The folks over at Bank of America have created “The 2012 Bank of America Study of High Net Worth Philanthropy.” It’s an interesting summary of the “giving patterns, priorities and attitudes of America’s wealthiest households. . . . Results are based on a nationwide sample of 700 households with a net worth of $1 million or more (excluding the value of their home) and/or an annual household income of $200,000 or more.”

Even if your household isn’t Trump level, you just might find some factoids that apply to you or will help you better understand the thinking of philanthropists.

How about an example of the info? Have you ever wondered, “Why wealthy donors stop giving?” Here’s what BofA discovered:

“In 2011, 30% of wealthy donors stopped giving to at least one nonprofit organization they previously supported, among which 27% stopped giving to one organization and 32% stopped giving to two. The following were the top reasons cited for why these donors stopped giving to a particular charity:

• “The donor received too frequent solicitation or the nonprofit organization asked for an inappropriate amount (38%).
• “The nonprofit organization they supported changed leadership or activities (29%).
• “The donor personally changed philanthropic focus or decided to support other causes (27%).
• “The donor’s household circumstance — for example, financial, relocation, employment — changed (22%).
• “The donor no longer was personally involved with the organization (12%).”

What a great way to end the week! The Dallas Institute of Humanities and Culture got not just one but two mega gifts. The two endowment gifts add up to a whopping $1.5M. Yes, you read that right. Thanks to rolling up sleeves and dedication, the following gifts were achieved:

Kim Hiett Jordan and Nelda Cain Pickens

• Kim Hiett Jordan provided a $1M endowment gift to “ensure long-term security for the organization’s most integral position and will be called ‘The Kim Hiett Jordan Executive Director Chair of the Dallas Institute of Humanities and Culture.’ Ms. Jordan also endowed the $50K Hiett Prize in the Humanities, the nation’s largest prize of its kind, which the Dallas Institute awards annually to an emerging leader in the Humanities.”
• Thanks to Margaret McDermott and the McDermott Foundation’s $500K for the Institute’s Louise and Donald Cowan Center for Education, matching funds were matched by Institute donors including Deedie and Rusty Rose, Dr. Nancy Cain Marcus, Betty and Gerard Regard, Ms. Jordan, Betty and Russell Bellamy and the Sapphire Foundation.

According to Kim, “I have been an avid supporter of the Dallas Institute for many years. The work they do there, and have done for over thirty years, is inspirational and it is without doubt one of the true cultural gems in the heart of this city. It was without hesitation that I offered an endowment to fund the Executive Director’s Chair. For me, there is no greater gift I can give Dallas than helping sustain this intellectual haven well into the future.”

Russell and Betty Bellamy and David Griffin

In addition to the Institute’s reputation and devoted supporters, its leadership — Institute Board of Directors Co-chair David Griffin and Board Chair Russell Bellamy — was instrumental in making these gifts come about.

Institute Executive Director Dr. Larry Allums said, “David as Development Chair and Russell as Board Chair have worked tirelessly to solicit funds for the Dallas Institute. Board leadership is crucial for all non-profits, and they are leaders with whom I am exceptionally proud to work. It’s great that they are serving now as Dallas Institute Co-Chairs. They respect and appreciate the generosity of our donors, the backbone of this organization, and all of us are forever grateful to Ms. Jordan, Mrs. McDermott, and our other supporters who have made these present contributions, all of which will help us continue our work in the Dallas area.”

Photo credit: Kathy King

Well, she’s gone and done it again. Lyda Hill just pledged $50 million to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Moon Shots Program.

Lyda Hill (File photo)

“We’re astounded by Lyda Hill’s incredible generosity and humbled by her commitment to cancer patients and their families through this truly transformative gift,” said Ronald DePinho, M.D., president of MD Anderson. “Its broad application across the cancer care continuum of prevention, detection, treatment and survivorship will play a significant role in the success of the entire Moon Shots Program, especially in the areas of early detection, risk assessment and the development of more effective treatments for multiple cancer types.”

What are “Moon Shots”? No, they’re not a new cocktail nor a video game. It’s “an unprecedented, comprehensive assault on cancer.”

The program is made up of six teams of MD Anderson professionals with the focus on the following eight cancers:

• acute myeloid leukemia (AML)/myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS),
• chronic lymphocytic leukemia,
• melanoma,
• lung cancer,
• prostate cancer, and
• triple-negative breast and high-grade serous ovarian cancers.

Lyda’s gift will “support high-priority flagship projects including:

• the lung cancer team’s efforts to develop mire reliable, low-cost screenings that can be available in community clinics, including blood-based biomarkers to detect the disease at its earliest stages and
• the breast/ovarian cancer team’s integrated program to screen patients for BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations and to prescribe new personalized therapies.

“I’m excited about the Moon Shots Program,” said Hill. “It represents a different direction for research that crosses disciplines and offers new hope for breaking cancer’s codes. I’m pleased to offer my support to this historic effort.”

In honor of Lyda’s generosity, “the institution will name the Lyda Hill Cancer Prevention Center.”

The Moon Shots Program will cost $3 billion in the first 10 years.

Santa Claus had better watch out. Lyda is giving him a run for his money when it comes to being the #1 gift giver.

The May 10^th “Dancing with The Smiths” had all the markings of that high school prom — promises of hot babes in tantalizing outfits and quarterback types strutting their stuff. Organizers had impressed with namedropping such folks as “Dancing With The Stars” host Tom Bergeron, former DWTS celebs Mark Cuban and Michael Irvin as co-hosts with DWTS mega-winner Melissa Rycroft Stickland. To add to the ABC-show dancing vet lineup were Olympian Shawn Johnson, Jake “The Bachelor” Pavelka, Sabrina “Cheetah Girl” Bryan and professional dancers Maksim “Max” Chmerkovsky, Cheryl Burke and Tony Dovolani.

It was a bit like a promised reunion of the original “Charlie’s Angels,” “Friends” or “MASH.”

But great expectations were understandable. After all, the Friday night dance-athon was part of the two-day fundraising activities benefiting the Pat and Emmitt Smith Charities. Saturday Emmitt and golfers would participate in the Emmitt Smith Celebrity Invitational at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, if the weather held out.

And that didn’t even include their partnering with the Star Children’s Charity for the Stiletto Strut at Neiman’s Willow Bend earlier Friday, with “a percentage of funds raised from the golf tournament [benefiting] Boys and Girls Club of Collin County.”

But back to Friday night.

All the hoop-la was at the Omni Hotel Dallas’s oversized red carpet. Against a longer-than-long sponsor backdrop, the carpet was divided into two lanes — a slo-mo lane for XVIP’s (Extremely Very Important People) to be interviewed by media, and the HOV lane next to the backdrop where the rest of the 950 guests like Shane Walker with his mom, Joani White and Ron Corning, Barbara and Steve Durham, Sue and  Jimmy Gragg, LeeAnne Locken, Daniel Lewis and JB Hayes walked to get to the reception area, where the live auction would take place.

Steve Eagar

Mark Jones

For the media set-up, KDFW was first in the lineup. After all they were doing a live half-hour show starting at 6 with Steve Eagar and Clarice Tinsley leading off, and Calvert Collins doing follow-up. Producer Mark Jones never stopped moving cables, coordinating the next celebrity to be interviewed and talking to prevent civilians from walking into equipment. At one point Clarice was downright giddy over her dancing with Tony, while Steve appeared to attempt an interview with the mirrored ball.

Steve Eagar, Tony Dovolani and Clarice Tinsley

At the opposite end of the carpet were Pat Smith’s The Broadcast buds Courtney Kerr and Lisa Pineiro. Being last in the media lineup worked out perfectly for the twosome, as they ended up creating a traffic jam playing “Truth or Dare” with celebrities.

To the side, Pat’s stylist Jennifer Cloutier was having a friend adjust the back of her Nicole Miller.

Jasmin Lawrence and Rheagen Smith

Skylar, Elijah and Pat Smith

But just as the celebs arrived, Emmitt entered with son EJ from one end of the lobby. From the other end of the lobby, Pat in glimmering blue, form-fitting gown led the rest of the Smith brood (daughters Jasmin Lawrence, Rheagen Smith, Skylar Smith and son Elijah Smith). Pat and Emmitt come together in the lobby just before the red carpet like the Central Pacific and Union Pacific at Promontory Summit. Only thing missing was the “golden spike.”

While Steve was interviewing the Smith family, three-year-old Elijah decided to crawl around the legs of the family and more or less act his age. In a pass that would have impressed Roger Staubach, Pat picked up Elijah and handed him off to her sister, the equally gorgeous Pam Southall. Elijah’s moments on the red carpet were done. He wasn’t seen again.

Pat Smith and Elijah Smith

Pam Southall

But something was amiss. Sure, there were plenty of super jocks (Marcus Allen, Rolando Blackman, Daryl Johnston, Trent Richards, Charles Haley) that made sportscasters like WFAA’s George Riba and Ted Madden and TackleThis Lauren Barnette (she used to be a “suitcase girl” for “Deal or No Deal”) along the media line happy. But where were the other non-sporty celebrities? Word was being passed. Tom Bergeron was home sick. Cheryl Burke, who had once before been a no-show for a reunion with Emmitt in Dallas, was doing a repeat non-performance. Shawn, Max, Mark and Michael were nowhere in sight.

Marcus Allen

Daryl Johnston

The Bergeron MIA was a problem. He and his ability to ad-lib would be missed. Who would fill his shoes? Luckily, Melissa and Tony were not only available, but they were right at home working together. So, while others were filing along the red carpet and schmoozing in the reception, the production crew, Melissa and Tony were doing last-minute rehearsals and adjustments to the evening’ program. A sticky situation was the intro. It was to be a video of Deion Sanders introducing Tom. Hmm. How would that be handled? More about that later.

Once the reception area was filled to capacity with people cocktailing and posing for photos with two mirrored ball, auctioneer Mike Jones took over. It almost took on a pep-rally atmosphere as the numbers impressed. Why, one item hit a nosebleed level of $50,000.

Tony Dovolani, Melissa Rycroft Strickland, Tye Strickland, Clay and Tiffany McNutt, Sabrina Coates, Jake Pavelka and Carole and Scott Murray

At 7:40, inside the ballroom, Tony, Melissa and her husband Tye Strickland, Tiffany and Clay McNutt, Jake and his bud Sabrina Coates and Honorary Co-chairs Carole and Scott Murray were chatting when a voice over the PA announced, “It’s 20 minutes until the doors open.” Scott asked Melissa, who looked like she had been dipped in barbecue sauce, how she got her tan. She confided that it was a spray tan. Scott was worried whether it was healthy. Melissa assured him it was.

Carole Murray and Melissa Rycroft Strickland

The TV crews finished setting up their equipment. Zona Pidgeon entered the ballroom looking for table #18. She’d been at the event since 6:30 and “can’t stand any longer.” Seems there were no chairs in the reception area to be had.

At 8:05 the voice announced “We’re opening the doors.” The Omni staff stood at attention and one set of doors opened and then closed. The voice reported, “False alarm. Evidently they have one more auction item.” The staff didn’t budge. The “DWTS” types, who had been talking near the doors, moved to the tables near the stage.

At 8:16, the auction was over and the doors were opened with people pouring in like a Best Buy’s Thanksgiving midnight sale. A photographer accidently bumped into Krystal Herrera, resulting in wine being splashed on her black cocktail dress. He apologized. She laughed, saying she was now wearing her drink. Tony continued to be a babe magnet. In black coats a Studio 22 couple wandered around the front of the ballroom in front of the mega-stage. Every now and then the coats slipped open to reveal colorful garments.

At 8:27 the voice returned and gave everyone a five-minute countdown to sit and to silence cellphones. Charlotte and Shy Anderson arrived and said “Hi” to former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Melissa. Tall Charlotte and diminutive Melissa were both in stilettos. Luckily Melissa’s were taller than Charlotte’s, so she at least stood as tall as Charlotte’s chin. Didn’t matter. They were both cute and happy to see each other.

Deion Sanders

The lights dimmed and Deion’s video introduction of Tom rolled. Lights came on and so did Melissa and Tony. They explained that Tom was home sick. Jokes were made about little blue pills. From backstage, Deion entered the stage demanding that he get to introduce the replacement team. He did it after joking with Tony about the dancer’s sharp dressing. Tony reported that his snappy look was due to his wife. To which Deion said, “I can’t say my wife dressed me.” The 950 guests got the joke and laughed.

Dinner was served, but Pat and Emmitt hardly got a nibble. They had people lined up like Baskin Robbins in August just to visit with them.

Jeff Rich and Jan Miller

At 9:25 a video of Pat and Emmitt was shown about their foundation. Honorary Chairs Jan Miller and Jeff Rich and Carole and Scott Murray take over the mic. Now, in fundraising circles it’s well-known that when Jan Miller puts out a request, she’d better get some responses. Otherwise, she’ll start calling out names in the audience, putting them on the spot. So, when the “Ask for Cash” was announced by the honorary chairs, Jan zoned in on familiar faces like an ophthalmologist performing laser cataract surgery. Among those in her scope was Steve Durham, who kicked in $5,000. Jim Keyes, who was sitting table-side with Steve, knew his usual jovial smile had become a bulls-eye for Jan. . . and it worked. Pretty soon, auctioneer Jones joined the foursome on stage for that last push. They were down to the $1,000 ask level. Jones reported that if they could just get three $1,000 contributions, Emmitt would let him share some news. Two folks raised their hands. Just $1,000 was holding the news back. Jones could stand it no longer and gave up. He answered the call for the final $1,000 himself. With that he announced that they had just achieve the evening’s goal of $1M. Emmitt smiled. Everyone smiled.

Now there was real cause for dancing. First on the floor were a barefooted Melissa and Tony, who performed the Samba that had won them the mirrored ball. Despite making it look effortless, it almost hurt to watch them do their moves.

Sergey Korshunov and Michelle Hafle

Then Sabrina and Jake came on stage. They didn’t dance. They introduced two sets of Studio 22 dancers, who made Latin dancing even hotter than a jalapeno. The fourth team was made up of Studio 22 owners Sergey Korshunov and Michelle Hafle. They proved why they’ve earned international titles.

Courtney Kerr, Suzie Humphreys and Lisa Pineiro

Next up were the Broadcast twosome, Courtney and Lisa, joined by Broadcast co-host Suzie Humphreys, who had just flown in for the event. As usual Suzie stole the show, talking to Emmitt one-on-one from the stage. The ladies were there to introduce a surprise performer. Just as the lights dimmed, Emmitt hollered, “Cheryl showed up. . .  my bad.”

Pat Smith

Pat Smith

It was Pat Smith. From the audience, Smith daughter Skylar shouted, “Go, Mom!” And go she did, proving to have more moves than Goldie Hawn in her “Laugh-In” days. She was paired with Sergey, but . . . no offense, Sergey, no one noticed you. Pat’s performance was so wowser that Emmitt jumped on stage and cut in. The two Smiths were a 21^st version of Fred and Ginger, only they made it look hot.

Pat and Emmitt Smith

Emmitt and Pat Smith

Story after story came out of the Granbury and Moore tornadoes about people and their pets. Some folks had put themselves in danger trying to save their animals during the storms. Others were trying to locate their lost critters. And then there were the animal rescue groups that were trying to reconnect the two-legged and four-legged companions.

Arthur Benjamin and friends (File photo)

Since local animal-loving philanthropist Arthur Benjamin became keenly aware of the dramatic problems resulting from severe weather during the Joplin tornado recovery efforts, he created Animal Tornado Relief. Immediately following the Moore catastrophe, he was joined by Melissa Rivers and Taryn Manning to raise money for animal rescue and disaster relief in Moore.

Melissa Rivers*

Taryn Manning*

“The disasters that struck Moore, Oklahoma are emotionally shattering,” Arthur said.

But Arthur also realized that preparation for threatening weather conditions was equally important.

So, this Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Arthur has arranged to have SPCA President James Bias on “For the Love of Dogs” to talk about the group’s recent efforts in helping with recent disasters and to provide advice on “how to prepare for tornadoes with your animals.”

Ironically, Dallas is slated to be hit by another wave of storms Saturday night, so it might be wise to tune in for advice on how to handle a potentially dangerous situation.

* Photos provided by "Animal Tornado Relief"

Despite the threat of tornadoes, hail and the end of the world, The Wilkinson Center’s troops rallied on Tuesday, May 21, at the Dallas Country Club for the first Can Do luncheon.

While guests were pulling up to the club at 10:30, a tornado watch had just been issued. Sure, there were storm clouds in the vicinity, a stillness in the air and an uneasiness lingering from the devastation that hit Moore, Oklahoma, the day before.

And yet, once inside the club, the focus seamlessly shifted from weather threats to Wilkinson accomplishments. Missing a sell-out by just a table or two was quickly forgotten when it was learned that Mr. and Mrs. Anonymous had kicked in $25,000 to the day’s efforts. Why, they even had cookbooks from Highland Park Methodist Church for sale that were adding to the coffers!

Ruth Altshuler and Jim Francis

When the door to the ballroom opened at 11:30, it was obvious that the Wilkinson Center had hundreds of pretty outstanding friends like Debbie and Jim Francis, Ruth Altshuler, Jane Pierce, Carol Goglia, Sarah Losinger, Brett and Sue Ringle, Brent Christopher, Craig Innes, Jan and Fred Hegi and Kate Rose Marquez.

Craig Innes

Having been a part of the Wilkinson effort since its start, Luncheon Chair Joan Eleazer told guests that the day’s goal had been to raise $100,000 and they were at $96,455. She then suggested they could help reach that six-figure mark by making donations in envelopes conveniently left on tables and/or by purchasing centerpieces or the cookbooks. As pens were being pulled out and envelopes filled, a video explaining all that Wilkinson does was shown.

Anne Reeder

Wilkinson Center’s Executive Director Anne Reeder thanked all for supporting this “first-time effort” and then she recognized a friend “who really loves” her — Joan. The test was when Anne told Joan, “I know it’s your busiest time of the year, but could you please chair a brand-new event for me?” When Joan asked, “When is it?” Anne responded, “Three months.” With that a chuckle from those who had organized fundraisers rumbled through the room, followed by applause.

Then without further ado, Anne explained what the “Can Do” theme was all about. Simply put, “All of us that work in the world of non-profits or any of us that care about non-profits know that Dallas is filled with wonderful, generous philanthropists and they are the lifeblood of every non-profit in Dallas. There are some philanthropists, though, that add something really unique. Their intellect, their inspiration, their insight. They don’t just want you to be better. They help you to see new and exciting ways to be better. And that’s what I call entrepreneurship. Today we’re here to celebrate entrepreneurship in philanthropy. And our first award recipients are the McStays.”

John and Ellen McStay

As Ellen and John McStay sat at their table, a video was shown on two mammoth screens in the corners of the room.

The couple were presented two large cans that had a resemblance to a certain brand of soup can. John’s acceptance was brief and to the point encouraging others to support Wilkinson’s efforts. As they returned to their table, their grandson Cash McStay checked out the award.

The next recipient was Highland Park United Methodist Church. Anne admitted that without HPUMC’s support, the Wilkinson Center “wouldn’t be here today.”

Before a video was shown about HPUMC, Anne revealed that the church had committed $1M to “wiping out hunger in our community this year,” and “we just found out that they have committed $100,000 to Wilkinson Center food pantry to update and renovate the food pantry.” Anne smiled like a school girl that food pantry director Steve Thompson’s and her wish list would become reality, especially the 8’ by 8’ freezer. And here most girls want little blue boxes with white ribbons!

Rev. Paul Rasmussen

Accepting the award, HPUMC’s new senior minister Rev. Paul Rasmussen talked eloquently and proved why he was chosen.  He blended sincerity and humor — “We’re a lot better at giving awards than receiving awards.”

He recalled the previous HPUMC ministers and others whose goal had been to leave the city of Dallas better. Then he turned to the McStays, saying that they “demonstrate every single day that you can make a profit without sacrificing the higher calling of making a difference.”

He spotted Ruth Altshuler in the audience and recalled that while attending a philanthropic luncheon he pointed Ruth out to his wife Ashley, who said, “I’ve never been to one of these events where she wasn’t present.” Applause swept through the room, but Paul had the last word. “Ashley looked at him and said either she’s very generous or she’s stalking you.” The applause was replaced with laughter.

Johnnie Hartfield, Joselyn Hartfield, Jazmine Hartfield, Brandy Freeman and Johnathan Hartfield

The final award was presented by Wilkinson Center Assistant Program Director Brandy Freeman to the Hartfield siblings (Jazmine, Johnathan, Johnnie and Joselyn) for overcoming obstacles to achieve their dreams. The foursome represented a success story that inspires the Wilkinson Center staff and supporters. They sought the tools from the Wilkinson Center to get their GEDs, volunteered and created further goals for themselves. At one point in responding to Johnathan’s dream of getting into real estate, Brandy said, “That’s perfect for him because he can sell a blind man sunglasses.”

Family spokesperson Johnathan’s acceptance was brief —“Thank you. I really didn’t plan anything, so I just want to say ‘Thank you all for this great award.’ It is a great honor and I pray that God blesses all of you for what you have done for us and may you reach out to bless others as you have blessed us. God bless you and thank you for this award.”

Angela Gaddis

As if that wasn’t enough to end the luncheon, Angela Gaddis “sang them out.” Within a few bars, all the guests were on their feet clapping along with her singing.

For a first-time luncheon, it raised the spirits, awareness and funds for the Wilkinson Center.

Oh, and if you’re wondering, those envelopes, centerpieces and cookbooks paid off. The take for the day was $100,315.

John and Ellen McStay and Cash McStay

A gathering of eagles will take place at Communities Foundation of Texas from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26. Okay, so maybe not eagles, but Dallas top dogs. It’s the Generation of Generosity: Mayor’s Panel Celebrating 60 Years of Giving.

Tom and Laura Leppert and Mike Rawlings (File photo)

For this discussion, Mayor Mike Rawlings will be joined by past Dallas mayors Wes Wise, Ron Kirk, Laura Miller and Tom Leppert plus former mayor pro-tems/acting mayors Adlene Harrison and Mary Poss. This group has seen Dallas grow thanks to vision and philanthropy for decades.

Thanks to presenting sponsor Neiman Marcus, it’s absolutely free.

Only problemo? The seats are nearly gone, so hustle and get your place. This gathering is a rarity and should be fascinating because there ain’t a quiet one or one without an opinion in the group.

Don Stokes

Leave it to the Dallas Film Society to make some summertime blockbuster news. First DFS President/CEO Lee Papert reports that Lynn McBee is turning over her role as Board Chairman to Dallas producer/ Post Asylum CEO Don Stokes.

Joining Don on the board of directors will be Jim Nugent as treasurer, Terry Schpok as secretary, Tara Lewis as assistant secretary and treasurer and board members Benton Bagot, Brad Berkley, Lauren Embrey, Clare Freeman, Mary Hatcher, John Hersker, Jennifer Houser, Ian McGloin, Ruth O. Mutch, Steve Stodghill, Mersina Stubbs and Carter Tolleson

According to Don, “I have been involved with the Dallas Film Society since its inception. It is an organization I passionately believe in and I am excited about chairing the Board. Our line-up of officers is exemplary. Each and every one of them brings an expertise to the table that can only continue to build the Film Society’s reputation at a local, national and international level.”

Next item of DFS news is the newest members of its board and what a collection it is — three guys and a gal. Sounds like a movie title.

The gal is Ellen Needham Winspear, who was previously on the board. As for the fellows, Lee said, “I am thrilled to announce that Gary Cogill, Mark Denesuk and Harry Hunsicker will all be joining the Dallas Film Society Board of Directors. Their talent, experience and vision will add a unique perspective to the Board that can only help elevate the Dallas Film Society as we enter our eighth year.”

While local movie lovers probably know all these folks, here are some brief bios for your review:

Gary Cogill

Mark Denesuk

Ellen Needham Winspear

• Gary Cogill is an Emmy award-winning journalist, a three-time Katie award winner and producer at Lascaux Films. For 24 years, Cogill served as the film critic for WFAA-TV in Dallas (ABC) and sat down with the biggest names in the business including the likes of Robert DeNiro, Meryl Streep, Stephen Spielberg and Clint Eastwood.  With Lascaux Films, he recently returned from Canada after wrapping principal photography on WORDS & PICTURES starring Juliette Binoche and Clive Owen.
• Mark Denesuk is the managing principal and founder of Commerce House, a boutique advertising and integrated marketing agency in Dallas. Prior to Commerce House, Denesuk spent almost 20 years working at some of the world’s largest agencies on their most prestigious accounts. His agencies included Grey, Young & Rubican, Deutsch, Ogilvy & Mather, Temerlin McClain and most recently he was an executive vice president and operating board member of McCann-Erickson New York. Active in the community, Denesuk currently serves on boards for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas, the Promising Youth Alliance and the Thanksgiving Foundation.
• Harry Hunsicker is the former executive vice president of the Mystery Writers of America and the author of four novels, crime thrillers set in Texas. His fiction has been nominated for a Shamus Award by the Private Eye Writers of America and a Thriller Award by the International Thriller Writers and has appeared in The Best American Mystery Stories of 2011, D Magazine and Texas Monthly.  He currently serves as chairman of the Highland Park Centennial Film Festival.
• Ellen Needham Winspear started her career in the fashion industry before obtaining her graduate degree in Academic Language Therapy from SMU.  She taught at her own private practice, the Oak Hill Academy and The Shelton School with her experience leading her to become involved in the Literacy Instruction for Texas (LIFT). Winspear is renowned for her community involvement. She is a member of the Executive Committee of the Annette Caldwell Simmons School of Education and Human Development at SMU. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Dallas Zoo, is a trustee of the Dallas Opera and serves on the Advisory Council of the Dallas Theater Center.

Photos provided by the Dallas Film Society

The second round of TACA’s Donna Wilhelm Family New Works Fund has just been announced. The three recipients of this year’s $100,000 grant are Second Thought Theatre, Undermain Theatre and Voices of Change.

According to TACA President/Executive Director Rebecca “Becky” Young, “We are proud to announce this year’s three beneficiaries, and we’re excited to see their innovative work come to life and have an impact on a national level. We also applaud and sincerely thank Donna Wilhelm and all of the fund’s supporters for their contributions to support the creation and development of new work in the Dallas community.”

The grants will provide funding for

• Second Thought Theatre will receive $40,000 for the development and performance of “This Present Tyranny” by creators Steven Walters and Erik Archilla. The show portrays a biography of John Wilkes Booth and the highly controversial events leading up to and following the assassination of President Lincoln. Developing the work of Dallas playwrights is a core value for Second Thought Theatre.
• Undermain Theatre will also receive $40,000 for “Abraham Zobell’s Home Movie: Final Reel” by playwright Len Jenkin. The work is about an elderly, bedridden man who escapes from his wife’s care to embark on a final journey, looking back on his life and 70 years of the American century. The production will feature a film made by a local artist, and a jazz and blues score.
• Voices of Change, the Southwest’s premier classical music ensemble, will receive a $20,000 grant for “Tibet Fantasia” by creator Xi Wang. In three movements, the 30-minute piece explores the mysterious land of Tibet, music folklores, distinguished culture and exotic landscapes. The piece will utilize six musicians, projections, dancers and audience participation.

And how were the recipients selected? TACA assembled “14 nationally recognized peer review panelists” to judge the 13 applicants. The panelist included Melanie Rios Glaser, Parisa Khobdeh, Cassie Meador, Roger Brunyate, Kenneth Foster, Max Albert, Kimberly Grigsby, Diane Claussen, Gigi Bolt, Emilya Cachapero, Dean Gladden, Roche Schulfer, Mark Valdez and Paul Walsh.

Established in January 2012, the Fund was created by the Wilhelm family “to support the creation and performances of new work in Dallas County by one or more of TACA’s annual beneficiaries.”

Donna, who launched the program with an initial three-year underwriting, said, “Our hope with these New Works grants is to provide support for a transformational project, one that will serve as a catalyst for the organization to take the next step in their journey of artistic excellence.”

Toss that myth that nobody’s left in Dallas this time of year. Of course, you want proof! How about 400 of the area leaders and mover-and-shakers? That was the scene at the Communities Foundation of Texas’s Generations of Generosity Thursday presented by Neiman Marcus.

Laura Miller

Tom Leppert and Ron Kirk

In addition to celebrating its 60^th anniversary of doing nothing but good for the area nonprofits, the CFT pulled off a first to attract the crowd. They arranged to have the first get-together for public discussion of the Dallas mayors past and present — Mayor Mike Rawlings, former mayors Ron Kirk (1995-2002) Laura Miller (2002-2007) and Tom Leppert (2007-2011).

Wes Wise, Adlene Harrison, Mary Suhm, Laurie Evans, Mary Poss and Mike Miles

And to add frosting to this sweet deal, they also had former Mayor Pro Tems Adlene Harrison and Mary Poss, who actually served as mayor for a period of time, on the front row. Joining the two gals plus former mayor Wes Wise and Dallas Independent School District Superintendent Mike Miles was Dallas City Manager Mary Suhm, who was in her final hours as city manager, with her buddy Laurie Evans.

And that was just a smidgen of the front row!

Jennifer Staubach Gates, Lee Kleinman and Elba Garcia

As the auditorium filled, the boldfacers continued to not just highlight the rows, they were everywhere, everywhere! Like politicos (county commissioners Elba Garcia and John Wiley Price, city council folks Jennifer Staubach Gates and Lee Kleinman, former State Senator Florence Shapiro, Becky Bright, Charlie Terrell, Jeremy Strick, Jill Magnuson, Sarah Losinger, Judy Gibbs, Aimee Sheahan, Jan and Fred Hegi, Ruth Altshuler, Linda Custard, Lottye Brodsky, Bobby Lyle, Regina Bruce, Ward Matthews, Ginger Reeder and mayoral better halves Micki Rawlings and Laura Leppert. Bob Schlegel was there sans wife Myrna. She was with her newest grandchild, a little boy born to daughter Kari Kloewer Monday. Schlegel daughter Kim Whitman was scheduled to deliver a little girl the following Monday. Bob joked that both babies were born on Canadian holidays.

It got so crowded with red-hot types that one guest pulled out a hand fan.

As CFT bow-tied headman Brent Christopher prepared to start the program, the panel got mic-ed up. No hesitation of where to put the wires or ear pieces. This foursome was as familiar with communication set-ups as a TV anchor.

Mike Rawlings, Tom Leppert, Laura Miller and Ron Kirk

Then it was time for the four to discuss the generosity of Dallas during their various tenures. They proved why they had held the keys to the city. Each was articulate and had great anecdotes. Highlights included:

• Rawlings introducing the panel describing Kirk: “He’s a lawyer. Enough said.”
• Kirk: “This job is blocking and tackling.” Because of tight budgets, ‘enhanced’ projects can’t be done without public/private partnerships. Pivotal moment was when Raymond Nasher gave Dallas the sculpture museum. Visiting foreign businessman looked down on the city from a skyscraper and said, “What is that ditch?” When Kirk told him it was the Trinity River, the guest responded, “It may as well be your Berlin Wall.”
• Laura: “Today the Supreme Court shot down the Defense of Marriage Act, and that’s full of humanity and love.” In 2003, Forest City (developers) said you could shoot a cannon off downtown and no one would hear. Where are all the people? Philanthropy started with their redevelopment of Mercantile Building. “This city never fails,” she said.
• Leppert: “We’ve (Tom and Laura) lived in six different time zones.” In Dallas, thanks to private money, progress was made in education — internship programs, scholarship programs, reading programs.
• Rawlings asked why Dallas has such philanthropy. Kirk said, “My first big corporate relocation was Turner Corp. from New York.” People told him, “‘We heard giving was [big in Dallas]. But, Jesus, it is a competitive sport here!”  He recalled 9/11, “After I’d cried all I could and watched TV, I got a call from [Mark] Cuban that night. He gave a $1M donation to widows of all those first responders.” Kirk added that Cuban didn’t want credit.
• Laura: During Katrina, “Someone gives you a check for $100K, $10K …”
• Leppert: “Dallas has no reason for existence … it has bred entrepreneurship, allows the individual to succeed. Like Bobby Lyle. But they want to give back to the community. Like Ron, I had a small company called AT&T that moved to Dallas. AT&T [quickly] put $55M into philanthropy (after we’d spent $5M to get them).”
• Rawlings: “This is city of opportunity. Someone told me there are 18 billionaires in this area. A lot of it is first-generation money. I’ve been impressed with breadth and depth of the faith community in Dallas.”
• Leppert: First Baptist has a $115M investment in downtown Dallas.
• Rawlings asked, “How do we harness all this; what are the next steps?”
• Laura: Connectivity of Arts District, Perot Museum, etc. One tourist asked: “Why aren’t you connected?”
• Ron: “If Dallas has an Achilles heel, that’s (education). Look at the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China); each has 600M people living on less than $2/day.” He told of meeting a young man in Africa who said, “If you speak many languages, you’re poly-lingual. If you speak two, you’re bilingual. If you speak one language, you’re an American.”
• Leppert: Big ideas in Dallas. There’s a night and day difference between the Dallas of today and 10 years ago.
• Rawlings: “We’re under-leveraging the time that people want to spend giving back to the community. We have not got the ‘killer app’ that can help.” Next step: figure out how to fund and operate the arts buildings. Better, with more muscle. Here, individual philanthropy drives things, while the business community sits on the sidelines. We need to keep our Jaaps, our Max Andersons.
• Kirk: We need to aim for regionalization of resources. One region needs one police/fire/library system. Not doing so makes us ridiculously inefficient. Harness all this regional power for basic services.
• Rawlings then posed the question, “Are we giving enough?
• Laura: Look at Laura and George [Bush]. They said give just $25 for the Bush library. I think that approach would work. Get more people engaged. Generosity on a regular basis.
• Kirk: Harness technology. Obama specialized in $25 contributions. Give $5, give $25. Go online.
• From the sidelines, Brent reminded the crowd of the amazing success of the CFT’s North Texas Giving Day program that raised more than $14.4M for 929 nonprofits last year on just one day, thanks to involvement by the public at large.

As the time was winding down, Rawlings made a powerful shout-out for the John F. Kennedy 50^th Anniversary program in November, saying, “Mrs. Altshuler is passing the offering plate. . . The whole word is going to be watching.”

Sorta ironic. After all that discussion about the importance of online contributions and involvement by the public at large, there is no place presently on the 50^th Honoring John F. Kennedy website for the public to contribute via credit card, Paypal or whatever. If the organizers need help, bet they could ask the Communities Foundation of Texas. They know how to raise money via the Internet in a colossal fashion.

It’s heartbreaking when there is a death in the family, especially one you were in touch with daily and rather took for granted that it would never end. Despite the sudden end of the daily get-together, it doesn’t mean the impact of that relationship has been lost. Saturday’s death of KISS-FM DJ Kidd Kraddick was simply gut-wrenching. Despite being closer to AARP membership than high school graduation, he was still Kidd, full of life and zeal.

For so many he was the voice they woke up to or drove to work with weekday mornings. Though he was nationally syndicated, Dallas prided itself on being his base of operation with his morning crew for decades.

But as was said before, his death does not mean an end to the relationship that he had nurtured since 1991 with his “Kidd’s Kids” program including “The Glamour Squad.” Like the late Paul Newman’s “Hole In the Wall Gang Camp” program that benefits children with cancer, “Kidd’s Kids” will continue his legacy “to bring joy to thousands of chronically and terminally ill children.”

May his daughter, Caroline, and his radio family take heart that he will be remembered as an outstanding professional and a man whose efforts to help children will live for years to come.

One of the really “feel good” lunches is the National Philanthropy Day Luncheon when The Greater Dallas Chapter of Association of Fundraising Professionals celebrates heroes/heroines within the community.

If you haven’t attended the luncheon, you’ve missed an opportunity to see some of the finest in the area in a neatly run program. There are no lengthy acceptance speeches. Instead, thanks to presenting sponsor KERA, the honorees videotape their comments, walk up on stage, accept their awards, pose for a photo and return to their seats.

That’s why the luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Dallas runs neatly from noon to 1:30. In fact, last year they even got out 10 minutes early!

The reason for all this smart operation is probably because these professional fundraisers have been to so many luncheons that run into tea time.

This year’s Chair Kimberly Humphries and Co-Chair Julia Nicol just announced the honorees who will be accepting awards. It’s quite a crop and includes:

Lyda Hill (File photo)

Forrest Hoglund (File photo)

April Box Chamberlain (File photo)

• Outstanding Philanthropist — Lyda Hill
• Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser — Forrest Hoglund
• Outstanding Fundraising Executive — April Box Chamberlain
• Outstanding Foundation — Andrea-Mennen Foundation
• Outstanding Corporation — Alon USA Energy
• Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy — Ariana Luterman
• Special Recognition Award — Kent Skipper

The great news is that you do not have to be a professional fundraiser to attend. You just have to purchase a ticket or sponsorship and buy yourself a feel-good lunch.

Brent Christopher*

According to Communities Foundation of Texas President/CEO Brent Christopher,

“For North Texas nonprofits and the causes they support, the holidays come three months early. North Texas Giving Day, which is set this year for September 19, generated $14.4 million last year and shattered national giving day records. In all of its four years, the event has infused more than $34 million into the North Texas community. I can’t think of a better example of North Texans coming together in force to support the work of their favorite nonprofits.

“While the spirit of giving day remains the same, several new exciting things are in store for this year:

• “5 a.m. to 6 a.m., “Get Up & Give Pajama Party” at Communities Foundation of Texas at 5500 Caruth Haven Lane, at the intersection of I-75 (breakfast treats supplied, first-come, first-served)
• “7 a.m. to Midnight, Communities Foundation of Texas Donation Station at 5500 Caruth Haven Lane, Dallas, TX at the intersection of I-75
• “11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Communities Foundation of Texas Donation Station includes complimentary showcase performances by several nonprofits. Donors may purchase lunch from local food trucks. A schedule of performers and confirmed food trucks will be updated here.
• “8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., “Giving Day Home Stretch” party with a complimentary champagne toast and showcase performances to usher in late-night donations and also to celebrate CFT’s 60^th anniversary. Event details will be updated here.
• “Up from last year, $1.5 million in challenge funds and prizes are available, including SURPRISE GRANTS, where $15,000 prizes will be drawn and awarded randomly throughout the day.

North Texas Giving Day

“Giving Day’s success could not be possible without the generosity of North Texans that donate and of the donors that make bonus and prize money possible. Bonus funds and prizes have been contributed by Bank of America, Katherine C. Carmody Trust Fund, Communities Foundation of Texas, Community Foundation of North Texas, The Dallas Foundation, Dallas Women’s Foundation, Hunt Consolidated’s Hunt Cares Campaign, Meadows Foundation, Rees-Jones Foundation, Sid Richardson Foundation, Harold Simmons Foundation and an anonymous donor. Thank you to WFAA, The Dallas Morning News, CBS Radio and MySweetCharity for being our media sponsors. Plus, thanks to our expert team at Center for Nonprofit Management for the ongoing commitment to presenting this event.

“Whether online at http://www.DonorBridgeTX.org or in-person at Communities Foundation of Texas Donation Stations, please join me Thursday, September 19 in giving to the nonprofits that make North Texas a great place to live!”

* Graphics provided by Communities Foundation of Texas

North Texas Giving Day

It’s not often. In fact it only happens once in a leprechaun’s dream. But the MySweetCharity team got together and agreed on something. Because the purpose of MSC is to cheerlead efforts to support area nonprofits, the decision was made to make a full-court press effort for the 2013 North Texas Giving Day.

No, before you naughty types start going to the skeptical side of life, you need to know that no $ traded hands to get MSC to do this. Why MSC’s top elf didn’t even get a worn-out bow tie from Communities Foundation of Texas’ Brent Christopher.

We love this program because it gives everyone the chance to be a philanthropist with even the slightest donation.

So, to rally the troops, we’re going to publish weekly posts from groups that benefit from this one-day, hey-day for nonprofits in which every $ donated is matched.

Again, let’s emphasize this point. MSC only benefits from the nonprofits blowing out past records, telephone lines and online efforts. Queenie loves nothing more than creating havoc over at CFT. The old gal did the cutest little jig when the phone lines and online services cratered two years ago.

BTW, you may be surprised by the groups and programs that will benefit from the September 19th sunrise to late-in-the-night marathon.

Enough said. Let the North Texas Giving Day Booster series commence on MSC. Who knows? You just may learn about a group that even you have never heard of and are willing to share a buck or two.

My Possibilities*

“My Possibilities is a 501(c)3 organization that is the only program of its kind in the U.S. providing continuing education and vocational training for adults with cognitive disabilities. We are non-diagnosis specific and currently serve HIPsters (Hugely Important People) with Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, William Syndrome, Prader Willi, Hypoxia and brain injury, among others.

“North Texas Giving Day has helped us to jump-start our growth and become one of the fastest growing programs for adults with cognitive disabilities in Texas. Community awareness about My Possibilities and our mission has grown tremendously in the past couple of years. During our first year of participation (2011) in North Texas Giving Day, we raised $17,200 with 56 donors, and during our second year (2012), we raised $64,624 with 256 donors – over 350% growth in just one year! We hope this year we will experience even more growth so we can continue to offer innovative services to our HIPsters.

“Our HIPsters receive full day training in independent living skills, socialization skills and vocational skills. In addition, our HIPsters are given an opportunity to explore their creative possibilities in the areas of art, music, dance and drama as well as become involved in activities such as book club, bible study, fitness team, “tool time” class, Zumba class and many more.

“In a little over 5 years, we have already served over 300 families and have over 130 adults benefiting from our program each day. Because of our rapid growth, we have outgrown our old location, and recently moved into a brand new facility – which will allow us to expand our services to almost 200 adults per day!

“In addition to increasing the number of HIPsters we can serve, our new facility houses a commercial kitchen, which allows us to teach valuable cooking skills that improves HIPsters’ independence and provides another option for vocational skills training. Another special addition is the first workout facility dedicated to individuals with special needs, which also serves as our classroom for our Health and Wellness curriculum. Our services also benefit from an increase in the size and unique finish of our new Create art room and the opportunities made possible by our outdoor therapy garden.

“We are so grateful to Communities Foundation of Texas for organizing and coordinating North Texas Giving Day.  This amazing fundraising opportunity has had a profound impact on My Possibilities and all of the HIPsters that we serve. We hope that you will join us on September 19 and donate at www.DonorBridgeTx.org or at the Communities Foundation of Texas Donations Stations.”

-By Michael Thomas, Executive Director of My Possibilities

Center for Nonprofit Management*

“As you may have heard by now, it’s that time of year – time for North Texas Giving Day! If your inbox hasn’t already started filling up with Get Up & Give e-mails, get ready. We at the Center for Nonprofit Management (CNM) are excited for a variety of reasons: 1) because we get to take a little bit of credit for making it a success by helping more than 1,200 organizations get registered and ready for the big day; 2) because of the amazing impact it makes on the nonprofit community in North Texas, growing well beyond any of our expectations; and 3) because we are a nonprofit, too, and donations to CNM on Giving Day help us do more towards our mission to build stronger nonprofits.

Katie Edwards*

“As a nonprofit ourselves, we also benefit from the generosity of North Texans on Giving Day. For 33 years, we have been helping to develop great people, who build great nonprofits that connected with great partners, drive great impact in the community. So, what does that mean? We teach classes to thousands of nonprofit board members and staff members each year. Class topics include everything from social media strategies to understanding nonprofit financial statements. CNM’s expert consultants guide nonprofits through strategic planning, tracking and communicating outcomes, executive recruiting and much, much more. We play the role of coach, advisor and teacher and walk side-by-side with nonprofits in their journey towards excellence.

“But, like all nonprofits, we can’t do it without donations and support from the community. By supporting the Center for Nonprofit Management with a gift on Giving Day, you help us help other nonprofits be better, stronger and more successful.

“If you are reading this blog, you are already involved with supporting the charities in our area, but we challenge you to do more!

“Get your credit cards out and be ready for e-mails and tweets from all of your best nonprofit friends asking for your support. And when you make your gifts, remember that every dollar counts, so spread the love and add one or two more organizations to your list this year on North Texas Giving Day. And we wouldn’t mind if you sent some love our way, too, wink, wink.”

-Katie Edwards, Vice President of Programs and Operations

According to Methodist Health System Foundation Robert S. Folsom Leadership Award Co-Chairs Lana Andrews and Natalie McGuire,

Mike and Natalie McGuire and Lana and Barry Andrews (File photo)

“We, along with our husbands, Barry Andrews and Mike McGuire, are chairing this year’s Methodist Health System Foundation Robert S. Folsom Leadership Award, which honors Reverend Mark Craig on Tuesday, September 24, 2013. Rev. Craig just retired from Highland Park United Methodist Church where he was pastor of some notable Dallas residents, including President George W. Bush and Laura Bush (a 2008 Folsom honoree) and Brill and Jason Garrett.

“If you want to score an invitation to the patron party for underwriters contributing $10,000 and above, you’ll be invited to the Garretts’ home on August 27.

Jason Garrett, Mark Craig and Brill Garrett*

“Methodist Health System Foundation President and CEO April Box Chamberlain is thrilled about the evening. She tells us, ‘We are honored that right before Jason Garrett hits the gridiron to coach the Dallas Cowboys, he and Brill will generously open their home to host their friend and pastor Rev. Mark Craig. Mark represents the spirit of the Folsom Leadership Award, and we are honored to celebrate his achievements, while thanking our supporters.

‘Rev. Craig is a passionate leader, an engaging speaker, and an innovative problem solver. Last April, he gave the prayer at the George W. Bush Library opening and has received personal invitations from President Bush on a number of occasions. His accomplishments are many, but he remains humble and focused on doing God’s work.’

“The 2013 Robert S. Folsom Leadership Award Dinner will take place on Tuesday, September 24, at the Hilton Anatole Hotel, Grand Ballroom, from 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. Proceeds from the event will benefit the new Charles A. Sammons Trauma and Critical Care Tower at Methodist Dallas Medical Center. (Those interested in donating to the capital campaign can contact Melissa Ogden MelissaOgden@mhd.com or visit Foundation.MethodistHealthSystem.org/BrightER).

“Methodist Health System serves patients from all walks of life, and it increasingly provides preventative and ambulatory health care services for a growing number of uninsured, underinsured, poor and indigent residents in southern Dallas County. Last year, Methodist Health System provided more than $125 million in charity care, an increasingly disproportionate share of charity care in the Dallas area market.

“It’s time to score a ticket to this winning event. For more information, please visit www.MethodistHealthSystem.org/Folsom or contact Joy Duncan at 214.947.4552 or joyduncan@mhd.com.”

* Photo provided by Methodist Health System Foundation

Queenie just returned from tea with Local Social Empress (LSE). Well, actually they didn’t have tea. Way too hot, don’t you know. They did enjoy a flute or two of adult lemonade. The reason for the get-together was our dear old Queenie had been baffled about something. She had noticed that LSE had not been buying up table(s) for local fundraisers like days of yore.

Had LSE succumbed to a financial diet resulting in her pocketbook becoming anorexic? Was she saving up for a body lift? The last thing Queenie wanted to hear was that LSE had gotten weary of philanthropy.

Queenie, who is as tactful as ground glass, asked between sips, “Why the heck aren’t you on the scene anymore? Why aren’t you and your posse showing up for the charities? Girl, is something terribly wrong, because we really need you front and center.”

Like a child confessing to a priest on the Saturday before Christmas, LSE admitted, “I got tired of buying tickets for my friends to attend events. It was my hope that they would support the charities by at least buying raffle tickets or getting involved with the nonprofit. Instead, they bought new frocks for themselves, sent me beautiful flowers and lovely thank-you notes. So, I decided that it would be best if I simply made donations and let the organization sell tables for people who might benefit from the experience.”

As Queenie tells it, her brow furrowed like a newly plowed cornfield. “My dear LSE, your money is grand, but your presence is equally important. By being there, you’re endorsing the efforts of so many. So, go pick yourself some new friends and return to the rank and file of those on the frontline of Dallas fundraising.”

Queenie immediately left for a severe botox treatment to return her brow to perfection.

The mailbox is getting filled with “Save The Date” cards and good news announcements. The latest to pop in was about the new Charles A. Sammons Trauma and Critical Care Tower at Methodist Dallas Medical Center.

April Box Chamberlain (File photo)

April Box Chamberlain, who heads up the Methodist Health System Foundation, just sent word that the Hillcrest Foundation awarded $500,000 to BrightER Capital Campaign in support of the six-story, 248,000-square-foot trauma facility.

This isn’t the first time that Hillcrest has come through with financial support for Methodist’s efforts “to serve the growing health care needs of North Texas families.” Since 1979 the Hillcrest Foundation has awarded 26 gifts totaling more than $2.8M to Methodist.

“The Trustees of the Hillcrest Foundation believe this project is vital to the Dallas community,” said Debra Phares, SVP, Market Philanthropic Director, US Trust/Bank of America, Hillcrest Foundation. “As one of only three adult trauma centers in Dallas, Methodist Dallas Medical Center is a critical safety-net hospital for all of Dallas.”

The most “ambitions undertaking in Methodist’s 85-year-history,” this $20M campaign was launched with a “lead gift of $5M from the Sammons Dallas Foundation.” It was followed by “significant gifts include support from Pat and Pete Schenkel, the Robert S. Folsom family, John and Nita Ford, and Ashlee and Chris Kleinert.”

With this latest contribution, the campaign has hit the $11.6M mark.

According to April, “Methodist Health System Foundation is sincerely appreciative to Hillcrest Foundation for their many years of generous support. Their recent gift is meaningful to the future of Dallas to ensure that emergency and lifesaving trauma care will be available to serve the needs of all Dallas residents.”

BTW, proceeds from the upcoming 2013 Robert S. Folsom Leadership Award dinner honoring the Rev. Mark Craig will benefit the Trauma and Critical Care Tower.

* Photo provided by Methodist Health System Foundation

According to A Night To Remember Co-Chairs Cindy and Scott Collier and Kara and Ross Miller,

Ross and Kara Miller and Cindy and Scott Collier*

“We are honored to co-chair A Night to Remember benefiting CitySquare and especially to celebrate the 25^th anniversary of CitySquare’s service to the city of Dallas. Co-chairing A Night to Remember again this year has already been an exciting and rewarding experience – starting with the decision as to who would be our featured artist. How do you follow Steve Martin, Jay Leno and Lyle Lovett?  Everyone agreed that Diana Ross would be perfect for such an important milestone for CitySquare. We have been thrilled with the outpouring of sponsorships.

“A Night to Remember produces surprises every year. In 2011, Jay Leno wrote a check back to CitySquare following his performance. Last year, we auctioned a Lyle Lovett autographed guitar that went so well, he signed another and we doubled his gift!

“We and the dedicated host committee for A Night to Remember promise a shimmering evening of wonderful music and of course, surprises, on Friday, September 13th at the AT&T Performing Arts Center Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House. We are anticipating another sell-out but there are seats still available at all sponsor levels.

“All of us working on behalf of CitySquare whole-heartedly believe in CitySquare’s mission and have seen first-hand the positive influence on our city. CitySquare’s programs fight the root causes of poverty and offer a way out and a way up to individuals caught in unfortunate circumstances.

“For CitySquare, A Night to Remember is an important fundraiser. For Dallas, it is a night to stand in support of the great people and work of CitySquare. We invite everyone to come see a legend, to learn about CitySquare’s work fighting poverty in the heart of our city, and to be a part of an evening that will truly be ‘A Night to Remember.’

“For information on sponsorships and tickets, go to www.CitySquare.org/DianaRoss.”

Photo provided by CitySquare