Friends of the Roger Von Amelunxen Foundation:

It has been over forty years since the inception of the Roger Von Amelunxen Foundation. As many of you know, the Foundation was started by George and Helen Von Amelunxen after the tragic death of their son, Roger. As Roger’s sister, I have journeyed with the Foundation since the beginning. It has been a privilege, and I am grateful for the introduction to some wonderful people who have given advice, direction, and perhaps most importantly, their time to help us.

In recent years, we have faced a number of difficult roadblocks. For the past two years, we have chosen not to participate in the Combined Federal Campaign, both because we have seen a significant decline in donations over the past five years and because the fees that the CFC charges for application and participation are simply not sustainable for us. Further, the COVID pandemic stressed what was already a small group running the day-to-day operations of the Foundation. After much soul-searching and extensive discussions among the Board, we have made the difficult decision to begin the process of shutting down the Foundation.

We are investigating ways we can accomplish this as seamlessly as possible. It does mean we will no longer be accepting grant applications for death benefits, unreimbursed medical expenses, or disaster relief. While we will also not be accepting any new scholarship applications, we will honor the four-year renewable scholarships that have previously been awarded.

My family and I shall forever hold dear the memory of the many people who contributed their time, talents, and treasure to care for others. To all, God bless.

Karen Donnelly
President