and grew into one of the largest motion furniture companies in the world.

It was later acquired by Furniture Brands International, and Holliman became CEO of the company. He retired from Furniture Brands in 2008 and is currently Managing Partner of Five Star, LLC. “I’m just a country boy from a small town in Mississippi,” he said after the awards ceremony.

“We’re humbled by this...the communities have been so good to us as we built factories in Pontotoc, Saltillo, Belden, and Verona. It’s a heartfelt feeling we have in giving back.”

“This is very humbling; there are so many other people that should be up here,” said Babs Holliman.

The Hollimans support a wide variety of organizations in Tupelo and Northeast Mississippi with their time and resources.

26 www.createfoundation.com

BNA Bank The New Albany based BNA Bank also received the McLean Award for Philanthropy this year. The bank was founded in 1896 and has grown into a $420 million financial institution with three offices in its hometown, another in Myrtle and one in Tupelo. “We’re just honored by this award,” said President and CEO James “Bo” Collins. “We have a great board, great employees, all of whom believe

in giving back to the communities we serve.” Bank employees, from the upper management level on down, volunteer for countless events and serve on various boards. BNA sponsors scores of events as well. Vance Witt, the bank’s chairman, said the bank’s 100 employees were much like a family, all willing to help each other and their fellow citizens.

(Far left) Babs and Mickey Holliman of Tupelo receive the 2013 McLean Award for Philanthropy.

(Left) BNA Bank of New Albany also receives the 2013 McLean Award for Philanthropy. (L to R) James R. Collins, President and CEO; Amanda Kent, VP Marketing; Bob Spencer, SVP and Compliance Officer; Mike Staten, SVP Commercial Loans; Jonathan McCoy, VP Loans; Joe Parks, Board Member; Vance Witt, Chairman of the Board.

(Left below) Babs and Mickey Holliman and family.

(Left) BNA Bank Chairman Vance Witt.

lead.

www.createfoundation.com 27

Northeast Mississippi Youth Foundation

C

REATE founder George McLean believed that young

people possess amazing leadership potential. Developing that potential has been a basic goal of the Foundation. Established in 2001, the Northeast Mississippi Youth Foundation is helping CREATE reach that goal.

NEMYF is a youth-led organization comprised of 53 eleventh and twelfth grade students from northeast Mississippi. Students learn about philanthropy and community involvement by building their own endowment fund and awarding grants to organizations in their counties.

2013 GRANTS Benton County Matthew 25 Food Pantry: $280 The pantry provides assistance to the needy. Benton County is the second poorest county in the state.

Many families in Benton County qualify to receive assistance.

Coats For Kids: At the March meeting students brought coats to donate for needy children and their families during the cold weather months.

Chickasaw County Chickasaw County Soccer Association: $225 The grant money is used to provide scholarships for under-privileged children to give them a chance to learn and play soccer.

28 www.createfoundation.com

(Top left) NEMYF 2013 Seniors wear their college and university shirts to our graduation party.

(Top right) NEMYF Chairman Caleb Warren gears up to tackle the repelling wall at the fall retreat held at Ole Miss Outdoors.

(Bottom left) Catch Kids Executive Director Valerie Long explains how her organization helps the community at the NEMYF press conference in April.

2013 GRANTS (continued) Lee County FBC Saltillo Food Pantry: $280 The pantry provides food year round for the needy in the Saltillo and Guntown area.

Catch Kids: $750 Catch Kids offers school and community-based clinics in Northeast Mississippi. Children under 18 can be seen for free by local healthcare professionals who volunteer their time and services.

Pontotoc County Banah Crisis Pregnancy Center: $750 The center offers a variety of free and confidential services for unwed mothers to be and other family members.

NEMYF BOARD ALCORN Kimball Beck Lucy Lawson

Stephen Ross John Willis Stevens

Taylor Smith, Asst. Treasurer Grant Thornton Emily Wood Karli Wood

Caleb Warren, Chair

Tippah County Tippah County Good Samaritan Center: $280 The center provides supplementary food and financial assistance to low-income families.

Union County Excel by 5: $285 Excel by 5 is a community certification program that focuses on a community’s young children. It emphasizes the important roles parents and early childhood educators play in the lives of children during their most formative years - birth to age 5.

serve.

BENTON Cheyenne Jones Lindsey Ormon

CHICKASAW Taylor Brand Sudaja Buchanan Brennan Byrne Cameron Byrne Nicole Carouthers Paige Griffin

CLAY Madison Childress Mary Campbell Gray Margaret Hay

ITAWAMBA Summer Bouchillon Laine Wilson LAFAYETTE Hunter Knight Wesley McGrew

LEE Shelby Bickes Vaughan Davis Kerston Jumper, Secretary Mary Clair Kelly, Asst. Historian Noel Morgan, Vice Chair Tatiana Pfeiffer Alivia Roberts

MONROE Raimi Byrne Taylor Hyland

OKTIBBEHA Brannon Godwin, Asst. Secretary

PONTOTOC Alex Buckner Morgan Chism Tyra Floyd Emily Holcomb Amber Claire Huddleston Robin Shumaker, Historian

TIPPAH Aleck Hobson Meg Lambert, Treasurer Darby Patzius Zoe Windham

TISHOMINGO Jacob Benson Cecilia Dean Logan Locke Annsley McRae Quentin Rouse

UNION Callie Baggett Carol Coker Julianna Garner

www.createfoundation.com 29

Endowment Funds

BOOTH FAMILY ENDOWMENT FUND BRYAN YOUTH CENTER ENDOWMENT FUND Virginia H. Chrestman Memorial FUND FOR THE CITY OF OXFORD COCA-COLA LEGACY FOUNDATION BILLY & CATHERINE CREWS & SONJA JENKINS EDUCATIONAL ENDOWMENT FUND ARLAND A. AND GRACE DIRLAM ENDOWMENT FUND ELAINE DUNDY AND ROY TURNER ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS EVERGREEN DESIGNATED ENDOWMENT FUND FIRST PRESBYTERIAN-CORINTH SPECIAL MISSIONS ENDOWMENT FUND FOX FOUNDATION ENDOWMENT FUND JOHN PAUL FRERER MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT FUND THE BERNICE GAMBRELL ENDOWMENT FUND INGOMAR ENDOWMENT FOR EXCELLENCE INNOVATIONS IN EDUCATION ENDOWMENT FUND INTERFAITH COMPASSION MINISTRY ENDOWMENT FUND FRANCES ELKIN JOYNER ENDOWMENT FUND LQC LAMAR HOUSE ENDOWMENT FUND BYRON AND SHERRY LEHMAN LEADERSHIP DEV FUND ALICE LITTLE ENDOWMENT FUND Teachers of Distinction for grades six through 12 include (L to R) Timothy Matlock, Kim Wyatt, PAMELA MASSEY ENDOWMENT FUND Tracye Nance, Stephanie Cayson, Sherrie Dickerson, Amber Nichols-Buckley, Anna Garner, FOR THEATRE OXFORD Jennifer Towery, Braden Bishop and Yolanda Randle.

THE MATT FUND BETH MCAULEY MUSIC ENDOWMENT FUND SUSAN N. AND THOMAS J. MCDONALD ENDOWMENT Dudley Weathers Endowment Fund FOR THE TUPELO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA ED AND BECKY MEEK ENDOWMENT FUND the Estate of Dudley Weathers contributed SARA FRANCES MITCHELL EDUCATIONAL $465,000 to the CREATE Foundation to ENDOWMENT FUND establish the Dudley Weathers Endowment MIZE FAMILY ENDOWMENT FUND MONROE EDUCATION ENDOWMENT FUND Fund.

JOHNNY MORGAN FOUNDATION ENDOWMENT FUND OXFORD ENDOWMENT FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION Mr. Weathers was an entrepreneur; a founder BENJAMIN AND CORINNE PIERCE FOUNDATION of several businesses. He was a very ENDOWMENT FUND generous individual and a devoted advocate PIRKLE LIBRARY ENDOWMENT FUND THE DEAN PROVENCE ENDOWMENT FOR EXCELLENCE for education. He was involved in many IN EDUCATION philanthropic efforts including the Boy Scouts JAMES HUGH RAY MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT FUND and Gideons. He was a lifelong resident of REED FAMILY TRUST FUND ALICE LYNN ROEBUCK ENDOWMENT FOR UNITED WAY Lee County and a longtime member of MORGAN DALE ROEBUCK ENDOWMENT FOR THE Harrisburg Baptist Church. His generous gift SALVATION ARMY to CREATE will fulfill his desire to continue RUTH AND CLAUDE ROEBUCK ENDOWMENT FOR SALTILLO FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH providing support for various mission TCPS ACADEMIC CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE activities in spreading the gospel message.

ENDOWMENT FUND TOMMY TOSH MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT FUND For more information on establishing an TOYOTA EDUCATION ENHANCEMENT Dudley Weathers endowment fund, please contact the CREATE ENDOWMENT FUND July 12, 1925 - November 1, 2009 TUPELO PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT ENDOWMENT FUND Foundation at 662.844.8989.

This photograph was taken of Dudley Weathers in HARRY AND ELLEN WALKER ENDOWMENT FUND 1958 at age 33. It was the same year he founded DUDLEY WEATHERS ENDOWMENT FUND Weathers Auto Supply Company in Tupelo which he WHITFIELD LEADERSHIP FUND owned and operated for 40 years.

JIMMY WILLIAMS MEMORIAL EDUCATION ENDOWMENT FUND (CARE) HARRY LEE WILLIAMS, SR. ENDOWMENT FUND (CARE) KENNETH AND NANCY ANN WILLIAMS ENDOWMENT FUND

30 www.createfoundation.com

TEACHERS OF DISTINCTION The 15th annual Teacher of Distinction Awards luncheon was held at a joint meeting of the Tupelo Rotary and Kiwanis Clubs in September. This year, the Assoiation for Excellence in Education co-sponsored the event with the CREATE Foundation. AEE provided an additional $10,000 to allow the program to honor ten additional teachers. The awards are also funded by B & B Concrete, Inc.; BancorpSouth; Booth Family Endowment Fund; Pat and Jennifer Caldwell; Innovations in Education Endowment Fund; Mitchell, McNutt and Sams Law Firm; Marilyn and Bob Monroe Endowment Fund; Reed Family Trust Endowment Fund; Renasant Bank; Tupelo High School Alumni Association; Tupelo Kiwanis Club; Tupelo Rotary Teachers of Distinction for pre-K through fifth grade include (front row) Evanglina Joy Stanford,

Club; Tupelo Public Schools Administrative

Cathy Enis, Kashauna Pittman, Laurie Alford, Mary Foster, Traci Hazel, (back row)

Council; and Jimmy Williams Memorial Educa-

Kalicia Henderson, Katie Pannell, Amy Kingsley, Melissa Harris, Patricia Edwards, Andrea Cobb,

tion Endowment Fund. The Teacher of Distinc-

and Celeste Ellis.

tion Awards program was established to honor

give

and recognize outstanding teachers from the Tupelo Public School District.

www.createfoundation.com 31

FINANCIAL MILESTONES

Net Assets Contributions

2000

2010

2011

2012

2013

Percentage change from 2000

$28,308,904*

$53,723,287*

$56,489,923*

$65,286,923*

$76,271,833*

169%

17%

$2,234,555

$12,647,155

$9,659,149

$9,042,407

$10,106,629

352%

12%

$1,747,212

$7,667,602

$5,969,016

$5,349,702

$6,001,678

244%

12%

Grants Endowments - number Endowments - amount Donor Advised Funds

Percentage change from 2012

36

127

135

144

153

325%

6%

$3,770,948

$25,600,631

$28,958,846

$36,713,754

$47,324,926

1155%

29%

53

147

149

157

166

213%

6%

29

166

185

207

215

641%

4%

Special Projects

*Does not include $10 million Pierce and Mize Supporting Organizations.

Investment Performance

Center for Fiduciary Excellence Certification

LETTER FROM Buddy Montgomery Investment Committee Chair CREATE Foundation

The Center for Fiduciary Excellence (CEFEX) has certified the general investment account of the CREATE Foundation, Inc. CREATE Foundation is the first foundation in the world to successfully complete the independent CEFEX certification process.

The CEFEX standard of excellence for investment stewards is based on 22 fiduciary practices that seek to increase long-term investment performance by diversifying the portfolio, evaluating investment management fees, and selecting investment managers.

Dear Friends, In 2013, the market has continued the process of rebounding from the worst economic recession in seventy years.

For the year, the CREATE portfolio was up 16.25%. Our managers performed well as the portfolio outperformed the fund objective. Over $10.6 million was contributed to our pooled endowment fund and over $5.4 million was gained from investments.

Our investment committee meets quarterly with our investment advisors to review performance. We take our fiduciary responsibilities seriously as we work to maximize investment returns through a prudent investment process.

Sincerely, Buddy Montgomery

32 www.createfoundation.com

Charity Navigator Certification

National Standards Compliance

In 2013, CREATE Foundation earned its seventh 4-star rating for the ability to efficiently manage and grow its finances.

Only a small percentage of the charities rated have received seven 4-star evaluations, indicating that CREATE Foundation consistently executes its mission in a fiscally responsible way and outperforms most other charities in America.

“This exceptional designation from Charity Navigator differentiates CREATE Foundation from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust,” reported Ken Berger, President & CEO, Charity Navigator.

The CREATE Foundation has been confirmed in compliance with the Council on Foundations National Standards. The National Standards Seal signifies that CREATE Foundation has met rigorous National Standards and has demonstrated its commitment to financial security, transparency, and accountability.

“When people use CREATE Foundation to make a charitable bequest, establish a fund, or make a contribution, they do it knowing that we have met standards for donor services, investment management, grantmaking, and administration. The National Standards Seal is excellent validation of the work we do on behalf of our donors and our community,” says Mike Clayborne, president.

CONTRIBUTIONS 2000

$2,234,555

2007

$5,197,226

2008

$3,239,825 $5,277,037

2009 2010

2011

2012

2013

$0

$12,647,155* $9,659,149 $9,042,407 $10,106,629

$4,000,000

$8,000,000

$12,000,000

$16,000,000

*Total contributions for 2010 included two major projects: the Fulton Playgarden Park and the MSU Mize Pavilion.

NET ASSETS 2000

$28,308,904

2007

$50,680,684

2008

$40,005,185

2009

$44,144,381

2010

2011

2012

2013

$0

$25,000,000

$53,723,287 $56,489,923 $65,286,923 $76,271,833

$50,000,000

$75,000,000

$100,000,000

Net Assets do not include $10 million Pierce and Mize Supporting Organizations.

AUDIT The CREATE Foundation annually engages the services of an independent accounting firm to perform an audit of the Foundation’s financial statements. As part of the audit, the firm also reviews the internal controls and various policies and procedures to ensure the Foundation staff is adhering to the most current

accounting practices. The Foundation’s auditor, Nail McKinney Professional Association, has issued an unqualified opinion on the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013. Complete audited financials are available at www.createfoundation.com or may be obtained by calling the CREATE office at 662.844.8989. www.createfoundation.com 33

Join CREATE in a regional call to action. Let us give, lead, serve, educate, unite, elevate, care, connect, help, and honor others in our region. As we partner together, we can strengthen our region and change our world.

For more information on joining the call to action, visit www.createfoundation.com or contact the CREATE office.

MISSION STATEMENT CREATE Foundation is committed to improving the quality of life for the people of northeast Mississippi through:

• Building permanent community endowment assets

• Encouraging philanthropy and managing charitable funds contributed by individuals, families, organizations and corporations

• Strengthening the regional community development capacity.

• Taking a leadership role on key community issues and impacting the region through gifts and targeted grant-making 213 West Main Street P.O. Box 1053 . Tupelo, MS 38802 662.844.8989 Fax: 662.844.8149 www.createfoundation.com

CREATE Northeast Mississippi’s Community Foundation