John Lewis was a founding member and the first board chairman of FCF.  He served as secretary of the Board of Directors before his passing.  Mr. Lewis encompassed the spirit of FCF by continually striving to improve Fayetteville and the Northwest Arkansas region through philanthropic endeavors.  Through the John Lewis Memorial Fund, the FCF hopes to carry on John's commitment to improving Fayetteville and surrounding communities.

"By naming FCF's unrestricted fund for John, we hope to continue the caring, philanthropic spirit in which he lived his life.  He embodied a true selfless community leader.  His enthusiasm for Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas will be missed," said current board chairman Jim Smith.

Realizing the importance of a flexible source of grant dollars, John made the first contribution to start the unrestricted fund late last year.  In his characteristically humble manner, John wanted to let the Board of Directors decide on an appropriate name for the fund.  It was his hope that his initial contribution to the fund would inspire others and that the fund would grow to be a real difference maker for our community. 

Memorial contributions to the fund are being accepted and can be mailed to FCF at P.O. Box 997, Fayetteville, AR 72702. 

The Fayetteville Community Foundation was established in November 2003 to help build philanthropy in Fayetteville and surrounding communities.  The Foundation serves as a resource for comprehensive charitable gift planning, establishment of donor advised funds and grant making for donors and non-profit organizations.  Since 2003, the Foundation has grown to $1.5 million in assets and has awarded over $315,000 in grants.

All contributions to the Fayetteville Community Foundation and its funds receive the maximum tax deductions allowed by the IRS.  For information about the John Lewis Memorial Fund, the Fayetteville Community Foundation or to establish a fund, please contact Becky Brink at (479) 444-6880.