Dallas Fort Worth Nonprofit Business Journal

Category: General

  • From the Top finds new home with KERA

    From the Top finds new home with KERA

    America’s largest national platform celebrating young classically trained musicians is being acquired by the North Texas public media station.

    KERA, North Texas’ public media station, and From the Top, the nonprofit and radio broadcast program dedicated to celebrating young classical musicians, are thrilled to announce that From the Top will become part of KERA in 2026.

    “It’s a real honor that From the Top is joining KERA as part of our ongoing growth and innovation strategy,” says Nico Leone, President & CEO of KERA. “Our missions are so aligned — we, too, are committed to supporting and celebrating young classical musicians here in North Texas and beyond through our many services. More than anything, we want From the Top listeners, alumni and fans to know that we are committed to sustaining and expanding this shared mission, and you can expect the same incredible content From the Top has produced for years.”

    “For decades, From the Top has amplified young musicians across the country through its roots in Boston, MA,” says Gretchen Nielsen, Executive Director of From the Top. “We’re very proud of our legacy, and now — as we look to the future — we are excited to bring our mission to a homebase in North Texas with its incredible arts community.”

    From the Top recently celebrated 25 years of mission-driven programming. The radio program, carried on nearly 200 stations nationwide, has evolved into an acclaimed platform for today’s young classical musicians. In addition to the radio broadcast, each year From the Top helps launch the careers of young musicians through its fellowship programs, educational programs and awards. In 2024, From the Top began searching for a new foundational home and approached KERA with the opportunity.

    “We see a value in being rooted in a thriving local community with the support of a sustainable and respected public media station,” says Nielsen. “We sought out KERA given their legacy in the public media community and the trust they have from North
    Texas. We see so much opportunity ahead and we’re very excited to be moving forward with them as partners and peers.”

    For KERA, From the Top is a perfect alignment with its commitment to supporting the arts and classical music. In 2023, KERA welcomed classical music station WRR 101.1 FM to its portfolio of services, joining a robust suite of arts services including KXT 91.7 FM, arts reporting from KERA Arts and arts programming on KERA TV. KERA is also the home of “Think” with Krys Boyd, a nationally syndicated radio program and podcast.

    “KERA has been a champion of the arts since its earliest days,” says Leone. “It is such a natural fit to welcome From the Top and help foster and support the next generation of young musicians.”

    From the Top will officially join KERA in May of 2026 and continue to be distributed by NPR. While the national nonprofit will be based in North Texas, From the Top’s many programming offerings — radio broadcast, digital offerings, fellowship program — will continue to connect with and celebrate young musicians across the country. Additionally, From the Top will help expand KERA’s work in education and collaborations with local arts organizations.

    KERA’s acquisition of From the Top also comes at an exciting time in the public media station’s history. In March, KERA will break ground on a community-centric headquarters, located on the Katy Trail. The new facilities for the 65-year-old organization will provide performance space, recording studios and more — not just for KERA and From the Top team members, but the North Texas community at large. KERA is also planning to launch a local daily news program on KERA News in the spring.

    From the Top can be heard Saturdays at 12 p.m. on WRR 101.1 FM. For more information about From the Top, visit www.fromthetop.org. For more information about KERA, visit www.kera.org. For media inquiries, reach out to media@kera.org.

    Source: Press release

  • Child Care Associates earns 2025 Great Place To Work Certification™

    Child Care Associates earns 2025 Great Place To Work Certification™

    Child Care Associates was Certified™ by Great Place To Work® for the 6th year in a row. The prestigious award is based entirely on what current employees say about their experience working at Child Care Associates. This year, 73% of employees said it’s a great place to work – compared to 57% of employees at a typical U.S. company.


    “We are thrilled to receive this certification. It’s more than just a badge – it’s a testament to the commitment and heart of our team,” said Kara Waddell, President and CEO. “We’re grateful to our staff for being open about their experiences, and we’re excited to share what’s working, identify opportunities for growth, and continue building a strong, supportive community for our employees, children and families.”


    Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation.


    “Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience,” says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, the Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work. She emphasizes that Certification is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. “By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that Child Care Associates stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees.” According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work, and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company’s profits and have a fair chance at promotion.

    Source: Press release

  • Folds of Honor North Texas Gala raised over $4.6 million for educational scholarships

    Folds of Honor North Texas Gala raised over $4.6 million for educational scholarships

    On November 15, 2025, the Folds of Honor North Texas Gala brought more than 1,700 guests to the field at AT&T Stadium, raising over $4.6 million for educational scholarships.

    A highlight of the evening was a fireside chat between former President George W. Bush and Folds of Honor CEO and Founder Lt. Col. Dan Rooney, whose conversation on service and sacrifice set a powerful tone for the night. The program also featured a moving testimony from Ginger Gilbert Ravella, widow of Major Troy Gilbert, whose children have received five Folds of Honor scholarships.

    The event included a VIP reception, field-level dinner, and a high-energy live auction with one-of-a-kind items that drove enthusiastic bidding, helping push the gala to a record fundraising total.

  • KERA welcomes the StoryCorps mobile booth to Fort Worth

    KERA welcomes the StoryCorps mobile booth to Fort Worth

    KERA welcomes the StoryCorps mobile booth to Fort Worth, Texas this holiday season to capture the unique stories of North Texas.   

    StoryCorps is a national nonprofit dedicated to recording, preserving, and sharing the stories of everyday Americans. Since 2005, their mobile booth — a refurbished Airstream trailer — has toured the country, partnering with public media stations, to help people have meaningful conversations about their lives. In a StoryCorps interview, two people record a discussion with one another about who they are, what they have learned in life and how they want to be remembered. A trained StoryCorps facilitator guides them through the process and with participant permission, a copy is archived at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress for future generations to hear. North Texans will also hear recorded stories shared locally.

    “We’re very excited to welcome StoryCorps to Fort Worth,” says Nico Leone, President & CEO of KERA. “Convening conversations that help us connect with one another is at the core of KERA’s mission, and StoryCorps is such a great embodiment of that. Not only are we excited for their visit, but we’re thrilled to share these recorded conversations with our local listeners for months and years to come on KERA News.”

    For its Fort Worth visit, the StoryCorps mobile booth will be located outside of Keith House — a contemporary gathering space on the Trinity River — from December 3-19.

    “Keith House was designed as a space for North Texans to reflect and find connection,” says Adelaide Leavens, President of the Meta Alice Keith Bratten Foundation. “That goal is so aligned with StoryCorps’ mission, and we couldn’t be more thrilled be a part of helping to capture and preserve voices from Fort Worth and North Texas.”

    Reservations to record are now open and available at StoryCorps’ website. Though reservations often move quickly, you can stay connected to StoryCorps’ visit by following @keratx and @storycorps. Support for StoryCorps’ Fort Worth stop comes from the Rainwater Foundation.

    Source: press release

  • The Graduate Enterprise Network Foundation relocates from Michigan to Texas

    The Graduate Enterprise Network Foundation relocates from Michigan to Texas

    The Graduate Enterprise Network Foundation (GEN), founded by Eliz Cox (MBA ’23, SMU Cox School of Business), has relocated its headquarters from Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Dallas, Texas. The move marks a decisive shift from institutional stagnation to civic responsibility—positioning Dallas as a national model for leadership and innovation.

    “GEN’s relocation is not just a move—it’s a statement,” said Cox. “Where others chose stagnation, Dallas chose responsibility. GEN exists to prove that prosperity is not about scale alone, but about activating human potential at every level of the economy.”

    Michigan illustrates what happens when numbers rise but outcomes fall. Despite spending more per pupil than 41 other states, Michigan ranks among the bottom 10 nationally in educational outcomes (Bridge Michigan; Michigan Advance). The counselor shortage underscores the strain: Michigan averages 598 students per school counselor, the second-highest ratio in the nation, according to Axios and NPR/Michigan Public.

    Even institutions once viewed as anchors of civic vitality are under pressure. Bloomberg Law reported that Albion College’s bonds were downgraded due to liquidity concerns, and the Detroit Free Press noted that the Michigan Attorney General’s office initiated an inquiry into Albion College’s use of donor funds. Public reporting has also highlighted governance disputes that have led to leadership turnover at several Michigan institutions, reflecting the broader headwinds facing tuition-dependent liberal arts colleges nationwide.

    Dallas, by contrast, has embraced growth. The city combines low taxes with AAA bond ratings, according to Dallas County, and has become a magnet for corporate relocations and investment. The Dallas Regional Chamber has documented how business and community leaders are channeling investment into Southern Dallas, proving that prosperity can expand beyond traditional centers. Dallas demonstrates what happens when civic leadership accepts responsibility: talent is attracted, capital is mobilized, and innovation accelerates.

    GEN’s Dallas pilot, GENiusPath, is designed to convert graduate talent into measurable business results. By embedding MBA candidates into 10–20 consulting projects with small- and mid-sized enterprises, the program delivers dual impact: immediate strategic support for local businesses and the creation of durable leadership pipelines for the future. “GENiusPath translates vision into practice,” Cox said. “Each project is both a near-term economic intervention and a long-term investment in America’s competitiveness.”

    The relocation is not just a regional story—it reflects national urgency. According to the IMF World Economic Outlook (April 2025), the United States produces $30.5 trillion in GDP compared to China’s $19.2 trillion. Yet scale alone is not prosperity. The World Bank reports U.S. GDP per capita at $85,800 versus China’s $13,300, with purchasing-power parity widening the gap further: $89,100 for the U.S. versus $29,000 for China. America’s edge depends not just on size, but on productivity, innovation velocity, and leadership density. Without bold intervention, even the strongest headline numbers will not secure broad prosperity.

    GEN’s relocation signals more than a change of address. It is a declaration that prosperity cannot be measured by size alone—it must be built by activating human potential in every community.

    If you believe in activating talent, strengthening businesses, and proving that America can out-produce, out-innovate, and out-lead the next 250 years of global sustainability, connect with me, message me directly, or reach out at eliz@gradbank.org

    Source: press release

  • Lowe’s grant to support Trinity Habitat for Humanity efforts to repair homes

    Lowe’s grant to support Trinity Habitat for Humanity efforts to repair homes

    Trinity Habitat for Humanity announced it has received a $68,000 grant from Lowe’s to help repair eight homes in Fort Worth.

    Funding and Lowe’s red vest associates will support Trinity Habitat for Humanity’s efforts to make homes safer and healthier and create stronger communities. With the support of the grant, red vest associates will participate in Cowtown Brush Up and paint five homes in the Como area and will provide landscaping work for the new Allen Village townhome development near JPS Hospital. The Lowe’s grant will support the Preserve A Home program’s Aging in Place initiative to support healthy homes for seniors to age in place with dignity.

    On October 1, 2025, 100 Lowe’s red vest associates from Fort Worth, North Dallas and South Dallas will roll up their sleeves and join Trinity Habitat for Humanity to improve homes and give back to the community.

    The projects are part of Lowe’s commitment to deliver 10 million square feet of impact in communities nationwide this year. The initiative includes enabling 20 local Habitat affiliates to complete 200 repair projects across the United States. Lowe’s continued partnership with Habitat for Humanity International supports home repair and preservation efforts in owner-occupied homes, helping neighbors safely remain in the homes they cherish. Since 2003, Lowe’s and Habitat have worked together to help more than 18,000 people build or improve a place to call home.

    Source: press release

  • North Texas Nonprofit Institute releases 2025 North Texas State of Nonprofits and Philanthropy Report

    North Texas Nonprofit Institute releases 2025 North Texas State of Nonprofits and Philanthropy Report

    The North Texas Nonprofit Institute (NTX NPI) has released its third annual North Texas State of Nonprofits and Philanthropy report, providing a comprehensive overview of the region’s nonprofit landscape, including trends in service delivery, fundraising, employment, and sector-wide impact.

    This year’s findings reaffirm North Texas as one of the most active and engaged nonprofit regions in the nation. With over 45,000 registered nonprofit organizations, North Texas represents more than one-third of all nonprofits in Texas. The sector also plays a significant role in the regional economy, employing over 150,000 nonprofit professionals — accounting for one in every 25 private-sector jobs. Additionally, thousands of North Texans serve on nonprofit boards or volunteer regularly, demonstrating a strong culture of civic engagement.

    For the first time, NTX NPI conducted a regional survey of nonprofit leaders, uncovering both promising momentum and pressing challenges. Nearly 80% of respondents reported an increase in demand for services, yet fewer than half indicated they were able to meet most or all of that demand.

    “These findings highlight both the resilience and strain within our sector,” said Dr. Colton Strawser, Executive Director of the North Texas Nonprofit Institute. “Nonprofit leaders, staff, and volunteers continue to show up every day with passion and dedication, even when resources are stretched thin. Their work is a testament to the power of mission-driven organizations to bring people together, spark innovation, and provide a voice for those who are too often left unheard.”

    Despite growing uncertainty at the national level, Dr. Strawser emphasized the importance of preparation and collaboration moving forward.

    “With a new presidential administration, ongoing economic uncertainty, and widening fractures within our civil society, the nonprofit sector finds itself once again navigating uncharted territory,” he said. “These forces create both obstacles and opportunities — reminding us of the importance of preparation, adaptability, and collaboration.”

    Looking ahead, NTX NPI is committed to ensuring organizations have the tools to thrive rather than merely endure. “Our commitment is clear: to equip nonprofits with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed not only to endure these challenges but to thrive in spite of them,” Dr. Strawser added.

    The full 2025 North Texas State of Nonprofits and Philanthropy report is available online at https://www.ntxnonprofits.org/sonp.

    To further explore the data and implications for nonprofit leaders, funders, and community stakeholders, NTX NPI will host a free webinar on Wednesday, October 8 from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Registration is available at:
    https://www.ntxnonprofits.org/offers/TgFTeUC6/checkout

    Source: Press release

  • Pro Bono Speaker’s Bureau launched in Dallas-Fort Worth

    Pro Bono Speaker’s Bureau launched in Dallas-Fort Worth

    Free Speakers provides speakers to local groups and nonprofits

    August 8 marks the launch of a new community service project for groups and organizations that need speakers in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Free Speakers, a pro bono speaker’s bureau, provides speakers at no cost to DFW area groups. The new bureau currently has 30 local speakers with more than 50 different topics available.

    “All speakers present programs at no cost,” said Andy Richardson, director of Free Speakers. “This is a community service project that is 100 percent free to groups that need speakers. We’re excited to launch in DFW and know the number of speakers and topics will grow quickly.”

    FreeSpeakers.org is a boon for groups who need speakers for their programs but who have limited (or no) budgets. Groups include libraries, chambers of commerce, Rotary and Kiwanis clubs, special interest clubs, church groups, retirement communities, women’s clubs, men’s clubs, etc.

    “What’s in it for the speakers?” Richardson said. “They are motivated by the opportunity to teach, hone speaking skills, make contacts, convey a message, give back to the community and frequently, all of the above.”

    FreeSpeakers.org serves the community through live in-person seminars and speaking engagements. Rarely do the speakers engage in virtual meetings. However, a lot has changed due to COVID.

    “Our speakers, by nature of presenting their topics and knowledge, are very community service-minded,” Richardson said. “When asked about helping the community by presenting virtually, the speakers overwhelming said yes. They are here to help the community.”

    Since 1996 Free Speakers has been providing speakers to area groups in Chicago. The project has expanded and now includes seven cities: Chicago, Phoenix, Washington D.C., Los Angeles and Orange County, Milwaukee, Indianapolis, and now Dallas-Fort Worth.

    For more information, visit: https://dallas-fort-worth.freespeakers.org/.

    Source: press release

  • Fort Worth YMCA Turkey Trot moves to Downtown Fort Worth

    Fort Worth YMCA Turkey Trot moves to Downtown Fort Worth

    Year-over-year of unprecedented growth have led the 44th annual YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth Turkey Trot to establish a new starting line in Downtown Fort Worth. The updated location is designed to accommodate the race’s ever-growing popularity and the increasing number of individuals and families who make the Trot a Thanksgiving tradition. Taking place for the first time in the heart of the city, the new route will also offer iconic views, as participants pass the Tarrant County Courthouse, Sundance Square, the Trinity River, and, of course, the YMCA’s Downtown Fort Worth Branch.

    The Trot is making the move after two years at The Shops at Clearfork. This year’s starting lines will be located in front of Bass Hall at 525 Commerce St., with the finish line and other activities taking place near General Worth Square in front of the Fort Worth Convention Center.

    Last year, more than 12,000 people, spectators, and pets participated in 5K and 8K races and the children’s Gobbler Trot. Trot organizers say the new location allows the YMCA to welcome more participants, build greater awareness, and continue growing the Trot’s impact for years to come.

    All proceeds from Turkey Trot registration fees support YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth programs that benefit the overall well-being of individuals residing in Tarrant, Johnson, Parker, and Hood counties.

    “The Turkey Trot is more than a fun holiday tradition; it’s a powerful engine for good. It fuels a mission that touches thousands of lives each year,” said Mike Brown, president and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth. “Thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors and participants, this event has helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to ensure access to YMCA programs that change lives, from afterschool care and early education to financial literacy for teens and seniors. It even supports critical health initiatives for cancer survivors and individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.”

    This marks the third year that Texas Health Resources will serve as presenting sponsor for the annual event, which is also supported by Moritz Dealerships.    

    “Texas Health is proud to continue our long-standing affiliation with the YMCA Turkey Trot,” said Jared Shelton, president of Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth. “We believe wellness begins outside our hospital walls, and the Turkey Trot is a perfect way to celebrate health, friendship, and community spirit.”

    “We look forward to showcasing our city to all the families and visitors who make the Trot part of their Thanksgiving tradition,” Brown said. “Every step taken on race day helps someone in our community take a step toward a better future.”

    Turkey Trot volunteer opportunities and additional sponsorship options are available. To learn more or to register as a Trot participant, visit www.fwtrot.org or follow the race on Facebook @FWTROT.

    Source: press release

  • Goodwill® offers free Artificial Intelligence (AI) essentials training

    Goodwill® offers free Artificial Intelligence (AI) essentials training

    Goodwill North Central Texas announced the recent launch of the Google AI Essentials training course. With support from Google.org, this innovative program is available online at no cost to interested learners. 

    AI continues to transform our workforce, reshaping recruitment processes and redefining the skills employers seek. Through this online training, offered at no cost to you, Goodwill is helping to equip job seekers with the tools needed to succeed and stay competitive in a workforce increasingly influenced by AI. The program is open to everyone in the community, including Goodwill employees and those who use Goodwill nonprofit career support services.

    Google’s AI Essentials course teaches people to use generative AI effectively in day-to-day work. In about 6 hours, the course provides practical, hands-on experience using generative AI to help with work tasks, through videos, readings, and interactive exercises. The skills learned can be applied to a variety of roles across industries. After completing the course, participants will earn a certificate from Google to share with their network. Globally, 86% of graduates say the AI skills taught in this course will improve their productivity and/or efficiency in their jobs, and over 80% say these skills will improve their overall job performance.

    Access to this course (valued at $49) is available at no cost to anyone who would like to sign up. Register using the 2025 Digital Career Accelerator’s Google AI Essentials Training Request form.

    “This support from Google.org reflects a shared commitment to fostering workplace readiness and opportunity,” said David Cox, President & CEO of Goodwill North Central Texas. “Together, we are supporting individuals as they adapt, grow and thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.” 

    Source: press release