A time of transition -- that has been the reality of 2024 for us at the Chickasaw Foundation. During a transition (in multiple areas) it is easy to let different things go by the wayside and pick them back up when the transition is complete. But even amid big changes to leadership, the Foundation persevered. We kept moving forward.

In 2024, our programs flourished and we had three events that produced wonderful results.

We were able to host our 3rd annual golf scramble at Oak Hills Golf & Country Club in October this year. That event is usually in May -- and it's been scheduled for May 12, 2025 already! -- but we simply didn't have the resources to put it on in May this year. So, instead of cancelling it, as was the plan, we held it in October. (Golf scrambles are tricky because you want to ensure the weather will be nice and the course will be in pristine condition.) And it was great! All in all, we raised more than $23,000. That is because of our wonderful sponsors, and those who played. For that, we're grateful.

Additionally, we revamped our auction. We rebranded to the Expressions in Art Auction because we wanted to put the focus on what the fundraiser is for -- art students. Even more, we decided to hold it in-person for the first time in years. Safe to say, we were quite unsure about how things would go. Alas, the event was a success -- and though there is always room for growth and improvement -- we raised a little over $7,000 between the raffle and auction items. Those funds go directly to the 2025-2026 Chickasaw Foundation Fine Arts Scholarship.

Another change was made. Instead of hosting our scholarship reception at the McSwain Theatre -- a wonderful venue, to be sure -- we hosted it at the Ada Chickasaw Community Center. With over 20 recipients attending -- plus many others -- the event was also a tremendous success and a great night of honoring our 2024-2025 recipients and scholarship donors.

As far as events go for 2024, we are more than pleased with how things went. And we are thankful to all who volunteered and helped make them great.

But then you have our programs. For the sake of brevity:

• Our scholarship program produced 67 recipients with two continuing recipients;
• We assisted 22 individuals and families through our benevolence fund;
• More than 25 schools visited the Chickasaw Cultural Center through our Inchokkaalaali (I'm Visiting) Program;
• Due to many instances of severe weather, including the tornado in Sulphur, we expended more than $50,000 through our disaster relief program; and
• Through the Sulphur Storefront Improvement Grant -- which is still ongoing – we’re committed to helping revitalize Sulphur and help business owners get back on their feet.

All of this -- and more -- is because of our donors. Those who care deeply about our cause, our mission, our vision.

I say all of that to say two things.

One, thank you. Thank you to those who volunteered, who donated, and who contributed in any form in 2024. You are greatly appreciated and your generosity doesn't go unnoticed.

Two, as it is the last day of the year, would you consider donating and playing a role in changing lives? Perhaps our mission is something you relate to; if so, we would love to have your support. If you feel compelled to contribute, click here.

Once again, thank you. Thank you for helping us instill hope and foster resilience in Chickasaw families and friends. We hope to have that same help in 2025!