Communities Foundation of Oklahoma: Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Established in 1992, the Communities Foundation of Oklahoma (CFO) is a philanthropic organization dedicated to serving the charitable needs of communities across Oklahoma. Founded by Tom McCasland Jr. and Gene Rainbolt, CFO provides a platform for individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to create charitable funds that support causes they care about. Since its inception, CFO has facilitated over $194 million in grants through 43,843 distributions, impacting more than 45 counties in Oklahoma.

Mission and Vision

CFO's mission is to strengthen communities through thoughtful, deliberately designed charitable giving. The organization strives to be the region’s most trusted resource for growing philanthropy to improve communities by connecting the passions of individuals with the purposes of nonprofits.

Primary Area of Focus

CFO focuses on community development and social and human services, aiming to address the root causes of pressing issues facing Oklahoma. The foundation works with donors to create legacies and long-term, sustainable change, improving the quality of life in all 77 counties of Oklahoma.

Industry Significance

As a community foundation, CFO plays a pivotal role in Oklahoma's philanthropic landscape by uniting people, organizations, and resources to produce significant, lasting impact. The foundation's commitment to collaboration and community engagement enhances its significance in addressing the state's most critical challenges.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Empowering Donors: Assist individuals, families, businesses, and organizations in creating charitable funds that support community causes.

• Addressing Community Needs: Provide grants and resources to tackle pressing issues in Oklahoma communities.

• Sustainable Impact: Focus on long-term, systemic solutions to improve the quality of life across the state.

Specific Areas of Specialization

• Community Development: Support initiatives that enhance the social and economic well-being of communities.

• Social and Human Services: Fund programs that address health, education, and human services needs.

Key Technologies Utilized

CFO employs advanced data management and analytics tools to assess community needs, track grant distributions, and measure the impact of funded programs. These technologies enable the foundation to make informed decisions and optimize resource allocation.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

CFO primarily targets communities across Oklahoma, focusing on rural and underserved areas to ensure equitable access to philanthropic resources. The foundation addresses a wide range of conditions, including educational disparities, healthcare access, and economic development challenges.

Financials and Funding

Total Funds Raised

As of June 30, 2024, CFO reported total revenues of $38,480,729, with total assets amounting to $204,013,681.

Recent Funding Rounds

Specific details regarding recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed. However, CFO's substantial asset base indicates a strong capacity to support ongoing and future philanthropic initiatives.

Notable Investors

CFO's funding primarily comes from individual donors, families, businesses, and organizations committed to community development and social services in Oklahoma. The foundation's diverse donor base reflects a broad commitment to philanthropy within the state.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The capital is utilized to administer grant programs, support philanthropic initiatives, and provide administrative services that reduce organizational overhead. This strategic allocation ensures that resources are effectively directed toward community impact and sustainable development.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

CFO's pipeline includes a variety of community development and social service projects across Oklahoma. While specific pipeline candidates are not publicly detailed, the foundation's focus areas encompass:

• Education: Supporting educational institutions and programs to enhance learning opportunities.

• Healthcare: Funding initiatives that improve health services and access.

• Economic Development: Investing in projects that stimulate local economies and create jobs.

Stages of Clinical Trials or Product Development

As a philanthropic organization, CFO does not engage in clinical trials or product development. Instead, it focuses on funding and supporting community-based programs and initiatives.

Target Conditions

CFO addresses a wide range of conditions, including educational disparities, healthcare access, economic development challenges, and other social issues affecting Oklahoma communities.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

Specific timelines for individual projects are determined by the nature of each initiative and the needs of the communities served. CFO collaborates with local organizations to establish realistic and impactful timelines for project implementation.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

CFO utilizes proprietary data management systems to track donations, manage funds, and monitor the impact of grants. These systems ensure transparency and accountability in all financial transactions.

Significant Scientific Methods

The foundation employs data analytics and community assessment tools to identify needs, allocate resources effectively, and measure the outcomes of funded programs. This evidence-based approach enhances the efficacy of its philanthropic efforts.

AI-Driven Capabilities

While specific AI-driven capabilities are not detailed, CFO's use of advanced data analytics suggests a commitment to leveraging technology for informed decision-making and strategic planning.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

• Teresa Rose, JD – Executive Director

Teresa Rose served as the Executive Director of CFO for seven and a half years, leading the organization through significant growth and impact. In 2025, she transitioned to join a private family foundation.

• Jana Moring – Executive Director

Following Teresa Rose's departure, Jana Moring was appointed as CFO's new Executive Director. With over 25 years of experience in philanthropy, Jana brings a deep passion for community-driven giving and strategic insight to the role.

• Kelly Farrow – Chief Financial Officer

Kelly Farrow oversees CFO's financial operations, ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency in all financial matters.

• Rachael Hunter – Director of Communications

Rachael Hunter manages CFO's communications strategy, enhancing the organization's visibility and engagement with stakeholders.

• Lisa Pitsiri – Director of Donor Services and Programs

Lisa Pitsiri coordinates donor relations and program development, fostering strong partnerships and effective program implementation.

• Amber Shelton – Director of Scholarships

Amber Shelton oversees scholarship programs, facilitating educational opportunities for students across Oklahoma.

Key Contributions

The leadership team at CFO is instrumental in driving the organization's mission forward, ensuring effective grantmaking, and fostering community partnerships that lead to sustainable impact.

Leadership Changes

Recent Appointments

• Jana Moring – Executive Director

Appointed in 2025, Jana Moring succeeded Teresa Rose as Executive Director, bringing extensive experience in philanthropic leadership to CFO.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The philanthropic sector in Oklahoma is characterized by a diverse range of community foundations and nonprofit organizations dedicated to various causes. The market is dynamic, with organizations continually adapting to address emerging community needs and challenges.

Competitor Analysis

• Tulsa Community Foundation

One of the largest community foundations in the U.S., managing approximately $4 billion in assets as of 2011.

• Oklahoma City Community Foundation

Established in 1969, this foundation manages over $1.55 billion in assets and administers more than 3,000 funds, including scholarships and grants.

• Inasmuch Foundation

Founded in 1982, Inasmuch Foundation focuses on community and civic engagement, education, and human services, with an endowment exceeding $550 million as of 2023.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

CFO collaborates with various community foundations and organizations across Oklahoma to enhance its impact. Notable partnerships include:

• Chickasha Community Foundation

Accepts grant applications from nonprofits in Chickasha County.

• Tahlequah Community Foundation

Manages grant applications for nonprofits in Tahlequah County.

Operational Insights

CFO's strategic focus on community development and social services positions it as a key player in Oklahoma's philanthropic landscape.