Second Annual South Central Texas Rural Philanthropy Day Brings Nonprofit Education to Over 200 Participants

On Nov. 3, 206 nonprofit and philanthropic organization representatives gathered at the Randolph Recreation Center in La Grange for the second annual South Central Texas Rural Philanthropy Day hosted by the Fayette Community Foundation (FCF) and the Stanzel Family Foundation (SFF).

South Central Texas Rural Philanthropy Day is a one-of-a-kind annual professional development conference designed to alleviate the strain on our local nonprofits by building their capacity and strengthening their relationships with a variety of funders in our rural area. Nonprofit staff, volunteers, and board members alike came together to learn more about building internal capacities in areas such as governance, grant writing, strategic planning, and marketing. Philanthropic organizations from all over the state including foundations, corporations, banks, and individuals participated in the afternoon “Funder Roundtables” session. Here, funders and nonprofits were able to learn from each other and discuss solutions to the unique challenges our rural communities face.

“Everyone attending today, whether representing a nonprofit or funder, does such good work for rural Texas,” Said Cheryl Pekar, Stanzel Family Foundation CEO and Co-Chair of the event, in a written message in the event program. “Our intention with South Central Texas Rural Philanthropy Day is to empower you and help your organization grow.”

Of the 206 attendees, 72 nonprofit organizations and 35 funder organizations were represented. Participants joined from all over the state, with the furthest nonprofit traveling from as far as Odessa, Texas, 398 miles away.

Fayette Community Foundation Board Member and event Co-Chair, Reenie Collins, said on the day of the event, “We are so excited to bring a day of continuing education, resources, and networking to the nonprofit leaders in our rural communities. The work each of you do as leaders, board members, and funders in our communities are what makes our small Texas towns such vibrant and caring regions.”

The evening before the conference, 65 participants joined the Fayette Community Foundation for a Welcome Reception at the Historic Casino Hall in La Grange. The Welcome Reception provided the opportunity for attendees to check in early, network with other professionals, sample wine from local wineries, and enter a raffle to win gift cards to local restaurants, wineries, and Apple AirPods.

“I would like to extend a big thank you to your talented team and the Fayette Community Foundation and Stanzel Family Foundation for sponsoring this incredible event. This event allowed us to connect with like-minded individuals and gain valuable insights into how we can better serve our communities,” said Ray Langlois, Founder and CEO of Everyone Thrives Consultant Services.

If you or your organization would like to sponsor or participate in South Central Texas Rural Philanthropy Day in 2024, contact Ashleigh Parks at info@faycofoundation.com.