Letter from the President
Family. The Rees-Jones Foundation is a family. We have always been a family. As with all families, we began small, naïve, ignorant in many ways, but eager to learn and grow, committed to serving and loving each other. And we have grown. Our growth has included the immediate family of our team here at the Foundation but also the many and diverse members of the extended family that includes our grantees and trusted partners. Our family now extends around the world to places most of us have never been, but we all rejoice in the reach of the work we get to do, touching lives and extending our resources to vulnerable children and families near and far.
We owe our existence, our growth and maturity, our culture and the love we have for each other, to a particular family. That family has enabled all of us to experience the joy of being in the business of philanthropy. Jan and Trevor Rees-Jones had a vision in 2006 to create an organization the mission of which was to serve their Lord, our Lord, loving him by loving our neighbors. That mission is our distinctive. It has been our guiding light, and in leading us, they have never wavered from that call. There is something that undergirds that resolve, that is foundational to their leadership and our work. That foundation is the “cornerstone” of Christ. He is the King we serve.
We are not without faults however. Too often we are tempted to define our family narrowly, choosing to love neighbors who look like us or who are aligned with our interests. Our Lord of course placed no such limits on our love, and we are challenged by his words in Matthew 25 to love him by loving “the least of these brothers and sisters of mine.” Our call is to love his family, his brothers and sisters, as many of them as we are able with the time and resources he provides. With a fresh understanding of this call, we can now see all of the agencies we support and all of their constituents as parts of this broader family of our Lord. That is a picture that brings us greater joy as we discover new relationships and find a stronger family connection in old and valued relationships.
A few examples from our work in 2024. In our ongoing work in the Forest District of South Dallas, Pastor Chris Simmons, a longtime partner, embodies the love of Christ for all of his neighbors. They of course include his parishioners at Cornerstone Baptist Church. They also include the young children pursuing a Christian education at The King’s Academy and the young people working to complete their high school requirements at Cornerstone Crossroads Academy after previously dropping out or giving up on their education; students young and old becoming part of a larger family of Christ followers in South Dallas. And then for Pastor Chris there are also the least of these brothers and sisters, the homeless, the poor, the addicted, those searching for God and those simply searching for a shower or a hot meal. His love can be tender and it can be tough, but to Pastor Chris, “family” has no limits.
In Garland, we have been inspired by the commitment to family of Kaitlyn and Cameron Mullens at For the Nations Refugee Outreach. Some years ago, they realized God had brought to their doorstep refugees from around the world who were part of an international refugee resettlement program, so they responded to the call with love, needed supports of all kinds and a consistent witness to the love of God through Christ. Now, years later, family for them includes thousands of lives which have been enriched by the neighbor-love of For the Nations.
We also learned more about the work of Carolyn and Wayne Walker whose idea of family extends to the thousands of men and women who have no place to call home. They ask two simple questions: do you want to get off the streets, and do you want to know more about Jesus. An affirmative answer to either question brings them into the family waiting for them at Our Calling. But they are not excluded from the family if they answer no. The men and women at Our Calling extend hospitality unconditionally to all who come to their door, providing hot meals, showers, extra blankets and clothing, counseling and referrals to needed services, and even care for their pets.
A final example involves work we have supported in Africa for many years. HOPE International works to build economic resilience in families in the poorest countries in the world through the simple concept of a savings group. But it is more; through the work of groups of men and women in communities, offering support to each other and enabling each other to build small businesses or provide needed resources, families are built and sustained.
We see all of this work now more clearly as creating opportunities to strengthen the body of Christ, each member with a gift and purpose and each member supporting all of the others. There is a single bond that holds all of us together as a body, as an extended and vibrant family. That bond is the love of Christ our Lord. We are all made in his image, brothers and sisters in his sight, so identified with him that whenever we see each other, whenever we see and can address the needs of these brothers and sisters, we see and respond to the love of our King.
Another year, another way to appreciate and understand our calling to love and serve our Lord by loving and serving those he places in our path.
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, primarily in North Texas, to serve others and improve their quality of life in tangible ways.
The mission of The Rees-Jones Foundation is to serve God by serving others, sharing His resources in ways that provide opportunities for the disadvantaged, relief for the suffering, and encouragement in the growth and well-being of children and families in the community.
The vision of The Rees-Jones Foundation is that the love of Christ is experienced in tangible ways by those in our community 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, afford relief to those facing mental health challenges, provide youth with opportunities for enrichment and character development, encourage healthy families and communities, improve the quality of life for children with disabilities, and promote the humane treatment of companion animals.
FOUNDATION STAFF
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
CJ Stevenson Program Officer
Shellie Velasco Program Officer
Liz Curfman 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 Rees-Jones Foundation in 2006 out of proceeds from an entrepreneurial business enterprise 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. Rees-Jones 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.
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2024 Grant Making
Domestic 2024 Grant Making
The Foundation accomplishes its mission of serving the least of these by partnering with nonprofit organizations in North Texas through relational philanthropy.
Lifetime Grant Making 2024 Grant Making
2024 Lifetime Grant Making
2024 Grant Making
Grant Sizes
• Average: $332,730.15
• Median: $65,000.00
• Mode: $50,000.00
• Largest: $10,475,000
• Smallest: $1,200.00
ANIMAL WELFARE
We prioritize COMPANIONSHIP.
“The righteous cares for the needs of their animals…”
Proverbs 12:10
To Promote the Ethical and Humane Treatment of Companion Animals
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: 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 wellbeing.
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 the animal population in Dallas.
Animal Welfare Grants Awarded Brother Bill’s Helping Hand
BISSELL Pet Foundation $96,670
Brother Bill’s Helping Hand hosted a highly successful low-cost pet clinic on August 31, 2024, creating a significant impact in our community. The event provided spay/neuter services and microchipping for 100 cats and dogs, along with vaccinations for 96 pets. This impactful event was a true collaboration between:
Bissell Pet Foundation, The No Strays Project, SPCA of Texas, and Spay Neuter Network. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in an engaging pet education workshop led by Spay Neuter Network, where they gained valuable insights into proper pet care, including shelter, nutrition, and safe animal interactions. To make the day even more special, SPCA offered fun giveaways like snacks and toys for the pets.
Funding to support 50 days of spay-neuter services for ten high-intake Dallas zip codes.
Brother Bill’s Helping Hand $25,000
Funding to support spay/neuter services for the community.
Dallas Pets Alive $150,000
Funding to support expansion of the Positive Alternatives to Shelter Surrender+ (PASS+) program.
Friends of Dallas Animal Services $413,605
Funding to support staff to increase medical services for shelter pets.
Operation Kindness
$1,800,000
Funding to support the Shelter Operations and Adoption Program at the Carrollton shelter and Community Initiatives programs in Dallas County.
OurCalling $42,000
Funding to support the creation of a Safe Pet Area at their outreach center.
Texas Coalition for Animal Protection $50,000
Funding to support spay-neuter surgeries along with vaccinations and microchipping for dogs in 23 specified zip codes in the southern Dallas and West Dallas areas.
Operation Kindness
On June 6, 2024, Operation Kindness officially opened the doors of its Lifesaving Partnerships Hub in Dallas. Located less than a mile away from Dallas Animal Services (DAS), the new facility offers much-needed veterinary support for partner rescue groups pulling animals from DAS, so more animals can leave Dallas Animal Services’ care, increasing its lifesaving rate. The space also serves as a hub for interstate animal transport, the forensics partnership between Operation Kindness and Dallas and their pet food pantry. Funded by a grant from The Rees-Jones Foundation, 1,556 cats and dogs received care at the Lifesaving Partnership Hub in 2024. In the next year, they aim to assist more animals and allow them to live happy, healthy lives.
Co-founder Jan Rees-Jones speaking on the importance of partnership with Operation Kindness, “Since our Foundation’s inception in 2006, one of our key priorities has been to promote the humane treatment of companion animals. Properly cared for, these animals enrich our lives in so many ways and contribute to the overall well-being of families from all around our city. Operation Kindness has been there for our pets for almost 50 years, bringing the best medical care and services to the most vulnerable animals in our community, and I am so pleased to be a small part of their work.” The grand opening of the Hub was a culmination of years of collaboration between Operation Kindness and many animal welfare partners who are also grantees of the Foundation.
One meaningful story that has come out of the Hub involves Penny, who came into the care of Operation Kindness’ Lifesaving Partnership Hub in October 2024. Transferred in from Dallas Animal Services noticeably underweight, Penny was suspected of being a part of an animal cruelty case. She received lifesaving medical treatment from the veterinary team at the Lifesaving Partnerships Hub and was prepared for interstate transport to find a loving home. After traveling over 1,800 miles from Dallas, TX to Stoneham, MA, in early November, she was released to Operation Kindness’ rescue partner in the state -- The Grateful Dog Rescue. She is now thriving and enjoys soaking in the attention of her new loving family while exploring her new surroundings.
CHILD WELFARE
We prioritize WELL-BEING.
“You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with shouts of
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.
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
1. CASA Advocacy: Programming around Court Appointed Special Advocates for children or youth who are in substitute care.
2. Child Welfare System: Programming around implementing the child substitute care system.
3. Family Reunification & Safety: Programming around family safety and reunification for families involved with Child Protective Services.
4. Foster Youth Support: Programming around education, social, and therapeutic services for children or youth who are in substitute care.
5. Foster Youth Placements: Programming around temporary placements for children or youth who are in substitute care.
Our Father’s Children
Our Father’s Children received its first Rees-Jones Foundation camping grant in 2024. Specifically aimed to serve children ages 6-11 who have experienced abuse and neglect, Our Father’s Children had some big wins through its 2024 camps. With a new camp theme ---“Wonderfully Made”--campers learned who made them and who they were made to be, and walked away with Psalm 139:14 memorized. They also opened their new gym this summer which provided solace from the heat and served as a plan B for activities when there were weather challenges. Seven former campers came to serve with them this summer, which means that for over 26 years, Our Father’s Children has had 71 former campers come back and serve!
Child Welfare Grants Awarded
ACH Child and Family Services
$1,250,000
Funding to support their Kinship Connections program.
Buckner Children and Family Services
$124,000
Funding to support the North Texas foster care and adoption program.
CASA of Collin County $50,000
Funding to support general operations to continue serving children involved in the child welfare system.
CASA of Denton County $75,000
Funding to support general operations to continue offering quality services to children in foster care and to those at risk of being placed into substitute care.
CASA of Tarrant County $125,000
Funding to support general operations to continue offering services to children who have been abused or neglected.
Children’s Advocacy Centers of Texas
$120,000
Funding to be used to train and provide assistance to Texas advocacy centers in working with youth with problematic sexual behavior.
First3Years $60,000
Funding to support the Safe Babies program in Dallas and Tarrant Counties.
Heart of Courage $15,000
Funding to support general operations for programming with mothers whose children have been impacted by the child welfare system.
The Lullaby House $25,000
Funding to support The Lullaby House Residential Program for foster teens who are pregnant and parenting.
Our Father’s Children $20,000
Funding to support summer camp scholarships for children who have experienced abuse or neglect.
Texas Center for Child And Family Studies $125,000
Funding to support hiring a Family and Community Engagement Specialist attached to the Dallas Child Protection and Permanency Court and related costs at the Center.
Texas Family Initiative $500,000
Funding to support their HOPE Teams providing services to high needs children in substitute care in Region 3 Metroplex East.
TexProtects $150,000
Funding to support general operations in strategic initiatives surrounding child abuse prevention work.
Unfaulted $15,000
Funding to support general operations to continue serving girls who are aging out of foster care.
Upbring $75,000
Funding to support the foster parent recruitment efforts in North Texas.
Heart of Courage
Chelsey’s story is one of resilience and transformation. When Heart of Courage first connected with her, she was at a crossroads. Chelsey, a mother with a history of methamphetamine addiction, had shown incredible strength by completing an outpatient treatment program before the organization began working with her. However, not long after, she relapsed. Overwhelmed with fear and shame, she initially denied her relapse, worried about being judged or losing support.
A Heart of Courage family advocate stood by her side, providing consistent encouragement and emphasizing that honesty would always be met with compassion, not judgment. Gradually, Chelsey began to trust the team. A few weeks later, she courageously admitted to relapsing and shared her feelings of being lost and overwhelmed.
Chelsey’s motivation was clear: she desperately wanted to reunite with her son, who has autism and was being cared for by her grandmother. Balancing her recovery with the challenges of raising a child with special needs seemed daunting, but she refused to give up.
With Heart of Courage, Chelsey worked hard to rebuild her life. She secured a job and her own apartment. She also began individual counseling with the staff, where she explored the underlying causes of her addiction and developed healthier coping strategies.
Just before Christmas, Chelsey reached a pivotal milestone— her son was returned to her care. This reunion was a joyful and deeply moving moment for her family. Chelsey’s journey didn’t stop there. She is now focused on maintaining her sobriety and navigating the complexities of parenting a child with autism.
To support her in this new chapter, the team connected Chelsey with the Children’s Health Rees-Jones Center for Foster Care Excellence Dallas Clinic ensuring she has access to specialized resources for her son. With these tools and the continued support of Heart of Courage, Chelsey is making remarkable strides.
Chelsey’s story highlights the vital role that organizations like these play in helping families overcome obstacles and create lasting change. Heart of Courage is excited to continue supporting mothers like Chelsey, empowering them to heal, grow, and reunite with their children.
COMMUNITY BENEFIT
We prioritize OPPORTUNITIES.
“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”
Hebrews 13:16
To Serve Children and Youth with Specialized Philanthropic Programming
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. Christmas Philanthropy: Programming around Christmas gifts for children or youth from disadvantaged backgrounds.
2. Community Philanthropy: Programming around philanthropy, charity, and volunteerism.
3. Cook Canyon Ranch Scholarships: Programming around Cook Canyon Ranch Scholarships for Eastland and Ranger High Schools.
4. Rees-Jones Youth Internship: Programming around the Rees-Jones Youth Internship Program.
Children’s Medical Center Foundation
Children’s Health and UT Southwestern celebrated the groundbreaking of their new pediatric campus in October 2024 .With a landmark $100 million grant from The ReesJones Foundation awarded in 2023 and announced in 2024, the groundbreaking this fall was a celebration not only of the beautiful, new construction but also of the number of children who will be positively impacted by this level of pediatric care in North Texas for years to come.
At the ceremony, Troy Aikman, Dirk Nowitzki, amongst others took the time to highlight Jan and Trevor Rees-Jones and their heart for the community. The central hospital tower in the new build will be named Rees-Jones Tower. In addition to patient rooms and unique amenities, Rees-Jones Tower will serve as the main hospital entrance and house the lobby and welcome areas for patients and their families.
“We are grateful for our strong relationship with Children’s Health and UT Southwestern, two organizations that align with our interest in providing quality medical care to those in our community most in need, particularly our children and youth suffering from various medical conditions,” said Jan Rees-Jones. “Our family is thankful to be involved in building the new Dallas pediatric hospital and campus, a facility that will change lives both in our community and around the world.”
The Foundation has been a longtime supporter of Children’s Health, establishing the Rees-Jones Center for Foster Care Excellence in 2012 as the only clinic in North Texas to treat the unique physical and emotional needs of children and youth who have experience with the child welfare system.
“Community support is vital to the creation of this epic new pediatric campus in Dallas,” said Brent Christopher, President of Children’s Medical Center Foundation. “It’s impossible to fully express our gratitude to the Rees-Jones family, both for the example they set and for their overwhelming generosity. Their contributions make the whole community stronger, which will be felt by more kids and families than we can possibly imagine.”
To learn more about the new pediatric campus, please visit childrens.com/watchusgrow and www.utsouthwestern.edu.
Community Benefit Grants Awarded Community Benefit Grants Awarded
Arlington Life Shelter $1,200
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Behind Every Door Ministries $33,000
Funding to support the 2024 Rees-Jones Foundation Youth Internship.
Buckner Children and Family Services $16,500
Funding to support the 2024 Rees-Jones Foundation Youth Internship.
Casa del Lago $22,000
Funding to support the 2024 Rees-Jones Foundation Youth Internship.
Communities Foundation of Texas $50,000
Funding to support the 2024 North Texas Giving Day.
The Dallas Foundation $150,000
Funding for the Rees-Jones fund for community projects.
Dallas Leadership Foundation $33,000
Funding to support the 2024 Rees-Jones Foundation Youth Internship.
Dallas Life $3,000
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Denton County Friends of the Family $3,000
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Eastland County Child Welfare Board $3,000
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Eastland Independent School District $20,000
Funding for CCR scholarships.
Family Gateway $5,500
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Family Place $4,500
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
For the Nations Refugee Outreach $33,000
Funding to support the 2024 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 $3,000
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Jonathan’s Place $2,500
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Mosaic Family Services $3,000
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.
Rainbow Days $5,500
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Ranger Independent School District $20,000
Funding to CCR scholarships.
SafeHaven of Tarrant County $4,000
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
Union Gospel Mission of Dallas $2,500
Funding to provide Christmas gifts for children in need.
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 2024 Rees-Jones Foundation Youth Internship.
Christmas Giving The Rees-Jones Youth Internship Program
The Rees-Jones Foundation Youth Internship Program started in 2018 with the hope of directly pouring into the next generation. By partnering with longstanding partners with a grant to each agency, interns have had the chance to receive pay from their respective nonprofits, build mentoring relationships, learn the importance of excellence in the workplace, and focus on building strong character in relationship with God.
In 2024, the Foundation was able to welcome interns from Behind Every Door Ministries, Buckner Children & Family Services, Casa del Lago, Dallas Leadership Foundation, For The Nations Refugee Outreach, and Youth Believing in Change.
Interns met for four in-person gatherings and had the opportunity to serve with multiple organizations across the city who welcomed extra hands to invest in their communities. On Closing Day, they had the chance to hear from a panel of former interns who spoke on their college and career experiences so far, including their wins and challenges.
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 2024, the Foundation awarded $50,200 to 15 nonprofit organizations to provide Christmas gifts to children and families.
DISABILITY CARE
We prioritize ACCESS.
“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.”
Ephesians 3:20
To Serve Children and Youth Living with Profound Disabilities with Access to Therapies and Supports
The Foundation seeks to serve children and youth living with disabilities with access to therapies and supports, because children and youth with disabilities should have the highest quality of life and future welfare prospects possible.
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
1. Adaptive Adult Living: Programming around life skills, housing, employment, and socialization for youth with disabilities who are transitioning to adulthood.
2. Adaptive Camping: Programming around camping opportunities for youth with disabilities.
3. Adaptive Quality of Life: Programming around home support, financial support, and experiences for families that have a child or youth with disabilities.
4. Animal-Related Therapy: Programming around animalrelated therapy for children and youth with disabilities.
5. Disability Awareness & System: Programming around raising awareness about disabilities and addressing system needs.
6. Disability Condition Treatment: Programming around healthcare and social resources for children or youth with disabilities.
7. Early Childhood Intervention: Programming around evaluation and Early Childhood Intervention.
8. Special Education: Programming around special education for children or youth with disabilities.
Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas
The Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas has been able to support more than 2,600 individuals with Down syndrome and their families through a multitude of programs for ages birth through adulthood as a result of funding from The ReesJones Foundation. One of Down Syndrome Guild’s highlights in 2024 involved the return of the iCan Bike program, which had been on hold since the pandemic. iCan Bike is a national traveling program that teaches individuals ages 8 and older how to ride a conventional two-wheel bicycle and become lifelong, independent riders. This simple childhood rite of passage does not always come as natural to individuals with cognitive and motor delays, so Down Syndrome Guild was thrilled to provide this week-long program to families in North Texas once again. Riders start the week on an adaptive bike that gradually introduces more instability over the course of the week until they are ready for two wheels. Community volunteers are an integral part of the program running alongside riders to provide stability, encouragement, and confidence as they master a new skill. One family said, “I was very skeptical at first, but I was proven wrong. This is something my son has wanted to do for a long time like his brothers, and now the entire family can ride together.”
Disability Care Grants Awarded
Ability Connection Texas $100,000
Funding to support the training center program for adults with disabilities.
Advocates for Special People $125,000
Funding for both the purchase of a new 15-passenger van with a ramp and for general operations.
Association Independent Living $40,000
Funding to support the AFIL Way Program to develop independent living skills for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Best Buddies $25,000
Funding to support the Dallas Jobs Program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Blue Sky Therapeutic Riding & Respite $50,000
Funding to support the PURPOSE program for young adults with disabilities.
Bryan’s House $175,000
Multi-year funding to support medically-managed early childhood education for children with disabilities.
Camp Summit $115,000
Funding to support camper scholarships so children with disabilities can have access to camp experiences.
Camp Sweeney $50,000
Funding to support camper scholarships so children with diabetes can have access to camp experiences.
Canine Companions $250,000
Funding to support general operations to continue matching trained service dogs with children with disabilities.
Chase’s Place $50,000
Funding to support scholarship subsidies for children and young adults with severe intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Clayton Dabney for Kids with Cancer $20,000
Funding to support family assistance for children in the final stages of terminal cancer.
Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas $20,000
Funding to support general operations for providing resources and supports for individuals with Down syndrome.
Educational First Steps $250,000
Funding to support program expansion in order to equip childcare centers to serve children with disabilities.
Equest $100,000
Funding to support general operations for equine-assisted services and therapeutic programs.
Grace Lake Ministries, Inc. $25,000
Funding to support general operations for equine-assisted services and therapeutic programs.
Joni and Friends $50,000
Funding to support camper scholarships so children with disabilities and their families can have access to camp experiences.
Disability Care Grants Awarded
ManeGait $250,000
Funding to support the Beacon Project capital campaign for comprehensive improvements to better serve individuals with disabilities.
MHMR Foundation $150,000
Funding to support the Complex Care Clinic at MHMR of Tarrant County that serves children with complex disabilities.
Mi Escuelita $60,000
Funding to support the Social Services Program for students with delays and disabilities.
My Possibilities $150,000
Funding to support the Lifelong Learning Program for young adults and adults with disabilities.
Neuro Assistance Foundation $20,000
Funding to support the Quality of Life program for Tarrant and Dallas Counties so children who have been impacted by spinal injuries and disabilities can receive support.
Patriot PAWS Service Dogs $200,000
Funding to support service dogs for veterans with disabilities.
Sight Savers America $15,000
Funding to support the Low Vision and Blindness Program in North Texas.
Mi Escuelita
Mi Escuelita Preschool is thrilled to share the success of its Special Services program, made possible by The Rees-Jones Foundation. This year, Mi Escuelita served 20% of the children enrolled in special services, more than double from last year.
Prior to launching this initiative, Mi Escuelita did not have a formalized special services program. However, with funding from the Foundation, staff were able to bring the program in-house, creating a more personalized and effective service delivery model. They now offer families consistent resources, referrals, and case management, ensuring their children receive the necessary services. The special services team works closely with families, providing one-on-one guidance and support to explain the referral process and help families understand the importance of special services.
A key to success has been Mi Escuelita’s ability to foster strong relationships with families. Thanks to a 95% bilingual staff, teachers and leadership can communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking parents, which is crucial to breaking down the stigma around special services. Before bringing the program inhouse, external specialists could only visit centers once or twice a month, making it harder to form meaningful connections with families.
In addition, Mi Escuelita has been able to offer teachers invaluable classroom support and training, which is helping them better understand and serve children with special needs. Through regular classroom observation and ongoing professional development, staff are ensuring that teachers have the tools and strategies needed to create a more inclusive and effective learning environment for all children.
Children with special needs who are receiving services have a bright future with long-term, academic success. This initiative has made a transformative impact on both the families served and the educators who work with them, and Mi Escuelita look forward to seeing continued progress in the years to come.
EVANGELISM & DISCIPLESHIP
We prioritize FAITH.
“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.”
2 Corinthians 5:20
To Serve Youth and Families By Providing Winsome Opportunities to Hear the Gospel and Grow in Purposeful Living
The Foundation aims to serve youth and families by providing winsome opportunities to hear the Gospel and grow in purposeful living, because everyone should have the opportunity to know Jesus and be transformed by being part of God’s family.
Portfolio Activity Categories:
1. Christian Evangelism: Programming around exposing individuals to the Gospel.
2. Christian Church Planting: Programming around building up the church and establishing new congregations.
3. Christian Discipleship: Programming around growing individuals in their faith formation.
Redeemer City to City Evangelism & Discipleship Grants Awarded
The Rees-Jones Foundation has supported City to City New York City’s (CTCNYC) work to equip, train and resource church leaders to plant churches to share the gospel to New Yorkers and serve the city. This work involves working with a diverse group of pastors in various callings and seasons of life – some are pastors in their 20’s and 30’s who have experience working in church plants and have had a call to plant a church in NYC, while some are older, more established denominational leaders who are new to church planting.
When CTCNYC met Bishop Dr. Roger Ball in 2022, he was the regional director of a historic charismatic denomination, Church of God of Prophecy. Bishop Ball was overseeing a very large swath of NYC for his denomination but, like many long-standing denominations, Church of God of Prophecy had not planted a new church in a very long time. In fact, Bishop Ball was only seeing new leaders stepping up to pastoral leadership when someone passed away.
Through the training and coaching of CTCNYC, Bishop Ball was equipped with a theological vision to reawaken the denomination’s missional calling and expand the kingdom through planting new churches. And because of CTCNYC’s training, he was able to center this mission around evangelism and outreach.
Bishop Ball was so excited about this theological vision to reach New Yorkers that he talked over 80 leaders from the denomination to take the evangelism training at CTCNYC. That had a trickle effect in the way his church leaders related to their role and congregation. And soon enough, through evangelistic efforts and posture, churches began to see people come to faith
and began baptizing new believers. Since then the denomination planted a new church with plans for another church plant in the pipeline in NYC. Bishop Ball and the NYC region is now pioneering and leading other regions in the country for the denomination to recenter their churches around evangelism and prioritize church planting.
“Planting churches should become an ordinary conversation between all of us. We need to do so with deliberate speed.”
- Bishop Dr. Roger Ball
Alpha USA $1,000,000
Multi-year funding to support the creation of the new Alpha Youth Series.
Philo Trust $100,000
Funding to support general operations for expanded evangelism programming.
Redeemer City of City $1,000,000
Multi-year funding to support Phase 3 of the New York Project.
FAMILY & YOUTH SUPPORT
We prioritize STABILITY.
“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.”
Nahum 1:7
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 strength to protect them from abuse, neglect, or other traumas.
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
1. Advocacy Center Care: Programming around forensic and therapeutic programming for children or youth who are victims of abuse.
2. Early Childhood Development: Programming around early childhood development and education.
3. Family Home Visiting: Programming around social services delivered to families with new children through a home visiting platform.
4. Family Parenting & Care: Programming around family and parent support for children or youth who have experienced traumatic experiences.
5. Household Supplies Access: Programming around tangible support for families to thrive.
6. Mental Health System: Programming around supporting the mental health care system.
7. Outpatient Mental Healthcare: Programming around mental health outpatient specialists.
8. Runaway/Trafficking Care: Programming around housing and social resources for runaway or trafficked children or youth.
9. Shelter Care: Programming around housing, personal goods, and social resources for homeless children or youth and victims of domestic violence.
10. Substance Abuse Treatment: Programming around substance abuse treatment for youth or family members who have an addiction.
11. Teen Pregnancy Care: Programming around pregnancy services and social resources for pregnant youth.
12. Veteran Care: Programming around therapeutic services to stabilize veterans and their families.
POETIC
In 2024, POETIC served 205 individuals with therapeutic programming, including individual, group, and family therapy with 24/7 access to support. Most of these individuals have overcome experiences of child maltreatment, commercial sexual exploitation, or sex trafficking and have found healing through POETIC’s services and support.
Wanting to share the success seen across their programs, POETIC published three peer-reviewed manuscripts on program outcomes and therapeutic point of difference. Topics of these manuscripts included findings on the correlation between youth vulnerability, maternal age, self-harm and suicide in the Journal of Trauma Care; adverse childhood experience and substance use seen in youth; and emotional regulation amongst those sexually exploited. As proven experts in the field, POETIC was asked to present nationally and internationally on their program and treatment outcomes to raise the national dialogue on youth vulnerability and mental health.
Also in 2024, the POETIC Design Co. successfully launched its from Discard to Purpose® stationery line. This program, fully managed by POETIC Youth Interns, achieved a 31% increase in first-quarter sales. The paid internship program effectively channels youth creativity into artistic production while building practical skills.
Family & Youth Support Grants Awarded
Alliance for Children $300,000
Funding to support general operations to continue offering quality services for child abuse victims in Tarrant County.
Arlington Life Shelter $25,000
Funding to support the Road Home Program as they work with children affected by homelessness.
Ascend Dallas $200,000
Funding to support the Nurse-Family Partnership program.
Blue Haven Ranch $25,000
Funding to support general operations for residential programs serving single, pregnant mothers with children.
Braswell Child Development Center $40,000
Funding to general operations in the provision of high-quality early childhood education.
The Center for Integrative Counseling and Psychology
$150,000
Funding to support the Partnership for Accessible Counseling and Training program (PACT).
Center for Transforming Lives $750,000
unding to support the Changing the Landscape capital campaign, which will provide support to more single parents and their children as they lift themselves out of poverty and homelessness.
ChildCareGroup $75,000
Funding to support the Born Learning Home Visiting Program to equip parents with healthy parenting skills.
Children’s Advocacy Center for North Texas $300,000
Funding to continue offering services to children who have been abused in Denton, Wise, and Jack Counties.
Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County $250,000
Funding to support general operations that offer quality services to child abuse victims in Collin County.
Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center $400,000
Funding to support general operations to continue serving children who have been abused.
Family Compass $200,000
Funding to support general operations to continue offering quality child abuse prevention services.
Gill Children’s Services $25,000
Funding to support the last resort financial assistance program for foster children and children with disabilities in Tarrant County.
Hope Supply Co. $40,000
Funding to support general operations to continue offering local nonprofits much needed supplies for families in the community.
Family & Youth Support Grants Awarded Family & Youth Support Grants Awarded
In My Shoes $25,000
Funding to support general operations for the maternity home and support services.
Lena Pope $100,000
Funding to support mental health services for children, youth, and families.
Literacy Achieves $20,000
Funding to support the Early Childhood Education Program at the Vickery Meadow campus.
Loreto House $25,000
Funding to provide services to young women facing an unplanned pregnancy.
Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute for Texas $150,000
Funding to support the implementation of Youth Crisis Outreach Teams North Texas.
Men of Nehemiah $50,000
Multi-year funding to support the Men of Nehemiah Families program.
New Friends New Life $40,000
Funding to support programming delivered through their Youth Resource Center so more female youth trafficking survivors can receive recovery services..
Nexus Recovery Center $25,000
Funding to support the Pregnant and Parenting Women with Children (PPWC) program.
Paluxy River Children’s Advocacy Center $100,000
Funding to support general operations for programming with children who have experienced abuse in Erath, Hood, and Somervell counties.
The Parenting Center $100,000
Funding to support the Parent Coaching home visiting program.
POETIC $50,000
Funding to support general operations to continue offering therapeutic programming to youth who have experienced sex trafficking.
Presbyterian Night Shelter of Tarrant County $75,000
Funding to support the Family Services Program.
Ranch Hands Rescue $125,000
Funding to support general operations to continue animalassisted counseling services for youth who have been abused.
Recovery Resource Council $125,000
Funding to support the Enduring Families program to strengthen veteran families by providing clinical and non-clinical services to assist veterans after active-duty trauma.
SafeHaven of Tarrant County $100,000
Funding to support the SafePlay program to serve the children of those escaping domestic violence.
Shaken Baby Alliance $50,000
Funding to support general operations as they support victims of shaken baby syndrome and their families.
Traffick911 $50,000
Funding to support the Voice & Choice program for youth who have been trafficked or exploited.
Treasured Vessels Foundation $20,000
Funding to support their residential programming for female survivors of sex trafficking and other types of sexual exploitation.
Unbound Now $40,000
Funding to support the Center of Hope as it works with women and their children who are experiencing homelessness.
United Community Centers $30,000
Funding to support the Success by Six Program for literacy intervention in Fort Worth.
ChildCareGroup
Angela is a 43-year-old mother who is married with four children. She experienced childhood trauma and postpartum depression after each of her pregnancies. Angela learned about ChildCareGroup’s Born Learning program while attending a group connection as a guest. While she was excited about the possibilities, she was apprehensive about allowing someone into her home.
During the first several home visits, Angela remained guarded and discussed only negative experiences she had previously with other programs. She was reluctant to discuss her family’s needs and goals. However, her parent educator kept showing up with a listening ear and engaging parent/child activities. Over time, Angela began to recognize the developmental skills her youngest son gained since beginning the program. He could now solve simple puzzles, hold a pencil correctly and draw lines and circles, and his speech became clearer.
After seeing her son’s progress and learning to trust her parent educator, Angela started reflecting on her needs and discussing them openly with her parent educator. She had a high level of stress from wanting everything to be perfect which caused mood swings and crying. Then she noticed that her son would mirror her mood and refuse to engage.
Together, Angela and her parent educator developed a plan. She established a routine to help with time management, spent more time outside interacting with her children to elevate her mood, and created two calm corners – one for herself and one for her children.
Before long, everyone in her family noticed the change in Angela, and she and her son were excited each time her parent educator arrived at the house. She said this about her parent educator “because of your patience and kindness, you helped me to learn many things”. Angela calls the program a miracle.
Angela also began engaging in the community more. She attends a church group for couples therapy and nutrition classes with her children. She also enrolled in the YMCA where she exercises while her children participate in other activities
NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT
We prioritize PARTNERSHIP.
“For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Galatians 5:14
To Support the Wellbeing of Communities and a Place-Based Strategy For Neighborhood Revitalization
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.
Portfolio Activity Categories:
1. Neighborhood Advocacy: Programming around giving voice to communities and empowering leadership.
2. Neighborhood Development: Programming around providing community amenities.
In October 2024, OurCalling broke ground on OurCommunity designed to provide long-term, relational care for the most vulnerable homeless individuals, including the elderly, disabled, and abuse survivors. With $25M raised so far, the first phase of land development and construction of 25 homes is underway.
When complete, OurCommunity will feature 500 tiny homes and a central hub offering meals, medical care, counseling, addiction recovery, and spiritual support, making it the largest homeless housing project in North Texas and a model for the nation. The first residents are expected to move in this summer, with the community expanding further as more funding becomes available.
Neighborhood Development Grants Awarded
Advocates for Community Transformation $150,000
Funding to support general operations to further neighborhood safety and crime reduction work as they empower residents.
Baylor Healthcare System Foundation $350,000
Funding to support the capital costs for the build out of a new Community Care Clinic in the Forest District.
OurCalling $1,000,000
Funding for the construction of Phase 1 of OurCommunity.
Baylor Scott & White Healthcare System Foundation
Baylor Scott & White Health’s community care clinics provide quality care for uninsured and underinsured patients in Southern Dallas, many of whom lack access to a medical home.
Baylor Scott & White is now building a new, 7,000-square-foot clinic serving adult and pediatric patients in the revitalized Forest Redevelopment District in the Fair Park community. This clinic will fold in resources of the previously existing Baylor Scott & White CitySquare and St. Philips community care clinics and will serve 3,250 patients annually.
This increased access to primary care is critical for adults and children who lack medical insurance: Texas has one of the highest percentages of uninsured residents in the nation, and Dallas County has the state’s highest percentage of uninsured residents. Without access to quality care, many turn to hospital emergency departments when they would be better served by a medical home.
The clinics’ integrated care model includes a primary care provider, pharmacy services, behavioral health support, chronic disease management and specialty care referrals. Integrated care for families will include behavioral health services for children and compassionate care from dedicated pediatrician, Emily Sloan, MD. “Dr. Emily Sloan always takes her time with us and cares for each of my children, I’m so happy to have her a part of our family story,” shared a grateful parent.
Additionally, the larger clinic will allow for growth of the Baylor Scott & White Family Medicine Residency Program. This training for new physicians will build a pipeline of caregivers to serve under-resourced communities in the future.
“We’re grateful for the support from The Rees-Jones Foundation for helping make this initiative a reality. This new and larger clinic will enhance our approach to address barriers to care for families holistically in one location,” said Jeffrey Zsohar, M.D., medical director of Baylor Scott & White Community Care Clinics.
YOUTH FORMATION
We prioritize CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT.
To Serve Youth with Instructive and Christian-Character Forming Experiences
“One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.”
Psalm 145:4
The Foundation serves youth with instructive and Christian character development, because youth should have safe places in their community where they have the opportunity to flourish and fulfill their God-given potential.
Percentage of Dollars Awarded by Portfolio:
1. Youth Education: Programming around literacy, language, vocational training, primary education, and higher education.
2. Youth Time Enrichment: Programming around outof-school time experiences for youth.
3. Youth Camping: Programming around camping experiences for youth.
4. Youth Formation System: Programming around supporting the out-of-school-time system.
5. Youth Mentoring: Programming around adult and peer mentoring for youth.
6. Youth Scouting: Programming around scouting experiences for youth.
Youth With Faces Youth Formation Grants Awarded
Youth With Faces empowered 470 justice-impacted youth in 2024.
Students received critical career training, life skills, basic needs support, and community connections to equip them for a successful reentry into the community. Through hands-on training, campus enrichment activities, and trauma-informed support, these programs strengthened job readiness, social-emotional growth, and positive decision-making. Students engaged with employers, participated in paid work opportunities, and developed skills that set them on a path toward long-term stability.
With an expanded focus on reentry planning and stronger collaboration with juvenile system partners, Youth With Faces programs prepare justiceinvolved youth for life-long success by helping them build character, connections, and capabilities
AB Christian Learning Center $20,000
Funding to support general operations as they offer after-school and summer programming.
Academy 4 $75,000
Funding to support Academy 4 programs in Title 1 schools in Fort Worth and Dallas.
After-School All-Stars $40,000
Funding to support after-school programming in North Texas.
Beacon Hill Preparatory Institute $50,000
Funding to support general operations to continue providing reading support to students in Southern Dallas.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star $150,000
Funding to support faith-based mentor matches for students.
BridgeBuilders $50,000
Funding to support Youth Programs serving children in the Bonton and Ideal neighborhoods.
Brother Bill’s Helping Hand $40,000
Funding to support the Children and Family Enrichment programming.
Cafe Momentum $50,000
Funding to support the Tiers of Success Internship Program for justice-involved youth.
Catch Up & Read $50,000
Funding to support general operations for literacy programming.
Circle Ten Council, Boy Scouts of America $900,000
Multi-year funding towards the upkeep, maintenance and repair costs of the Trevor Rees-Jones Scout Camp.
Circle Ten Council, Boy Scouts of America $3,000,000
Funding towards the Generations Capital Campaign designated for improvements and enhancements to the Trevor Rees-Jones Scout Camp.
Communities In Schools of Greater Tarrant County $65,000
Funding to support Individualized Student Supports programming for Tarrant County students to achieve and stay in school.
Communities In Schools of North Texas $65,000
Funding to support Integrated Student Supports programming for students so they can achieve and stay in school.
Dallas Leadership Foundation $75,000
Funding to support youth programs in South Dallas during school year and summer.
Dallas Prestige Group $25,000
Funding to support leadership programming in South Dallas.
For Oak Cliff $75,000
Funding to support general operations to continue offering K-12 enrichment and needed community services in Oak Cliff.
Youth Formation Grants Awarded Youth Formation Grants Awarded
Forerunner Mentoring Program $100,000
Funding to support youth mentoring programming in the Lake Highlands area.
Friends of Sky Ranch $65,000
Funding to support summer camp scholarships for children from under-resourced communities.
Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas $85,000
Funding to support their new Oak Cliff In-Community Initiative.
Heart House $50,000
Funding to support general operations for in-school reading and afterschool programs.
Interfaith Family Services $50,000
Funding to support the Hope and Horizons after-school programming.
Kids Across America $65,000
Funding to support summer camp scholarships for children from under-resourced communities.
National Boy Scouts of America Foundation $1,000,000
Funding to support The Pillars of Scouting Campaign.
Project Transformation North Texas $75,000
Funding to support general operations for afterschool and summer programming.
Project Transformation of Greater Tarrant $20,000
Funding to support general operations for summer programming.
Readers 2 Leaders $50,000
Funding to support general operations as they continue offering reading support to students in areas of high need.
Reading Partners $50,000
Funding to support literacy programming in Dallas and Fort Worth schools.
Rivertree Academy $75,000
Funding to support general operations in serving the Como neighborhood with biblical pre-K 3-fifth grade education.
St. Philip’s School and Community Center $392,500
Funding to support construction of the Moody Performing and Fine Arts Center.
Stoney Creek Foundation $25,000
Funding to support summer camp scholarships for children from under-resourced communities.
To Be Like Me $20,000
Funding to support the Disability Awareness Program for elementary school children.
Together We Thrive $35,000
Funding to support their one-to-one mentoring programming for high school students in Dallas ISD schools.
United Way of Metropolitan Dallas for Read Up $20,000
Funding to support general operations to continue offering critical literacy programming.
Voice of Hope Ministries $125,000
Funding to support general operations to continue offering outof-school time programming for children in West Dallas.
Wesley-Rankin Community Center $85,000
Funding to support children and youth programming during the school year and during the summer.
West Dallas Community School $125,000
Funding to support general operations to continue offering a Christ-centered education for families living in West Dallas.
Young Life – Dallas $150,000
Funding to support Young Life’s clubs in under-resourced neighborhoods through its Urban Initiative, Capernaum, and Young Lives ministries.
Youth Equipped to Succeed $50,000
Funding to support the peer-to-peer mentoring program.
Youth With Faces $50,000
Funding to support general operations of Dallas County services with youth facing reentry.
AB Christian Learning Center
AB Christian Learning Center, a distinctively Christian organization, strategically hosts a six-week summer reading program that operates Monday through Friday all day during the months of June and July. The program is available to low-income students at risk of academic failure and is offered at no cost to the families. A favorite event each year for the staff and families is the Grand Finale where families are invited to come and see each site perform at the end of the summer. Jay Smith, AB Christian Learning Center’s music teacher, enjoys directing the young scholars in their final performances.
The theme for Freedom School, AB Christian Learning Center’s summer program, is “Something Inside So Strong,” which is a motivation song performed at the beginning of each day by all scholars at all sites. Trey describes his experience as a scholar in AB Christian Learning Center’s programs: “AB Christian learning center impacted me in a way that would make a person more happy and more loving, with its awesome staff, loving members, and cool vibes. They also provide high-quality learning, after school and learning programs for children from 5 to 12, they help with math, science and reading. I personally think AB Christian learning center makes you more advanced and smarter.” Trey has a powerful story about resilience in overcoming many challenges. Through his caregiver and AB Christian Learning Center partnering together, Trey has shown greater success academically, socially, and emotionally, and his caregiver now feels confident to have conversations with Trey’s school to advocate for him in whatever he needs to succeed.
INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
To Collaboratively Invest In Community, Society, and Church Assets Foundational to Flourishing
“Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!” Psalm 90:17
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.
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. Youth Formation & Opportunity: Programming around education, youth formation, economic stability, and Christian faith for international youth and families.
Living Water International
The Rees-Jones Foundation’s partnership is foundational in advancing Living Water International’s WASH Program Area (WPA) model and its implementation. The Foundation recognized the need for sustainability in WASH and was an early investor in exploring how the innovative WPA model, in various contexts, could increase sustainability. In 2024, through Living Water’s “Saturate” pilot in Rwanda, they are exploring how to better “reach all” through a primary partner, the local church and to incorporate creation care and resilience into the WPA model. Through this partnership, in their last fiscal year, over 271,000 people gained access to safe water, and more than 246,000 heard the gospel of Jesus Christ.
A teacher in Zambia, Vincent Phiri, shared how his life was impacted: “Our physical and spiritual needs were met. We now have safe water year-round. We have seen huge improvements in our sanitation and hygiene. Additionally, the school started an income-generating garden to help sustain these changes.”
International Development Grants Awarded
HOPE International $825,000
Multi-year funding to support the HOPE Burundi Savings Group Program.
Living Water International $3,481,000
Multi-year funding to support the WASH programs in Uganda, Zambia and Nicaragua; the Zambia Design Outreach Pilot the Saturate program; and general operations.
Sinapis Group $350,000
Funding to support operation and expansion of the Ascent program in Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
Water4 $250,000
Funding to support the installation of four new piped water systems in the Kabarole District, Uganda.
World Relief $1,000,000
Funding to support the Church Empowerment Zone programming for children and families living in Burundi and Malawi.
World Relief
At just 16 years old, Vanessa carries the weight of significant challenges. Hailing from the Gitega commune in Burundi, Vanessa is the eldest of four, with one brother and two sisters. Vanessa’s life took a tragic turn when her father passed away, leaving her mother struggling to care for the family as she dealt with her own mental illness. The loss and instability forced Vanessa to drop out of school in grade 8, leaving her at home for a year without the opportunity to study or plan for her future.
One day, a group from a World Relief-supported Child Protection Committee (CPC), made up of local church and community members, visited their village, offering support to families in need. Vanessa was surprised but hopeful. “It was the first time our family received a group of people who came to visit us with the aim of comforting us after the death of our father,” she recalled. During their visit, they listened to her struggles and the realities of her family life. “I felt like it was God who was visiting us,” she said, reflecting on the compassion and understanding they showed. The CPC members encouraged Vanessa to return to school instead of staying home, emphasizing that education would enable her to assist her family in the future. Inspired by their support, she accepted their offer to help her with school materials and their commitment to advocate for her mother’s mental health care. Thanks to this encouragement, Vanessa returned to her studies. She recently completed grade 8 and in September 2024, enrolled in grade 9.
Grateful for the assistance she received, she expressed her heartfelt thanks to World Relief for encouraging her through the child advocates. “If it weren’t for World Relief, I wouldn’t have found the joy and means to continue my studies,” she said. With renewed hope, Vanessa looks toward a brighter future, believing that education will give her the tool she needs for a better life for her and her entire family.
INTERNATIONAL DISABILITY CARE
We prioritize HEALING.
“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 in Developing Countries with Treatable and Lifelong Disabilities
The Foundation serves children and youth who have treatable, lifelong disabilities and supporting 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.
CURE International International Disability Care Grants Awarded
Clinical Services Building Construction
The CURE International Children’s Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, broke ground on a new clinical services building in 2024. This project is CURE’s biggest expansion project to date, and the building will house an outpatient department, five operating rooms, an 18-bed patient ward, and the ability to add two additional patient ward floors in the future. The building will serve the 2.8 million Ethiopian children who are estimated to be suffering from life-limiting disabilities by improving patient flow and quality care. It will also allow the hospital to perform 5,000 surgeries annually, a nearly 40% increase over current capacity. “My family and I love getting to support the healing of children in Ethiopia. It is one of the greatest privileges of our lives,” said Trevor Rees-Jones, co-founder of The Rees-Jones Foundation. “The huge growth of this hospital and the clinics and outreach CURE does throughout Ethiopia inspire us to continue to grow our commitment to children with disabilities. Each and every one of these children is loved beyond measure by God, and each one deserves care.”
Spine Services Expansion
The CURE International Children’s Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (CURE Ethiopia) also recently expanded the services they offer to include corrective spinal surgeries. CURE estimates that there are approximately 50,000 children in Ethiopia living with extreme spinal disorders that relegate children to a lifetime of disability and, in the most severe cases, premature death. This new service line at CURE Ethiopia is the country’s first pediatric spine program. The hospital is currently offering corrective treatment through both corrective torso castings and spinal rod implants. This program will allow the children of Ethiopia a chance at a longer, healthier life while addressing a critical need in the country’s healthcare system.
Bethany Kids $250,000
Funding to support general operations to increase surgical capacity and serve more children in Kenya and surrounding countries.
CURE International $10,475,000
Multi-year funding to support construction of the new clinical services building, kitchen, and laundry at CURE Children’s Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
CURE International $2,980,000
Funding to support the general operations of the CURE Ethiopia hospital.
Hope Walks $1,225,000
Funding to support general operations for Ethiopia work and organizational operations.
Kupenda for the Children $75,000
Funding to support general operations for support services, training and advocacy benefitting children with disabilities in Africa.
Ubuntu Life Foundation $150,000
Funding to support general operations and pipeline repair needs.
World Hope International $300,000
Funding to support programs for children with disabilities in Sierra Leone.
BethanyKids
“I come from Baragoi, Samburu North,” Namoru narrates. “About three weeks ago, gave birth to my son, Arunye. The doctors noticed a swelling at the back of my baby. They told me to come to BethanyKids, Kijabe, to seek help as my son required surgery. At the hospital where I gave birth, they discharged me from the hospital after two days. No one told me about my son’s condition. No one told me how to care for my son. When returned home, I just used a piece of clothing to clean what seemed like a wound on my son’s back. wish they at least told me how to clean him. Seeing my son sometimes in pain broke my heart.”
Namoru travelled to Kijabe with the help of a neighbour who offered to accompany her to BethanyKids, after a difficult birth journey. The journey from Samburu North took them almost 15 hours. Upon arriving, a partner organization accommodated her at Mustard Seed, a residence they offer to patients who travel from afar to receive treatment and require follow-up care after surgery. The following day, the doctors checked her son, admitted him, and scheduled his surgery. Namoru like many other women, especially those in rural areas, don’t get early medical intervention for children born with Spina Bifida, often because of financial constraints.
“I want my son to receive help, but we don’t have the funds. My husband’s age limits his ability to do much. BethanyKids and its partners changed this for us”
Through the partnership and donations from valued donors, Arunye has undergone a successful surgery performed by BethanyKids and is responding well. Now, Namoru’s eyes sparkle with gratitude as the kindness of her surgeons and team blooms into a lifeline, offering a glimmer of hope for a brighter future. The weight of a child’s future hangs heavy without the life-saving surgery provided here.
INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE
To Promote Effective Systems of Justice, Which Deter Human Trafficking
“But you must return to your God; maintain love and justice, and wait for your God always.”
Hosea 12:6
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.
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.
International Justice Mission
International Justice Mission’s (IJM) teams in South Asia have been able to expand and scale its work from 4 to 10 geographic regions. Just a few highlights from the past year include:
• Prominent Media Coverage: In August, IJM worked with a top South Asian newsmagazine on in-depth features on human trafficking and child labor, set in the context of Independence Day. The coverage led to immediate accountability from local officials who had once been apathetic, and helped elevate the public perception of bonded labor as a widespread, violent crime.
• Survivor Businesses & Networks: IJM saw survivor leaders blossoming all year long in their paths of freedom and recovery. We added two new survivor network chapters in two states. One state chapter has also started their own flourishing handicrafts business—giving survivors dignified work sewing bags and other beautiful home goods.
• Surprising State Staffing: In November, one state government announced the appointment of 1,612 Bonded Labor System Prohibition Officers (BLSPOs) to rescue and protect victims in each district.
This is a direct result of IJM’s advocacy. Their announcement also highlighted the high prevalence of exploitation in industries like agriculture, silk, construction, textiles, stone quarries, and brick factories
• Landmark Survivor Compensation: In January, the state government in one of its newest programs announced significant compensation to 83 survivors. This breakthrough rehabilitation funding took a year of advocacy from IJM and its partners, but demonstrates groundbreaking momentum in the fight against bonded labor in this state.
• Speedy Conviction: Legal cases can often drag for 5+ years in overburdened courts, but in March, the team celebrated the conviction of two traffickers just 10 months after authorities first intervened.
These men had exploited 20 children at a brick kiln until one of the newer state teams enabled their rescue and rehabilitation. This is one of the fastest bonded labor judgments IJM has ever seen.
International Justice Grants Awarded
Human Trafficking Institute
$1,250,000
Funding to support their anti-human trafficking operations in Uganda.
International Justice Mission $9,500,000
Funding to support the Vision Fund and program costs associated with the goal of ending slavery in South Asia.
Human Trafficking Institute
Brenda, 14, and her older sister, Silvia, lived in a poor village outside Kampala, Uganda. When a woman named Anita approached the girls and promised them jobs as maids in the city at her “guest house”, their family saw a chance for a better future. But the promise was a lie.
Once at the guest house, the sisters realized the truth—there were no jobs, only a trap - of which Brenda and Silvia were just two of many young girls. Anita claimed they owed her for travel and housing. To repay, they had to have sex with men who came to the guest house. If they refused, she would send people to hurt their family. When men arrived, one of them chose Brenda, but Silvia stepped in, begging, “Take me instead.”
Meanwhile, HTI and its government partners uncovered a Facebook post linked to a suspected trafficking operation. Using digital forensics, they traced the location and, after gathering evidence and coordinating with aftercare partners to ensure necessary care for victims, planned a midnight raid. At 2 a.m., Ugandan police arrived at the guest house. Officer Ali, a father himself, found Brenda and Silvia clinging to each other. In total, 20 girls were rescued. Because the victims came from 15 different regions, the investigation was complex—but Ali and his team were determined to bring justice. Thanks to HTI’s support, and a thorough investigation, Anita and her accomplice were arrested and charged, and their assets were seized.
Brenda, Silvia, and the other survivors were placed in aftercare, where they could begin healing. What started as a nightmare ended with hope because Ugandan police officers and investigators were equipped and supported by HTI to serve justice.
*names and photos have been changed to honor and protect the privacy of the survivors in this case.
“From everyone who has been given, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” Luke 12:48
