Louise R. Lester Foundation Inc

Overview

The Louise R. Lester Foundation Inc. is a private, independent foundation based in Roanoke, Virginia. It was established in 2001 through the charitable efforts of Mrs. Louise Robertson Lester, a native of Martinsville, Virginia. The foundation operates with the mission of continuing Mrs. Lester's legacy by supporting various philanthropic causes.

Founding and History

Mrs. Louise Robertson Lester founded the foundation to channel her philanthropic endeavors. Born in Martinsville, Virginia, Mrs. Lester was an accomplished academic, athlete, artist, and poet. She pursued further education at several institutions, including Bentley Business College, Gassaway Business College, Patrick Henry Community College, and Averett College. Her contributions to her community were recognized with numerous awards, including the Exchange Club’s Book of Golden Deeds Award in 2002.

Mrs. Lester was actively involved in various community organizations, such as the First Baptist Church of Martinsville, the Baptist Children’s Home in Salem, VA, and the Salvation Army Advisory Board. She also supported educational institutions by establishing trusts and scholarships, notably at Patrick Henry Community College and Averett College. Mrs. Lester passed away in 2017 at the age of 96, but her foundation continues to honor her philanthropic legacy.

Purpose and Activities

The Louise R. Lester Foundation primarily supports nonprofit organizations focusing on religious, scientific, literary, humanitarian, and educational causes. It does not provide financial assistance to individuals, sports teams/events, or political candidates/organizations. All grant recipients must be tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations. The foundation emphasizes the importance of sound financial planning and management practices among grant recipients.

Financial Overview

In the fiscal year ending December 2023, the foundation reported revenue of $513,000, primarily derived from investment income and sales of assets. Expenses totaled $939,000, with the majority dedicated to charitable disbursements. As of 2023, the foundation held total assets of approximately $13.4 million with minimal liabilities.

Leadership

B.J. Robertson has served as the Executive Director, while Elaine R. Zopp holds the position of President. Other notable roles within the foundation include Suzanne R. Jones, Laura B. Robertson, Barry Robertson, and Lindsey A. Coley, who serve as Director and Secretary, respectively.

Geographic Focus

The foundation focuses its grantmaking efforts primarily in the greater Roanoke Valley area, the Smith Mountain Lake area, and the greater Henry County area of Virginia. However, it may also support initiatives outside these regions at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

Grantmaking

Recent grants have included support for organizations such as the Frankie Lemmon Foundation, Agape Center Corporation, and Mill Mountain Zoo. These grants typically focus on general operating support and specific projects within the supported organizations.

The Louise R. Lester Foundation continues to uphold Mrs. Lester's commitment to philanthropy and community development by providing essential financial support to various nonprofit organizations across Virginia and beyond.