WHEN TRANSFORMATION HAPPENS…
2023
SUMMARY OF GRANTS
Est. 2006
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
As we review our work each year, we ask, “How do we know whether our work has had success?” It’s an important question and it should be answered, but sometimes we struggle to get below the surface. We count the dollars spent and add up the people helped and conclude that we have done well. But we know that this is only scratching the surface when we think about our work in Christian philanthropy. Success of course requires definition. In our world, it might be defined by numbers served or lives improved in measurable ways such as increased safety or availability of life’s necessities such as food and housing and education. It might be defined by graduation rates (high school and college) or access to living wage jobs or medical care. Or in Christian philanthropy, it might be defined by professions of faith or gospel presentations or churches planted. These are all useful metrics, but does pursuing these lines of inquiry lead us away from another means of assessing our work that might be more important in our mission as disciples of Jesus Christ?
There is a familiar parable in Matthew 25 about a man going on a journey who entrusted his servants with various amounts of money to invest while he was away. When he returned, he judged his servants on their success in earning a return on the money he had left for them to steward. The ones who had invested well were rewarded as good and faithful servants. And of course, the one who had done nothing with the money entrusted was thrown out into the darkness. I don’t believe Jesus wanted us to read this parable narrowly. Yes, it is about the use and care of money for which we are accountable to God. But the parable is followed immediately by the series of verses on which we as a Foundation have based much of our work and mission. What have we done for the least of the brothers and sisters of Christ, and thus for Him? Stated simply, how have we loved our brothers and sisters?
When it comes to serving “the least of these,” money is a powerful tool. The temptation we have is to evaluate our work based on data collected, showing the numbers of people served and the effectiveness of the various programs we have supported in improving their lives. And this we should do. The pages of these summaries over the years have included some of that data and am happy to say that our ability and the ability of our partners to gather that data is improving. We want to know that the money we give is well spent and that it is allocated where the results demonstrate the most impact. But money is cold and hard and we are called to do more, so we must measure in different ways.
Which brings me to another parable in Luke 10 about a man beaten and robbed along the road between Jerusalem and Jericho.
Two religious leaders had passed him by, but a Samaritan man stopped to render aid. Money was required in that story too, but more importantly, time, compassion, and a willingness to put aside personal self-interest for the benefit of someone in need. Jesus asks, who was the neighbor to the beaten man? The answer was obvious. We might guess what was appreciated most by the beaten man. Certainly, the financial aid that allowed him to heal was critically important. But my guess is he appreciated as much or more the neighborly love showed him by the Samaritan. How can we measure that?
We are blessed to have financial resources with which we can assist our partners in their important work. We are held to account for the use of those resources and rightly so. Loving our neighbors involves using these financial resources to invest in them to provide the goods and services that they so desperately need. We can measure our neighborliness by simply knowing that our money has directly helped someone in need, and if it has, that can be enough. It is for this reason that we have always focused on direct service in our grantmaking. Knowing that someone, a person we can really see, has been helped, has been our reward.
But we have other resources too which include time and experience and we should use those also to love our neighbors. We have learned that without spending time, without building relationships with those we support, the giving of money alone, though obviously welcome, can be transactional “I give you money and you give me results.” On the other hand, the giving of money together with the time necessary to demonstrate care and compassion and to offer encouragement and understanding is relational and completes a picture which may be summarized in the word love. So how do we measure our love? After 17 years, we can only measure our success in loving our neighbors by looking at the relationships we have built during that time In what ways have we shown up and with what consistency. How have we helped our partners thrive and how have they been able to love those they serve?
More than anything, we want to build relationships with our partners. We want to be a part of their work, enjoying their successes and suffering with them in their failures. We want them to know we value them as people and we value their work as they love those they serve. So, more gratifying than any report showing money well-spent are the acknowledgments of love our partners have expressed. One recent note says it all. “Your team has been so compassionately engaged in our process with Tarrant County families…Outside of the financial support, your team’s recognition of these issues, concern for this population, and support is exceptionally encouraging to those of us who have been serving in the social service field for a long time. The questions, the RJF newsletters, the RJF process, demonstrates that true care. So, thank you.”
How do we measure success? One relationship like this at a time. One note like this at a time. We read them, we cherish them, we even display them. Our work is built on our connections to those we serve. Our faith affirms that we are all part of a mysterious interconnected body of people created by our God to join together for the mutual health and thriving of the whole. We count our success by the evidence that God’s people can build relationships of love and support and mutual benefit Let’s continue that effort and count each ever-stronger relationship as a measure of success that brings joy to this work.
Thornton Hardie, III President of The Rees-Jones Foundation
ABOUT THE REES-JONES FOUNDATION
Founded in 2006 by Jan and Trevor Rees-Jones, The Rees-Jones Foundation is a private foundation that works with nonprofit organizations in North Texas, Africa, and India.
The vision of The Rees-Jones Foundation is that the love of Christ is experienced in tangible ways by those who have disadvantages or who are suffering spiritually, physically, or emotionally.
The Foundation works to defend the welfare of children suffering from abuse or neglect, provide youth with opportunities for enrichment and character development, encourage healthy families and neighborhoods, improve the quality of life for children with disabilities, and promote the humane treatment of companion animals.
The Foundation has been guided in its work by Scripture, challenged by the words of our Lord whose lessons on stewardship urge us to use wisely the gifts He has given while also cautioning that to those who have been entrusted with much, much more will be asked (Luke 12:48). And among the many words of our Lord that challenge us, we have been particularly inspired by His love of children and concern for the poor and the vulnerable. We are reminded that whenever we welcome a child in His Name, we welcome Him, and whatever we do for the least of the hungry, the lost, the poor, and the sick we do for Him (see Matthew 18:5).
Thornton Hardie President
Cissy Moses Director of Finance and Treasurer
Terese Stevenson Vice President of Grants
Adrian Cook Director of Research and Evaluation
Lynn Gibson Senior Program Officer
Trey Hill Senior Program Officer
Thomas Kincaid Senior Program Officer FOUNDATION STAFF
Liz Curfman Program Officer
Stevenson Program Officer
Shellie Velasco Program Officer
Allyson Plumlee Research Associate
Sara Meyers Communications Specialist
Amy Brooks Grants Manager
Natalie Darwin Administrative Assistant
“From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much will be asked.”
Luke 12:48
ABOUT THE FOUNDERS
Jan and Trevor Rees-Jones established the The Rees-Jones Foundation in 2006 out of proceeds from the sale of their oil and gas business and a conviction that God had blessed them as custodians of His resources. For Jan and Trevor, the premise of The Foundation is straight forward: serve God by serving others, and in the process enable others to experience the love of Christ in very tangible ways.
Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, The Rees-Jones Foundation is a multi-generational, private foundation that serves nonprofit organizations in North Texas and around the world.
The Foundation is led by Jan and Trevor, both life-long residents of the Dallas area. They are active members of Highland Park Presbyterian Church, and are privileged to be included in many meaningful events around the community; however, they also enjoy family time at their ranch or a quiet night at home with their dogs.
“We have always known that our lives have been blessed by God beyond anything we deserved. As custodians of what He has provided, we are called to share our resources with those around us who lack the same resources,” say Jan and Trevor Rees-Jones. “In 2006, with a lot of thought and great joy, we were able to establish The Rees-Jones Foundation to be an instrument by which we could begin to fulfill this call. We do what we do in response to what He has done for us.”
Also involved with the Foundation are the Rees-Jones children, Trevor R. Rees-Jones and his wife Jenny, and David G. ReesJones and his wife Margaret. Both Jenny and Margaret served as program officers at the Foundation with portfolios that included animal welfare, global Christianity and youth experiences. Trevor R. and David G. are both members of the Board of Directors of the Foundation, Co-Presidents of Rees-Jones Holdings LLC, and active in all of the family’s business activities, including oil and gas through Chief Energy, real estate through Chief Partners, and mission-driven impact investing through Cubit Capital.
2023 GRANT MAKING PORTFOLIOS DOMESTIC
The Foundation accomplishes its mission of serving the least of these by partnering with nonprofit organizations in North Texas through relational philanthropy.
2023 GRANT MAKING PORTFOLIOS INTERNATIONAL
LIFETIME GRANT MAKING
2023 GRANT MAKING
*Total percent vary based on rounding. Amount paid dependent upon grant stipulations.
**Amounts awarded and paid listed in millions. Amount paid annually contingent upon grant stipulations. Actuals vary due to grant contingencies and rescissions
2023 GRANT MAKING
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
Grant Sizes
• Average: $337,301
• Median: $72,500
• Mode: $50,000
• Largest: $10,000,000
• Smallest: $1,5000
TRANSFORMATION HAPPENS… WE SEE PASSION.
TO PROMOTE THE ETHICAL AND HUMANE TREATMENT OF COMPANION ANIMALS
ANIMAL WELFARE
“In
His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.”
Job 12:10
The Foundation supports organizations that promote the ethical and humane treatment of companion animals, because companion animals should have secure, loving, forever homes; and communities should be safe for animals and residents alike.
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
1. Animal Maltreatment Prevention: Programming around law enforcement and animal welfare focused on intervening in animal maltreatment.
2. Animal Rescue, Adoption & Transfer: Programming around rescue and adoption to place companion animals in permanent homes.
3. Animal Welfare System: Programming around public and private systems that ensure animal and community well-being.
4. Animal Well-being: Programming around nutrition and shelter for animals, including support for animal owners.
5. Spay/Neuter Procedures: Programming around spay/neuter procedures to control animal population.
ANIMAL WELFARE GRANTS AWARDED
Don’t Forget To Feed Me Pet Food Bank $11,500
Funding towards the purchase of an industrial fan for their pet food distribution center.
Hearts & Bones Animal Rescue $160,000
Funding to support costs related to the purchase and use of two new vehicles to transport Dallas-area rescue dogs to the New York City metropolitan area.
Humane Society of North Texas $50,000
Funding to support the general operations and needs of the Cruelty Investigations Program.
Mazie’s Mission $60,000
Funding to support a feasibility study for future projects that will expand the veterinary clinic.
Operation Kindness
$2,500,000
Funding to support Shelter Initiatives and Community Initiatives that benefit companion animals.
Operation Kindness $1,500,000
Funding to support capital improvements, equipment and rent
for The Lifesaving Partnership Hub warehouse space to increase capacity.
Spay Neuter Network $381,000
Funding to support expansion needs at its Dallas Clinic and mobile animal surgical hospital.
Yellowstone Forever $330,000
Funding to support the Yellowstone Wolf Project.
HEARTS & BONES ANIMAL RESCUE
Dream (now known as Mofongo) first arrived at Dallas Animal Services last June with a gunshot wound to her chest and the bullet still in her body. Fortunately, vets were able to remove the bullet and get this pup the urgent medical care she needed, but staff knew she’d need a cozy place to recover before she was ready to find a forever family.
The team set her up with an amazing foster home where she could enjoy plenty of TLC while she recovered. She made the trip to NYC a few weeks later and was quickly adopted. Now her life is filled with an endless supply of cuddles, treats, and chew toys.
*Grants listed in green are Capital Grants
OPERATION KINDNESS
Operation Kindness Community Initiatives team went door to door in a senior living facility, right across the street from a community center in South Dallas. The team regularly partners with this community center to host vaccine and microchip events. As the Operation Kindness team handed out flyers and gave out free resources, one of them knocked on Mr. R’s door and spoke to him about a $5.00 event they were hosting the next day. He said he had no transportation and had not been able to take his seven-year-old dog to a vet since she was a puppy. The team handed him a new collar and leash along with an information flyer about the event. The next day, Mr. R came to the Operation Kindness event! Staff vaccinated and microchipped his sweet dog for less than $10. He was very thankful and was able to take home a couple of cans of dog food. After Mr. R left the event, the outreach coordinator at the community center came to speak to the crew and was almost in tears. The community center had known Mr. R for over eight years and said that he had never stepped foot outside his door. Operation Kindness was grateful to be a part of Mr. R’s story!
WHEN TRANSFORMATION HAPPENS… WE SEE PROTECTION.
TO SERVE CHILDREN AND YOUTH REFERRED TO THE SUBSTITUTE CARE SYSTEM
The Foundation seeks to serve children and youth who are referred to the substitute care system, because children and youth who have experienced maltreatment should have opportunity to heal from their trauma and find permanency in loving homes.
CHILD SUBSTITUTE CARE
“But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.”
Psalm 5:11
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
1. Adoption or Other Permanency: Programming around achieving permanency, including adoption or permanent kinship care, for children or youth who are permanently removed from their parents.
2. Advocacy Center Support: Programming around forensic and therapeutic programming for children or youth who are victims of abuse.
3. CASA Advocacy: Programming around Court Appointed Special Advocates for children or youth who are in substitute care.
4. Child Substitute Care System: Programming around implementing the child substitute care system.
5. Family Reunification & Safety: Programming around family safety and reunification for families involved with Child Protective Services.
6. Foster Youth Integrated Healthcare: Programming around integrated healthcare for children or youth who are in substitute care.
7. Foster Youth Support: Programming around education, social, and therapeutic services for children or youth who are in substitute care.
8. Substitute Care Placements: Programming around temporary placements for children or youth who are in substitute care.
CHRIST’S HAVEN FOR CHILDREN
Christ’s Haven is focused on providing a trauma-informed, family model of care for displaced children who have been temporarily separated from their families. They aim to provide a safe, loving environment through their residential program to allow children and youth to meet their physical, spiritual, emotional, and academic needs. With a focus on relational permanency, Christ’s Haven creates a community that allows children to have a major support system as they navigate time away from family. Nick, a 14-year-old boy living at Christ’s Haven showed an interest in working on cars.
After his house-parents enrolled him in auto classes and his mentor spent time showing him routine car maintenance, he gained a part-time job at a local auto supply store and started his own side business providing oil changes for clients. Nick believes he can achieve his goals because of the encouragement that surrounds him at Christ’s Haven.
CHILD
SUBSTITUTE CARE GRANTS AWARDED
ACH Child and Family Services
$1,500,000
Funding to support kinship care placements in Region 3.
Buckner Children and Family Services $185,000
Funding to support the Tarrant County foster care and adoption program.
Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County $250,000
Funding to support general operations to continue serving children in Collin County who have experienced abuse or neglect.
Children’s Advocacy Center for Kaufman County $70,000
Funding to support general operations for child victims of abuse to receive forensic interviews, therapy, and advocacy support.
Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas $350,000
Funding to support general operations so that services can continue for children who have experienced abuse or neglect in Denton, Wise and Jack Counties.
Children’s Medical Center Foundation $5,600,000
Multi-year funding to support general operations at The Rees-Jones Center for Foster Care Excellence at Children’s Health over two years.
Christ’s Haven for Children $50,000
Funding to support the residential program for children temporarily separated from their families.
Connections Homes $25,000
Funding to support program delivery to youth and mentor families in North Texas.
Dallas CASA $30,000
Funding to support participation of Dallas CASA program staff in Praesidium Accreditation training.
Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center $500,000
Funding to support general operations so that services can continue for children in Dallas County who have experienced abuse or neglect.
First3Years $80,000
Funding to support the Safe Babies Program in Dallas and Tarrant Counties.
Friends Investing in Foster Kids
$10,000
Funding to support general operations so the permanency court has provisions for children in foster care and funding for new website.
Johnson County Children’s Advocacy Center $120,000
Funding to support the installation and implementation of new technology systems.
CHILD SUBSTITUTE CARE GRANTS AWARDED
Lone Star CASA $25,000
Funding to support general operations to continue work with children in Rockwall and Kaufman Counties who have been placed in substitute care.
NewDay Services for Children & Families $100,000
Funding to support the FOCUS+ program which offers education and mentoring for parents.
Paluxy River Children’s Advocacy Center $135,000
Funding to support general operations to continue serving children in Hood, Erath, and Somervell counties who have experienced abuse or neglect.
Transition Resource Action Center (TRAC) $250,000
Funding to support general operations and initial start-up costs as TRAC is establishing its own nonprofit organization.
ACH CHILD AND FAMILY SERVICES
Kelly is a loving, single mom who serves as the full-time caretaker of her adult disabled daughter, who resides in Kelly’s home. Kelly is also a 60-year-old grandmother caring for her two small grandchildren. To say she felt overwhelmed is an understatement.
Fortunately, ACH Child and Family Services entered the picture. One of ACH’s 16 programs, Kinship Connections, has been providing assistance to Kelly for over a year, resulting in her being granted Permanent Managing Conservatorship of her grandchildren, though without ongoing benefits.
Recently, Kelly faced a sudden relocation due to a house fire in her neighbor’s duplex. With dire financial constraints, she couldn’t afford a deposit on a new place and was considering a homeless shelter. In a positive turn of events, Kelly’s Kinship Specialist intervened and negotiated a deal with the landlord. ACH contributed half of the deposit and Kelly agreed to make payments on the remaining portion through a structured plan. Excitedly, Kelly and her family moved into their new residence in February of last year as her Kinship Specialist applied for assistance from two community programs to cover the remaining deposit.
This journey began when Kelly, emerging from homelessness, initially took custody of her two grandchildren. ACH provided essential items such as cribs, mattresses, and bedding. Her Kinship Specialist went even farther by securing baby supplies from local foster closets, including a pack-n-play, bottles, shampoo, toys, and more. Kelly was also connected to local resources for furnishing her home, and ongoing assistance with SNAP, WIC, and TANF applications.
Her Kinship Specialist also ensures monthly deliveries of diapers and supplemental grocery assistance through a local food pantry. Kelly expresses gratitude, emphasizing that her ability to care for the girls is sustained by the invaluable support she receives.
Through its Continuum of Care, ACH Child and Family Services is dedicated to the prevention, intervention, and treatment of child abuse, neglect, and family separation. With over a century of experience, ACH brings needed resources and skills to children and families struggling with life’s challenges.
*Name and identifying details changed to protect identity
WHEN
TRANSFORMATION
HAPPENS… WE SEE POSSIBILITY.
TO SERVE CHILDREN AND YOUTH WITH SPECIALIZED PHILANTHROPIC PROGRAMMING
COMMUNITY BENEFIT
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Hebrews 10:24-25
The Foundation seeks to serve children and youth with specialized philanthropic programming, because North Texas children and youth should live in a community that actively supports philanthropy and civic participation.
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
1. Community Investments: Activities that support the acquisition, upgrade, or development of capital infrastructure for community benefit.
2. Christmas Giving: Programming around Christmas gifts for children or youth from disadvantaged backgrounds.
3. Cook Canyon Ranch Scholarships: Programming around Cook Canyon Ranch Scholarships for Eastland and Ranger High Schools.
4. Philanthropy, Charity & Volunteerism: Programming around philanthropy, charity and volunteerism.
5. Rees-Jones Youth Internship: Programming around the Rees-Jones Youth Internship Program.
CHRISTMAS GIVING
Since 2009, the Foundation has contributed toward the purchase of gifts for children residing in shelters across DFW each Christmas season. The hope is that each family is given the opportunity to experience joy and create memories throughout the holidays.
In 2023,
COMMUNITY BENEFIT GRANTS AWARDED
Arlington Life Shelter $1,500
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Behind Every Door Ministries $763.25
Funding to support the 2023 Rees-Jones Foundation Youth Internship.
Buckner Children and Family Services $15,263.61
Funding to support the 2023 Rees-Jones Foundation Youth Internship.
Communities Foundation of Texas $50,000
Funding to support the 2023 North Texas Giving Day.
Cornerstone Crossroads Academy $27,500
Funding to support the 2023 Rees-Jones Foundation Youth Internship.
The Dallas Foundation $400,000
Funding for the Rees-Jones fund for community projects.
Dallas Leadership Foundation $10,000
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Dallas Leadership Foundation $33,000
Funding to support the 2023 Rees-Jones Foundation Youth Internship.
Dallas Life $3,000
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Denton County Friends of the Family $2,200
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Eastland Independent School District $20,000
Funding for Cook Canyon Ranch Scholarship.
Family Gateway $5,500
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
For the Nations Refugee Outreach $33,000
Funding to support the 2023 Rees-Jones Foundation Youth Internship.
Genesis Women’s Shelter and Support $2,500
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Interfaith Family Services $3,300
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Jonathan’s Place $3,300
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Mosaic Family Services $3,300
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Presbyterian Night Shelter of Tarrant County $4,500
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
COMMUNITY BENEFIT GRANTS AWARDED
Rainbow Days $5,500
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Ranger Independent School District $20,000
Funding for Cook Canyon Ranch Scholarship.
SafeHaven of Tarrant County $3,000
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
The Salvation Army $10,000,000
Funding to support the ‘One Army, Many Fronts’ capital campaign, and specifically for the Dallas Social Services Center.
Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County $2,500
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Youth Believing in Change $33,000
Funding to support the 2023 Rees-Jones Foundation Youth Internship.
*Grants listed in green are Capital Grants
THE REES-JONES YOUTH INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
The Rees-Jones Youth Internship Program started in 2018 with the hope of directly pouring into the next generation. The Foundation was inspired to start the internship program after several faithbased, nonprofit agencies voiced that they required more funding and/or staff to provide their interns with enriching opportunities outside of the traditional intern role. These organizations each had longstanding programs that served youth in their communities, but each desired a program that helped youth bridge the gap between adolescence and adulthood.
The Foundation felt that by partnering with these agencies, it could fill that gap by providing leadership opportunities, life and workplace competency soft skills, and new experiences for the interns. The collaboration was coupled with a grant to each organization, which enabled the agency to pay its interns and daily build mentoring relationships with each participant that would teach them about God, about the importance of strong character, and of excellence in the workplace.
In 2023, the Foundation was able to welcome the interns for four inperson gatherings over the summer with guest speakers covering a variety of topics, including: financial literacy, higher education, etiquette, investing, career tracks and more. Highlights from the program included the opportunity for Foundation staff to meet with each organization’s interns over lunch during the summer to provide mock interviews, career and education advice, and discuss networking. Interns had the opportunity to tour the George W. Bush Presidential Center, and serve with multiple organizations across the city who welcomed extra hands to invest in their communities.
At the closing dinner held at the Park City Club, former intern Zainab Abdalla spoke on all she has been able to accomplish through college, her career, and now in her pursuit of her Master’s degree. She inspired the interns to continue to learn and grow in this season as they work toward their dreams.
THE REES-JONES FOUNDATION YOUTH INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
PARTICIPATING INTERN AGENCIES
Behind Every Door Ministries
$763.25
Funding to support access to internships and professional skill development for youth in under-resourced communities.
Buckner Children & Family Services $15,263.61
Funding to support access to internships and professional development for youth in under-resourced communities.
Cornerstone Crossroads Academy
$27,500
Funding to support access to internships and professional skill development for youth in under-resourced communities.
Dallas Leadership Foundation
$33,000
Funding to support access to internships and professional skill development for youth in under-resourced communities.
For The Nations Refugee Outreach
$33,000
Funding to support access to internships and professional skill development for youth in under-resourced communities.
Youth Believing In Change
$33,000
Funding to support access to internships and professional skill development for youth in under-resourced communities.
TRANSFORMATION HAPPENS… WE SEE STRENGTH.
TO ALLEVIATE CONDITIONS THAT ARE HARMFUL TO FAMILIES AND PUT CHILDREN AT RISK
The Foundation aims to alleviate conditions that are harmful to families and put children at risk, because children and youth should live in families that love and nurture them and are equipped with the strengths to protect them from abuse, neglect, or other traumas.
FAMILY & YOUTH SUPPORT
“You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with shouts of deliverance.”
Psalm 32:7
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
1. Domestic Violence Safety & Care: Programming around safety and recovery for child or youth victims of domestic violence.
2. Family & Parenting Support: Programming around family and parent support for children or youth who have experienced traumatic experiences.
3. Family Home Visiting: Programming around social services delivered to families with new children through a home visiting platform.
4. Homeless Shelter & Care: Programming around housing, personal goods, and social resources for homeless children or youth.
5. Household Urgent Support: Programming around supports for households.
6. Runaway/Trafficking Aftercare: Programming around housing and social resources for runaway or trafficked children or youth.
7. Student Dropout Prevention: Programming around social resources for students at risk of school failure due to personal and family conditions.
8. Teen Pregnancy Aftercare: Programming around pregnancy services and social resources for pregnant youth.
9. Youth Mental Healthcare: Programming around mental health care services delivered to youth who have mental and behavioral health needs.
JOURNEY TO DREAM
Journey to Dream staff shared this about the teens in their Transitional Living Program: “Against hardship, stories of resilience and triumph inspire us to be very proud of our four high school seniors. All of our seniors have experienced unspeakable trauma at the hands of others and, as a result, were placed in our Transitional Living Shelter. They defy the odds through sheer determination and the support of their teachers and Journey to Dream staff. They are the first to graduate high school in their families and the first to enroll in college. They are rewriting their narrative, transforming adversity into opportunity, and choosing to let their past empower them.
It’s not just about academic achievement; it’s about reclaiming dignity, reshaping destinies, and proving that every teen, regardless of circumstance, holds the potential for greatness. Journey to Dream is beyond proud of these teens; watching them grow and knowing they are impacting the community is our daily WHY!”
FAMILY & YOUTH SUPPORT GRANTS
AWARDED
Arlington Life Shelter $50,000
Funding to support the Road Home Program as they work with those affected by homelessness.
Catholic Charities of Dallas $50,000
Funding to support the Together We’re Better programming facilitated in Dallas County community locations.
Center for Survivors of Torture $50,000
Funding to support the Healing Children Program which provides refugee children and youth with counseling services and other resources.
ChildCareGroup $100,000
Funding to support the Born Learning Program.
Children First $25,000
Funding to support counseling services for children and youth.
ChristianWorks for Children $30,000
Funding to support GriefWorks, AdoptionWorks and KIDWorks programs for children dealing with traumas such as death of a loved one, adoption transitions, or their parents’ divorce.
Communities In Schools of North Texas $75,000
Funding to support the Integrated Student Supports programming.
Communities In Schools of the Dallas Region $110,000
Funding to support case management and clinical support teams in Dallas County.
Cook Children’s Health Foundation $25,000
Funding to support training of additional clinicians in the EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization) modality.
Family Compass $275,000
Funding to support general operations for child abuse prevention services.
Hope Supply Co. $50,000
Funding to support the Critical Needs Program so diapers and other resources can be provided to children who may be experiencing homelessness or have high needs.
ilooklikeLOVE $15,000
Funding to support general operations for their Mobile Diaper Pantry and EmpowerU programs.
In My Shoes $20,000
Funding to support general operations for their maternity home and supporting services for expectant and parenting mothers.
Jewish Family Service of Dallas $800,000
Funding to support the Children’s Mental Health Program.
Journey to Dream Foundation $35,000
Funding to support the Kyle’s Place transitional living program for foster and homeless teens aged 14 to 19.
FAMILY & YOUTH SUPPORT GRANTS AWARDED
JPS Foundation $100,000
Funding to support JPS Health Network’s Adolescent Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit.
Juliette Fowler Communities $50,000
Funding to support the Ebby House residential program for young women aging out of the foster care system.
Lena Pope $200,000
Funding to support evidence-based, trauma informed counseling services for low-income children, youth, and their families.
Loreto House $15,000
Funding to support the expansion of pregnancy and parenting services into Flower Mound.
Men of Nehemiah Families $25,000
Funding to support general operations so that the family program can continue.
Mosaic Family Services $40,000
Funding to support the Childcare and Advocacy Program which connects clients to resources after surviving domestic violence or human trafficking.
New Friends New Life $50,000
Funding to support Youth Resource Center Programs.
POETIC $50,000
Funding to support the POETIC Trauma Therapy and POETIC Creative Arts Therapy programming.
Presbyterian Night Shelter of Tarrant County $100,000
Funding to support the Family Services Program.
Rainbow Days $50,000
Funding to support the Family Connections program, which provides comprehensive support services for children living in emergency, transitional or domestic violence shelters.
Ranch Hands Rescue $100,000
Funding to support mental health counseling for male survivors of sex trafficking.
Recovery Resource Council $125,000
Funding to support the Enduring Families Program.
SafeHaven of Tarrant County $100,000
Funding to support the SafePlay program providing therapeutic services to children residing in their two emergency shelters.
Shaken Baby Alliance $60,000
Funding to support general operations to support victim families, train law enforcement, and offer prevention services for high school students.
FAMILY & YOUTH SUPPORT GRANTS AWARDED
STEPS With Horses $30,000
Funding to support therapeutic counseling programs for veterans, their family members, and youth.
Suicide and Crisis Center of North Texas $50,000
Funding to support general operations.
Traffick911 $30,000
Funding to support the Voice & Choice program for trafficked and/or high-risk for trafficking youth.
Unbound Now $30,000
Funding to support services for youth victims of trafficking and other vulnerable youth in North Texas, including outreach and training.
Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County $40,000
Funding to support the Children’s Therapeutic Enrichment Program, which provides quality, therapeutic programming for children experiencing homelessness.
The Warm Place $40,000
Funding to support grief programming for children and families.
TRAFFICK911
Sophia* was trafficked for six months at 15 years old. Her Traffick911 Advocate met her the night she was recovered by law enforcement and brought her a backpack, clothes, and food and they bonded over coloring and Flaming Hot Cheetos. After that night, Sophia was placed into a foster home, and even though she was safe from exploitation, she struggled to find hope. During that time, she dealt with suicidal ideation, ultimately leading her down a dark path. But after weeks of working with her Traffick911 Advocate, she gave an inspiring update. They spent their last visit journaling and dreaming together, and Sophia shared the best news we could have hoped for. Sophia’s foster parents began taking the initiative to adopt her. For the first time in her young life, she had a home at Christmas. Today, Sophia is beginning to thrive and still sees her Advocate regularly to build skills for her future. They spend time scrapbooking and journaling as she continues to find healing and work through the trauma she experienced while being trafficked.
Their experience with thousands of victims has taught us that it was a relational wound (often many) that caused and contributed to victimization, and it will be healthy relational bonds that help victims heal and move from victim to survivor. In 2023, support from The Rees-Jones Foundation provided Sophia and dozens of kids like her with direct victim services like crisis response and the backpack, clothing, and food Sophia received from her Advocate.
*Name and identifying details changed to protect identity
UNBOUND NOW
Amy* had been horribly trafficked starting at a very young age. She had been moved from state to state. At age 17 she was able to connect with an advocacy agency in another city. That agency sent Amy to the Underground program of Unbound Now. Amy had a wonderful sense of humor and great smile. Underground staff connected Amy with a shelter for minors. Amy had some struggles there but loved coming to the Underground to work on her homework. She came almost every day of the week for a few hours a day. Staff asked Amy if she would like to join them on an outing with other youth to the Fort Worth Zoo.
Amy’s childhood did not allow her to do many “kid things” and she had a blast. An Underground staff member saw a merry-goround and asked if she ever had ridden one. She said “no” and was absolutely thrilled when she took a ride. Amy continued doing well with her school work and eventually got accepted into a transitional living program. She came in one day with a new outfit and her hair done and told staff she was going to apply for a seasonal job at a retail store. The team gave Amy some tips and prayed with her. She not only got the job, but they gave her a long-term position. She still comes to the Underground to visit and work on her studies.
What Amy encountered at the Underground was a true safe place where she was not required to exchange her body in order to receive back warmth, food, or emotional support. With each visit, she was met with the expert and trauma-informed care of the Underground staff who empowered her with the tools she needed to understand healthy relationships and how to build a life
in freedom. The Underground staff have witnessed firsthand the transformational power of this special place, and the increased stability, positive self-esteem, and joy that youth experience as they receive services.
*Name and identifying details changed to protect identity
WHEN TRANSFORMATION HAPPENS… WE SEE COMMITMENT.
TO SUPPORT THE WELLBEING OF COMMUNITIES AND A PLACE-BASED STRATEGY FOR NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION
NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
I Peter 4:10
The Foundation supports the wellbeing of communities and supports a placed-based strategy for neighborhood revitalization, because North Texas children and youth should live in communities that support them.
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
1. Community Advocacy: Programming around giving voice to communities and empowering leadership.
2. Community Amenity Development: Programming around providing community amenities.
3. Community Food & Nutrition Access: Programming around food security and access to healthy options.
4. Community Health Care: Programming around health coverage, provider availability, provider linguistic and cultural competency, and quality of care.
5. Economic Opportunity: Programming around employment, income, expenses, and debt.
6. Neighborhood Housing Development: Programming around housing development and construction.
7. Neighborhood Land Protection: Programming around housing, transportation, safety, parks, playgrounds, walkability, and ZIP code/geography.
ST. PHILIPS SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY CENTER
In 2023, St. Philip’s School and Community Center expanded to include 8th grade so it is now a PreK2-8th Grade institution! The middle school program passionately embodies the school’s theme, “Thriving Together”, fostering a dynamic community of growth and collaboration. Through engaging activities and projects, they foster a culture of mutual support, where rigorous learning is an opportunity to strengthen and stretch students. Encouraging teamwork, the middle school program instills values of respect, integrity, and perseverance, nurturing a sense of belonging and collective accomplishment.
CAFÉ MOMENTUM
Maya grew up in Shreveport, LA, and moved to Dallas alone at just 17. She began the Café Momentum internship in August 2017 at the age of 19. In March of the same year she had been arrested in Tyler, TX. After being arrested she was faced with a decision to make. She could return to Louisiana where, in her words, there were no opportunities, or she could move to Dallas and have a chance to seek out opportunities. Maya explains it as choosing between a home and no opportunities or homelessness and opportunities. (A choice no one should ever have to make.) She chose homelessness. Maya moved to Dallas and found her way to a group home, where a staffer suggested Café Momentum to her. Maya indicates being scared to come to Café Momentum but also being unwilling to pass up an opportunity. She came to Café Momentum looking for stability. What she found was “stability, a family, and a backbone.” Maya’s road after starting the Café Momentum internship program was not entirely smooth: she continued to struggle with believing in herself, having faith in her future, and figuring out who she was. Maya has learned to believe in herself and take charge of her future. Additionally, she has more of an idea of who she is and who she is becoming. After Maya successfully completed the Café Momentum internship program, she obtained a certificate in medical assisting. She now works at Children’s Hospital in the gastrointestinal department, and credits Café Momentum with helping her succeed.
NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT GRANTS AWARDED
Cafe Momentum $50,000
Funding to support the Tiers of Success Internship Program for justice-involved youth.
Child Poverty Action Lab $100,000
Funding to support a blight remediation, data infrastructure, and toolkit to help create safer Dallas neighborhoods.
St. Philip’s School and Community Center $25,000
Funding to support a master plan update to be performed by Catalyst Urban Development.
Texas 2036 $250,000
Funding to support general operations for their work to position Texas for long-term prosperity.
WHEN TRANSFORMATION HAPPENS… WE SEE WORTH.
TO SERVE CHILDREN AND YOUTH LIVING WITH PROFOUND DISABILITIES WITH ACESSS TO
THERAPIES AND SUPPORTS
YOUTH DISABILITY CARE
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Psalm 139:14
The Foundation works to serve children and youth living with profound disabilities with access to therapies and support, because children and youth with disabilities should have the highest quality of life possible.
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
1. Adaptive Camping: Programming around camping opportunities for youth with disabilities.
2. Adaptive Youth Formation: Programming around youth formation programming for youth with disabilities.
3. Animal-Related Therapy: Programming around animal-related therapy for children and youth with disabilities.
4. Disability Living Support: Programming around life skills, housing, employment, and socializing for youth with disabilities who are transitioning to adulthood.
5. Disability Patient & Family Support: Programming around home support, financial support, and experiences for families that have a child or youth with disabilities.
6. Disability Therapeutic Care: Programming around health care and social resources for children or youth with disabilities.
7. Early Childhood Intervention: Programming around screening and therapeutic Early Childhood Intervention programming for children.
8. Special Education & Child Care: Programming around education for children or youth with disabilities.
UT DALLAS CENTER FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
The Center for Children and Families (CCF) at The University of Texas at Dallas provides important early interventions for children with developmental delays and disorders. Through the Grow With Me and Play With Me programs, children are screened for developmental delays, and parents participate in groups that help them learn about their child’s development, share resources, and build strong parent-child attachment.
The Foundation began funding CCF in 2023 to help them expand programming.
YOUTH DISABILITY CARE GRANTS AWARDED
Advocates for Special People $65,000
Funding to support the Special Connexions programming.
Camp Fire First Texas $45,000
Funding to support summer 2023 camper scholarships.
Camp Summit $115,000
Funding to support summer 2023 camper scholarships.
Camp Sweeney $75,000
Funding to support summer 2023 camper scholarships.
Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation $10,000
Funding to support summer 2023 camper scholarships.
Equest $195,800
Funding to support infrastructure repairs and replenishing the herd of therapy horses.
Foundation for the Callier Center and Communication Disorders $121,000
Funding to support the renovation and expansion of the Callier Center’s hearing aid manufacturing lab.
Joni and Friends $40,000
Funding to support 2023 camper scholarships.
Lighthouse for the Blind of Fort Worth $24,000
Funding to support summer 2023 camper scholarships.
ManeGait $75,000
Funding to support access to equine therapy for children and youth with disabilities.
Metrocare Services $100,000
Funding to support the Early Childhood Intervention Program.
National Kidney Foundation $10,000
Funding to support summer 2023 camper scholarships.
Neuro Assistance Foundation $20,000
Funding to support the Quality of Life for Children Program for North Texas children.
New Hope Equine Therapy $25,000
Funding to support access to equine therapy for children and youth with disabilities.
Notre of Dame Schools $365,000
Funding to support scholarships for students with disabilities.
Patriot Paws Service Dogs $300,000
Funding to support general operations and the breeding facility as they pair trained service dogs with veterans with disabilities and other populations.
Ronald McDonald House of Fort Worth
$20,000
Funding to support the Share-A-Night program to provide housing for families with a child undergoing medical treatment at a local hospital.
The University of Texas Foundation $125,000
Funding to support the expansion of the Grow with Me and Play with Me programs.
Victory Therapy Center $50,000
Funding to support access to equine therapy for children and youth with disabilities.
JONI & FRIENDS
Camilla and Aran were thrilled to welcome their first child, but due to complications, Isaac was born early and remained in the hospital much longer than expected. His diagnosis was Cobalamin C Deficiency (CBLC), a genetic metabolic disorder that prevented his body from absorbing vitamin B-12, the essential element that nourishes the nervous system. If Isaac survived, he would struggle with seizures, blindness, and significant cognitive and developmental delays.
His mother, Camilla, was only 21 years old when he was born. Challenged by motherhood, bitterness overcame her as she retreated into her world of loneliness. She said, “My friends’ babies met all the milestones, and Isaac didn’t. The dynamics and relationships changed, and felt that my family wasn’t accepted anymore.”
Camilla was angry when her husband Aran registered for Joni & Friends Family Retreat because Isaac’s medical condition is complicated. Her reluctance to attend quickly transformed into peace and joy as the first day of camp unfolded.
“It’s the first time I felt accepted and normal, and I wasn’t trying to hide anymore.” While the volunteers at Family Retreat cared so tenderly for Isaac, Camilla truly rested.
Aran remembers a story about another dad’s adult son with a disability. “For 39 years I prayed for God to heal my son, and then one day God told me it wasn’t him that needed healing. He is innocent. The one who needs healing is me.” Aran recounts “that hit Camila and me really hard.”
Isaac’s younger brother Noah bonded with other siblings and observed how they related to their siblings with special needs. For Isaac’s family, becoming part of the Joni & Friends community has been transformative. The friendships forged and memories created at Family Retreat carry them through their daily difficulties.
WHEN TRANSFORMATION HAPPENS… WE SEE
RELATIONSHIPS.
TO SERVE YOUTH WITH INSTRUCTIVE AND CHRISTIAN-CHARACTER FORMING EXPERIENCES
The Foundation serves youth with instructive and Christian character-forming experiences, because youth should have safe places in their community where they have the opportunity to flourish and fulfill their God-given potential.
YOUTH FORMATION
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
I Timothy 4:12
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
1. Early Childhood Development: Programming around early childhood development and education.
2. Education: Programming around literacy, language, vocational training, primary education, and higher education.
3. Out-of-School Time Enrichment: Programming around out-of-school time experiences for youth.
4. Youth Camping: Programming around camping experiences for youth.
5. Youth Formation System: Programming around supporting the out-of-school-time system.
6. Youth Mentoring: Programming around adult and peer mentoring for youth.
7. Youth Scouting: Programming around scouting experiences for youth.
WESLEY-RANKIN COMMUNITY CENTER
Every summer, Wesley-Rankin Aspiring Professionals are placed in 7-week internships across the DFW area. Last year, one student, Alex, attained a position on the cooking team at CC Young, a Dallas senior living community. Alex has always had creative energy but never thought about how cooking is, indeed, creative!
According to Alex’s supervisor, his listening skills, attention to detail and completion of tasks ranked outstanding in performance.
Although Alex’s internship ended on a Thursday, he returned to CC Young two days later to begin a permanent part-time job with the community, which plans to hire him full-time as soon as he graduates high school. Alex is very excited about this development and now eager to take a gap year between high school and college in order to get the full-time experience at CC Young and to save some more money.
YOUTH FORMATION GRANTS AWARDED
Academy 4 $75,000
Funding to support the delivery of mentoring programs in North Texas schools.
Behind Every Door Ministries $250,000
Funding to support general operations to continue offering summer programming for youth.
Big Thought $100,000
Funding to support the Thriving Minds afterschool program.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County $50,000
Funding to support the after-school and summer programming at five Fort Worth Club locations: Las Vegas Trail, Northside, Poly, Southside, and Stop Six.
BridgeBuilders $50,000
Funding to support youth programs serving children in the Bonton and Ideal neighborhoods in South Dallas.
Bridge Lacrosse $20,000
Funding to support general operations for programs to continue throughout lowincome areas of Dallas.
Brother Bill’s Helping Hand $40,000
Funding to support after-school and school break programming in West Dallas.
Casa del Lago $35,000
Funding to support early childhood education and out-of-school time programming.
Catch Up & Read $50,000
Funding to support general operations for quality literacy programming.
Center for Transforming Lives $85,000
Funding to support the Early Childhood Education Program.
Central Texas Conference of The United Methodist Church $25,000
Funding to support summer enrichment day camp programming.
Dallas Afterschool $75,000
Funding to support the Program Quality
Initiative which provides services to various Dallas out-of-school time providers.
Dallas Leadership Foundation
$1,000,000
Funding to support the building of the new Dallas Leadership Center.
Dallas Prestige Group $25,000
Funding to support the delivery of the Prestige Partners leadership development program.
Educational First Steps $150,000
Funding to support delivery of the Four Steps to Excellence Program in childcare centers in Southern Dallas.
Elevate Dallas $30,000
Funding to support their unique mentor/ teacher model of ministry serving students in Northwest Dallas.
Fellowship of Christian Athletes $100,000
Funding to support the North Texas Growth Fund to expand staffing in underserved areas in Dallas-Ft. Worth.
YOUTH FORMATION GRANTS AWARDED
First Tee-Fort Worth $100,000
Funding to support the Life Skills and chapter-led programs, and funding for general operations.
For Oak Cliff $50,000
Funding to support general operations to continue serving this under-served neighborhood and provide tools to empower the residents.
For the Nations Refugee Outreach
$75,000
Funding to support after-school and summer programming for refugee children in Dallas.
Forerunner Mentoring Program $75,000
Funding to support general operations for youth mentoring programs in the Lake Highlands neighborhood.
Fortress Youth Development Center
$60,000
Funding to support general operations to provide free early childhood, pre-K, and after-school care in the South Side neighborhood of Fort Worth.
Friends of Sky Ranch
$75,000
Funding to support summer 2023 camper scholarships.
HOPE Farm $75,000
Funding to support general operations for the South Dallas and Fort Worth locations.
Interfaith Family Services $50,000
Funding to support the Hope and Horizon’s Afterschool and Summer program.
Jubilee Park and Community Center
$75,000
Funding to support their out-of-school time programming.
Kids Across America $75,000
Funding to support summer 2023 camper scholarships.
The King’s Academy $150,000
Funding to support general operations to help provide a Kingdom education for children in South Dallas.
Literacy Achieves $30,000
Funding to support the Early Childhood Education program for children under five who are learning English.
Lumin Education $150,000
Funding to support scholarships for current students.
Mercy Street $200,000
Funding to support general operations for its Christ-centered programs in West and South Dallas.
Presbyterian Camps at Gilmont $13,750
Funding to support summer 2023 camper scholarships.
Project Transformation of North Texas
$100,000
Funding to support summer enrichment day camp for 2023 and afterschool programming.
Rivertree Academy $1,000,000
Funding to support the capital campaign to build a new school building and campus in the Como neighborhood of Ft. Worth.
YOUTH FORMATION GRANTS AWARDED
Rivertree Academy $75,000
Funding to support general operations to continue providing a quality, Christian education to the children in the Como neighborhood of Ft. Worth.
T.R. Hoover CDC $50,000
Funding to support youth programming in the Ideal neighborhood in South Dallas.
Together We Thrive $35,000
Funding to support general operations for their mentoring program for youth with high needs at Lincoln High School, Maya Angelou High School, and Pinkston High School.
Vogel Alcove $500,000
Funding to support the capital cost for the build-out of the grantee’s childcare facility to be located at the Redbird campus.
Wesley-Rankin Community Center
$85,000
Funding to support year-round children and youth programming in West Dallas.
West Dallas Community School
$125,000
Funding to support general operations for high-quality, classical, Christian school serving students in West Dallas and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Young Life-Dallas $150,000
Funding to support Young Life’s Urban Initiative, Capernaum, and Young Lives ministry.
Young Life-National $1,000,000
Funding to support Phase 2a of the capital campaign to increase the capacity of the Lone Hollow club and dining facilities.
*Grants listed in green are Capital Grants
*Grants listed in green are Capital Grants
MERCY STREET
In summer 2023, Mercy Street served 30 high school students through paid apprenticeships on site from West and South Dallas as part of the Leadership Institute. The students hailed from eight different high schools with most of the students attending Mercy Street partner schools---Pinkston (West Dallas), Uplift Heights (West Dallas), Lincoln (South Dallas), and Madison (South Dallas).
The institute provided Bible studies each morning, workforce development workshops, and field trips to gain hands-on experience at various college, company, and sports sites. Students worked throughout the program to create a “Shark Tank”-style project that was presented to a panel at the end. “Mobile Living,” a company that provided easily moveable furniture for people with disabilities was the 2023 Shark Tank competition winner.
Talia, a 2023 Junior Apprentice said this of the program: “The Leadership Institute has given me an opportunity to plan for my future, learn about jobs and businesses, and grow as a person. It has given me the chance to meet new people of all sorts of backgrounds, and connect with different people and their perspectives.
Personally, have learned to speak up about my own opinion and start networking and connecting with the people around me. can put my ideas on the table with confidence and have discovered business opportunities that opened because of my hard work.”
WHEN TRANSFORMATION HAPPENS… WE SEE HOPE.
TO INVEST IN COMMUNITY, SOCIETY, AND CHURCH ASSETS THAT ARE FOUNDATIONAL TO FLOURISHING
The Foundation collaboratively invests in community, society, and Church assets that are foundational to flourishing, because God abundantly provides for youth and families.
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
1. Church Capacity & Outreach: Programming around developing church capacity to serve local communities in international settings.
INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
“May His name endure forever; may it continue as long as the sun. All nations will be blessed through Him, and they will call Him blessed.”
Psalm 72:17
2. Entrepreneurial Empowerment: Programming around developing entrepreneurial capacity.
3. Water, Sanitation & Hygiene: Programming around extending water, sanitation, and hygiene services to under-resourced, international communities that do not have access to safe water.
4. Wildlife Preservation: Programming around preventing the extinction of endangered wildlife, including rhinoceros and elephants.
5. Youth Formation & Opportunity: Programming around education, youth formation, economic stability, and Christian faith for international youth and families.
SINAPIS GROUP
Sinapis Group believes in integrating faith in business—specifically in training up entrepreneurs to succeed and to make a social and spiritual impact in the marketplace. Since its inception in 2008, the organization has seen its graduates employ over 10,000 people. In 2023, The Foundation granted Sinapis Group with a $100,000 grant to support the Ascent program as they develop entrepreneurs for the kingdom of God in Kenya.
WATER4
Nabirye is a mother, widow, and entrepreneur in Mayuge District, Uganda. After her husband’s passing, she found an innovative way to provide for her family. She purchased a NUMA Now safe water home connection from 4Ward East Africa, a Water4 business. With convenient, reliable, safe water right outside her door, she began packaging, chilling, and reselling the water for twenty times the cost. She even began selling popsicles made with frozen, flavored NUMA water - much to the delight of all the community’s children! Her adult daughter also takes water and delivers it to local restaurants so they can cook with safe water. On these sales alone, she’s able to pay for her kids’ school fees and all of their home costs!
INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT GRANTS AWARDED
Big Life Foundation $75,000
Funding to support the Anti-Trafficking Intelligence Program.
The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust $100,000
Funding to support the Orphans Project for orphaned elephants and other wildlife across Kenya.
HOPE International $400,000
Funding to support the HOPE Burundi Savings Program and the HOPE Tanzania Savings Group Program.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy $100,000
Funding to support wildlife management, protection, conservation and feeding programs.
Water4 $130,000
Funding to support installation of piped water solutions for the delivery of safe water.
Sinapis Group $100,000
Funding toward the Ascent program which supports Christian entrepreneurs in Kenya with business accelerator programs.
INTERNATIONAL DISABILITY CARE
“Heal the sick in it and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.”
Luke 10:9
TO SERVE CHILDREN AND YOUTH WITH TREATABLE AND LIFELONG DISABILITIES WITH TREATMENTS AND SUPPORT
The Foundation serves children and youth who have treatable, lifelong disabilities with treatments and and supports families as they care for their children, because children and youth should have the opportunity to live their fullest lives and be cared for by family and community.
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
1. Clubfoot Treatment: Programming around treatment of clubfoot in infant children.
2. Community-Focused Therapeutic Care: Programming around therapeutic, quality of life, and enrichment programming for international youth with disabilities.
3. Disability System & Family Support: Programming around social support for children and youth with disabilities and their families.
4. Healthcare Professional Training Programming around training healthcare professionals in international settings.
5. Specialty Pediatric Surgery: Programming around specialty pediatric surgery for international children and youth who would not be able to access specialty surgery, particularly orthopedic procedures.
WORLD VISION
In 2023, the Foundation funded World Vision’s Able to Thrive project to serve children with disabilities in Malawi across five districts this year. Known as one of the largest humanitarian organizations in the world, World Vision aims to serve thousands of children through the project by identifying children with disabilities, registering them so the proper services can be recommended, referring them out for care, and following up so they never have to feel alone.
CURE INTERNATIONAL
When six-year-old Bawendi was two, she fell from a high chair and broke her lower left leg. As she got older, her leg became visibly misshapen, and she slowly lost the ability to walk, run, and even stand unsupported. She couldn’t play or attend school, and without specialized surgical intervention, her leg would need to be amputated to prevent infection.
Bawendi’s family was relieved when a local hospital referred them to CURE Children’s Hospital of Ethiopia (CURE Ethiopia). CURE Ethiopia is a specialized medical center where children suffering from life-limiting yet treatable disabilities can receive world-class surgical care and experience the love of Jesus throughout every step of the journey. Because all care is sponsored through the generosity of their donors, children and their families can focus on one thing: healing.
At CURE Ethiopia, Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Tim Nunn carefully removed a section of fibula from Bawendi’s right leg, ensuring that the attached arteries and veins were preserved.
Reconstructive and Plastic Surgeon Dr. Tesfaye Mulat then skillfully transferred the fibula section to her left leg, while the anesthetist closely monitored her throughout the procedure. The day-long surgery concluded with the application of an external fixator (metal frame) to Bawendi’s left leg to keep it stable while she healed.
This highly intricate procedure—called a free fibula transfer— is a new in-house service at CURE Ethiopia. The hospital is
continuing to expand the scope and complexity of its surgical care to reach even more children in desperate need of healing. New microvascular services like fibula transfers and pollicization procedures—designed to restore the hands of children with missing or underdeveloped thumbs and fingers— are critical treatments unavailable anywhere else in the country.
For children like Bawendi and their families, receiving this comprehensive care at CURE Ethiopia means life-changing hope and restoration.
INTERNATIONAL DISABILITY CARE GRANTS AWARDED
CURE International $3,025,000
Funding to support CURE Ethiopia general operations as they work to provide surgical care to the most vulnerable populations.
Hope Walks $1,500,000
Funding to support operations in Ethiopia, PATH system implementations across global programs, and new donor identification programs.
Kafika House $200,000
Funding to support general operations so children with disabilities can continue to receive life-changing medical care.
Ubuntu Life Foundation $150,000
Funding to support water well and pipeline project in Kenya.
World Vision $3,000,000
Multi-year funding to support the Able to Thrive project to serve children with disabilities in Malawi and other countries where the model may be piloted and used.
WHEN TRANSFORMATION HAPPENS… WE SEE FREEDOM.
TO PROMOTE EFFECTIVE SYSTEMS OF JUSTICE, WHICH DETER HUMAN TRAFFICKING
The Foundation supports effective systems of justice, which deter human trafficking, because children, youth, and families should be able to flourish under the protection of the law and not be subject to human trafficking.
INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE
“When
justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers.”
Proverbs 21:15
1. Justice System Capacity Building Programming around rescuing victims of human trafficking and systems work to prevent human trafficking.
2. Traffic Survivor Aftercare Programming around aftercare for individuals who have been rescued from human trafficking.
3. Trafficking Survivor Rescue Programming around rescue of victims of human trafficking.
ATLAS FREE
In 2023, the Rees-Jones Foundation began funding Atlas Free, an organization based in India whose mission is "to put sex trafficking out of business” as they work to equip, grow, and train local organizations working toward that end. In 2024, Atlas
Free aims to create a twelve-month Accelerator Fellowship to include twenty indigenous, Indian nonprofit organizations combatting sex trafficking of minors. Atlas Free aims to train and mentor each of the twenty organizations so they can rescue and better care for a greater number of victims.
INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE GRANTS AWARDED
Atlas Free $85,000
Funding to support the Accelerator Fellowship to combat sex trafficking of minors in India.
Human Trafficking Institute $1,250,000
Funding to support the Uganda anti-trafficking programming.
International Justice Mission
$8,327,299.00
Funding to support direct India program costs and the Vision Fund.
International Justice Mission $250,000.00
Funding to support the further development and implementation of the Justice Data System Partner Portal, a critical technology enhancement.
Justice Ventures International $610,000.00
Multi-year funding to support programming in India.
DARKNESS TO LIGHT
Aman*, a 17-year-old girl from Aurangabad, Bihar, went to her sister's house in Jehanabad to help during her sister's pregnancy when she was only 12 years old. After her sister gave birth, Aman wished to return to Aurangabad from Jehanabad. Her sister arranged for Aman to travel alone by train. However, during the journey, an old lady approached Aman, claiming they were both headed to Aurangabad and offered to take care of her during the trip. Trusting the lady, Aman agreed, but the lady deceived her and took her to Islampur, Bengal, where she was sold into a brothel.
For three years, Aman endured the harrowing life of exploitation in Islampur. Eventually, she was transferred to Balia, Begusarai, for the same purpose. The brothel keepers subjected her to threats, beatings, and isolation, and gave her drugs to control her.
Aman suffered ongoing mental and physical torment throughout this ordeal.
When the investigation team identified this case, they formulated a rescue plan, and in 2021, Duncan Hospital, the Nyay Network team, and Justice Ventures International rescued her with the support of local authorities.
Aman was supported with legal and aftercare services, leading to her successful reunion with her family in Aurangabad, Bihar. Now, she is learning tailoring and living happily with her family members.
*Name changed to protect identity
GRANTS
“From
