Dear Friends,

As we enter a new year, I’d like to share some wonderful highlights with you from the Foundation’s activities in 2011.

We have topped $123 million in donations to the Foundation for 2011! This compares to 2010 when donations were approximately $60 million. This is the second largest gift total in the Foundation’s history. Staff has been very busy handling year-end giving and several major estate gifts, which accounted for much of the increase.

Total grants for the year 2011 were $83 million. This, too, is a record and reflects the Foundation’s growing value to Oregon.

As most of you know, the new year brings a new role for me, as I transition from president to strategic advisor to the Foundation. There has been a warm showing of support for the Foundation during this CEO transition year as hundreds turned out for “thank you, Greg” receptions throughout the state. The events have been celebrations of OCF’s service to communities.  

And speaking of transitions, Max Williams, OCF’s new president, has been busy meeting with board members to be prepared to start his new job on January 31.

This has been a great last year for me – one that confirms my faith in the deep generosity and compassion of Oregonians and the enduring role of OCF.

A very special thanks from me to you for allowing me to serve as president the past 24 years. It has been a unique privilege!

Best wishes for the New Year,

Greg