Our Mission: Philanthropy

A Guest Blog by Addysen Dillard

Philanthropy is a silent hero in modern day society, serving all ages and cultures. From big-time organizations to local volunteering, each initiative moves the community forward. Acts of philanthropy are responsible for funding advancements in healthcare, education, environment, and culture. Most are familiar with the YMCA, the Goodwill, St. Judes or Feeding America....the groups that work with those in need to improve their daily life. But outside of the major nonprofits we know, local businesses, museums, and theaters can be philanthropic but they can also benefit from philanthropy. Take the Heard-Craig Center, for instance. The mission of the Heard-Craig is to provide meeting space to 26 non-profit organizations. This Heard-Craig "giving" mission is supported by the generosity of those who provide preservation funding. The funding maintains the buildings which, in turn, benefit the non-profit organizations. It is a true "giving circle" of which the Heard-Craig company is proud to maintain.

Similarly, individuals make as much of a contribution as big nonprofits. While organizations lead the movement of change, it is the responsibility of the community to come together and make the missions a success. Without the donation of time and money from individuals, resources behind these initiatives would not be as plentiful. Philanthropy isn’t just led by official organizations. Communities demonstrate their solidarity during fragile times like natural disasters and raise support for each other around the world, something Texas witnessed after the tragedy of the Kerr county floods in July of 2025.

Philanthropy unites neighborhoods in coming together and building relationships while also investing in the future. If you or someone you know would like to support the future of a historic non-profit center that has provided a home to 26 other non-profits for 56 years, then call the Heard-Craig Center at 972-569-6909 and help light the way for a bright future. If your group prefers volunteering to funding, then contact Lynn Mayle, the Heard-Craig Volunteer Director at volunteers@heardcraig.org.

Have a magical 2026.