Woodforest Charitable Foundation Marks 20 Years of Impact with over $41 Million in Donations to Charities

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- It could happen to any of us when you think about it. Misfortune caused by a layering of compounding situations, such as a serious health diagnosis followed by a job loss. Child abuse, teen loss of parents, homelessness, lack of access to basic healthcare, food insecurity, elderly isolation … this is where the value of the missions of so many non-profit and charitable organizations comes into play by offering a helping hand, an encouraging word, and a path forward.

One such nonprofit is Woodforest Charitable Foundation (WCF). The foundation proudly commemorated its 20th anniversary and ITD giving of $41,281,683 during its Charity Partnership Donations gathering with a luncheon held May 9, 2025, at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center. Of the more than $6.2 million awarded among 220 deserving charities this year, over $1.5 million in gifts were presented to 56 local and regional nonprofits from the Montgomery and Harris County areas at the luncheon.

The foundation gives back to communities in many ways and is dedicated to enriching lives and communities through partnerships and funding of qualifying 501(c)(3) organizations addressing a variety of needs through social service programs.

The Woodforest Charitable Foundation was founded in 2005 by Woodforest National Bank and is headquartered in Montgomery County, Texas. For two decades, it has forged meaningful partnerships with 501(c)(3) charitable organizations across 17 states in the markets served by the bank, distributing more than $41 million in support. These vital funds are provided by an annual endowment gift from the foundation’s primary donor, Woodforest National Bank, along with contributions raised through the spirited fundraising efforts of 750 bank branches.

The charities supported by the foundation address community initiatives such as hunger relief, housing, healthcare, education, mental health, neurological research, child advocacy support, family crisis intervention, temporary housing for homeless families, senior food assistance, and veteran initiatives.

During the luncheon, leaders from each of the nonprofits in attendance took the stage to receive a significant donation presented by Kim Marling, Executive Vice President of Woodforest Charitable Foundation, and to highlight the powerful impact of their organization’s mission.

The room was filled with over 140 guests, comprised of charity representatives along with Woodforest’s executive team, board members, and bank employees, many of whom serve on the boards of charitable organizations, exemplifying the extraordinary dedication to the shared goals of the foundation.

Kim thanked the charities and supporters of the foundation for their collective efforts, which have transformed countless lives across many communities. She shared the stage with her husband, Robert Marling, who is the President of Woodforest Charitable Foundation and also the Chairman and CEO of Woodforest Financial Group, Inc. Through his vision, the foundation was created as an organization in which Woodforest National Bank would continue its legacy of charitable giving and community support in areas served by the bank.

“It is with profound pride and deep gratitude to gather and celebrate the twentieth anniversary of Woodforest Charitable Foundation,” said Kim. “Our annual charity partner luncheons not only provide an opportunity for collaboration, but also for us to show appreciation for our partnership with these nonprofits and continue to build a lasting legacy of compassion, hope, and transformative change.”

She continued, “Charities play a vital role in addressing diverse needs within our communities, acting as a lifeline for those facing difficult challenges and hardships. With unwavering dedication, they deliver critical resources and sustenance, shelter, health care, education, and crisis support. These organizations not only meet immediate needs, but also empower individuals and families to forge pathways forward toward enduring stability, fostering resilience and hope. They embody the spirit of compassion, strengthen community bonds, and nurture lasting progress, all while elegantly weaving a tapestry of support to meet the myriad of needs within our community.”

Highlighting the luncheon was special guest speaker Damon West, a bestselling author, keynote speaker, philanthropist, and college professor. West inspired the room to “Be a Coffee Bean!”, sharing his energetic and motivational message that the power to change any situation is within each person and not in the outside forces around them.

The recipient charities attending the luncheon included:

• CRISIS - Community Assistance Center, Compassion United, Greater Houston YMCA, Hope Beyond Bridges, The Haven, Interfaith of The Woodlands, Journey Home, Mission Northeast, Montgomery County Women's Center, Mosaics of Mercy, Reflective Life Ministries, and Society of Samaritans.
• HEALTH – Candlelighters, Houston Methodist Foundation, Inspiration Ranch, Interfaith Community Clinic, Lone Star Family Health Center, The Rose Mobile Mammogram, Texas Children’s Hospital- NRI, and TOMAGWA Health Care.
• HOUSING – Family Promise of Lake Houston, Family Promise of Montgomery County, Habitat for Humanity Montgomery County, Habitat for Humanity Northwest Harris County, and Northwest Assistance Ministries.
• HUNGER RELIEF - Abundant Harvest Kitchen, Bread Partners of Washington County, Families Feeding Families, Houston Food Bank, Humble Area Assistance Ministries, Meals on Wheels of Montgomery County, Montgomery County Food Bank, and Pearland Neighborhood Center.
• SPECIAL NEEDS - The Arbor School, Bridgewood Farms, Special Angels of The Woodlands, and Texas Community New Alliance (New Danville).
• VETERANS - Camp Hope – PTSD Foundation of America, Helping a Hero, and Mighty Oaks Foundation.
• YOUTH SERVICES - Angel Reach, Assistance League of Montgomery County, Boys and Girls Country, Child Advocates of Montgomery County, Cassidy Joined For Hope, Children’s Safe Harbor, Love Heals Youth, Yes to Youth (Montgomery County Youth Services), Tamina Community Center, Texas Youth Summit, and Youth-Reach Houston.

The Woodforest Charitable Foundation, established by Woodforest National Bank in 2005, is committed to supporting and investing in the communities it serves. Through dedicated leadership and faithful administration, the foundation provides funding to qualifying 501(c)(3) charities, creating a legacy of commitment to those in need and enriching lives and communities. For additional information regarding The Woodforest Charitable Foundation, call (832) 375-CARE (2273) or visit the foundation’s website at www.wcf.org.

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