2020s

• The first next generation family members joined the board of directors representing Generation 6 of Kempner descendants (2020).

• The Fund approved the following strategic changes: using citywide outreach metrics and data and community voice to inform grantmaking, develop a more focused grantmaking strategy, and embrace a trust-based philanthropy approach (2020).

• The Kempner Fund signed and adopted the Council of Foundations Pledge of Action: Philanthropy’s Commitment During COVID-19. By doing so, the HEKF converted all grants to unrestricted general operating support, accelerated payments to grantees, and contributed to community-based emergency response funds (2020).

• The Galveston County Recovery Fund (GCRF) was twice reactivated in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic and in response to the February 2021 Texas Winter Freeze that resulted in blackouts and power grid failures in Galveston and across the state.. The Fund participated as a member, funder, and began annual contributions to the Recovery Fund to build the funding pool in advance of the next disaster (2020-2021).

• The Fund adopted its 3 core organizational values: Collaborative Navigation, Pursuit of Equity, and Generational Impact. (2021)

• The Fund developed values-aligned mission and vision statements (2022).

• The Fund approved a new philanthropic strategy including 5 new program areas with priorities: Empowered Youth, Resilient Island, Vibrant Culture, Stable Housing, and Strong Nonprofits (2023).

• The board of directors elects to mark 2024 as a “Transition Year” where eligible long-term grantee partners will be awarded funding (2024).