ONE FAMILY'S LEGACY OF GIVING

Giving back to the community is central to the Nelson family's way of life.  Pam and Spence Nelson of Highland Village raised three boys in the LISD schools, and along the way, have given generously both in time and talents.

Marcus High School is the most recent recipient of the Nelson's generosity.  They donated $10,000 through LEF to support library upgrades, as well as a student centered interactive technology initiative, on the MHS campus.

Although the Nelsons no longer have children in LISD, Pam and Spence, as well as their boys, continue to give back.  We asked Pam if she'd be willing to share the "why" behind her family's philanthropic spirit.  The following is in her own words...

"At our house, we have instilled in our boys giving back to the community.  We hope we have been role models to them as they watch us give, not only monetarily, but in time and talents. 

My middle son Scott is autistic and has a very kind and generous heart.  He has a part time job at Target and often wonders why they give him paychecks, as he is just doing his job and doesn't need the money.  He is very aware of the time I spend with LEF and asks lots of questions.  In the past, he has gone with me to award grants when they have been to teachers he had during his LISD experience.  He has always wanted to give to the kids and has now saved enough money to make that happen.  He is starting a term endowment in his name with $2,500, which Spence & I will match.

My youngest son Jimmy is a junior at SMU.  He also knows of the family's commitment to LEF.  Recently, I was heading to Heritage Elementary's Senior Breakfast as he arrived home, and I mentioned that Janet Davis (his 2nd grade teacher) would be there.  We reminisced, and he asked if there was still a scholarship in her honor where he could donate.  He wrote a $500 check. Spence & I matched his donation, as well. 

Several years ago, Spence & I started a scholarship in our boys' honor.  All three received excellent educations in LISD, and this was our way of always remembering that.  We want to continue to grow that scholarship in the years to come. 

We hope our guys will always give back to their community and be thankful for what they have."

Philanthropy often begins in the home, and the size of your gift is less important than the continued act of giving.  Through LEF, donations of all sizes make a difference to the students and teachers of LISD.

To learn more about LEF and the giving options available, please contact LEF Development Director Mary Worthington at 469-948-2013 or by e-mail.  Additional information on LEF programs also can be found here.