Amy Allen Goes the Extra Mile to Leave Legacies of Love

By Melissa Orsak

Amy Allen planned for a bright future when she opened the luxurious Hyatt Regency in Beaver Creek, Colorado. However, she didn’t know 31 years ago that she would soon be providing incredible opportunities for others walking a different path, following the suggestion of a neighbor. Allen’s neighbor, George More, a former President of the Austin Community Foundation, recognized Allen’s drive and compassion and encouraged her to apply for a temporary Executive Assistant job at Austin Community Foundation. Little did Allen know that this “temporary” position would stretch into a 31-year career path that placed her front and center and in charge of the Foundation’s day-to-day operations. Despite the demanding workload and virtually nonexistent benefits, Allen found her passion and being part of the vision of the Foundation more than made up for any shortcomings.

The Austin Community Foundation is a non-profit charity that connects donors with local and sometimes global needs. Donors can be individuals, families, or businesses who want to give cash, stock, real estate, or other assets to help alleviate contemporary issues. The Foundation coordinates plans for immediate and future donations. The Austin Community Foundation was established in 1977 by Fannie Gray Leo’s bank trust officer after she left 5% of her estate, worth $30,000 at the time, to create a foundation according to Fannie’s detailed plans. Fannie’s goal for this new Foundation, the Austin Community Foundation, was to provide for community needs today and tomorrow.

Allen rose to the challenge of running the day-to-day of the Foundation. Even after giving birth to her first child, she showed great courage by returning to the office just three days later. Running the Foundation was not an easy task, and there were times when she tried to resign. However, the Foundation recognized her value and extended any necessary support to make her life easier. Allen’s request was simple- more help! And so, the Foundation began to expand. Trevor Allen, Amy Allen’s husband, also provided her with the support she needed. He has been her hero, standing by her side every step of the way. Trevor’s contribution to the Foundation and his willingness to give his time and energy to her and their children have been invaluable.

When asked why Allen continued down a complicated path, Allen said, “It has not been an easy road and not always fun, but always worth it! The people I have met and the many times I have had an ‘ah ha’ moment of being in the right place at the right time has been overwhelming. It has been a purpose-driven life.” Allen takes pride in her work and feels a sense of stewardship with donors as she creates personal relationships with them. Allen’s commitment helps the Austin Community Foundation provide a culture of giving that is passed down generationally and sets an inspiring example for families and organizations. Allen’s work is never monotonous as she works with various donors and learns of their moving stories and desires to bless the community. The donors inspire her to keep going.

The Austin Community Foundation is dedicated to creating a legacy for the living and the deceased. Over the past 46 years, The Foundation has grown from a team of 2 to 26, and its funds have increased from 85, totaling $5.3 million, to more than 1300, totaling nearly half a billion. They have awarded over half a billion dollars in grants, and nearly 40% of their assets are endowed perpetually. These achievements are thanks to the donors, board members, nonprofits, and the passionate team at Austin Community Foundation.

“My ACF story will end at the end of this year. Nobody knows what tomorrow will bring, but we know today is the first day of the rest of our lives.” Amy Allen’s story with the Austin Community Foundation will never truly end, and yours can live on with the Foundation’s help. Allen has poured her heart and soul into helping others leave their mark on the world, and her immeasurable impact will be felt forever. Contact the Austin Community Foundation today and discover how you can make your mark, leaving behind a legacy that transforms lives and blesses the community.