The McKenna Foundation plans to culminate a productive year by awarding a year-end unrestricted grant to a nonprofit partner and is seeking the community’s participation in the nomination process.

The Foundation is excited to invite the public to nominate a nonprofit organization serving Comal County for a chance to receive one of these generous grants. What organization has made a substantial difference in your life or the lives of others? Which nonprofit has been an incredible partner in the community? Who deserves special recognition for going above and beyond? This is your opportunity to shine a light on the organization that has made a lasting impact.

Cast your vote HERE. Please include a few sentences explaining why you believe your chosen organization deserves to be recognized this year.

Nominations will remain open through December 11.

“We love having the community’s input and hearing why they select the nonprofit they do,” said McKenna Foundation Program Officer Kristen Fain. “We have gotten a great community response the last couple of years, so we are excited to do it again this year!”

The recipient will be announced during the Foundation’s annual Christmas Breakfast on December 16. The news will be shared on the McKenna website and on Instagram at @mckennafoundation.

This year, the Foundation has already dedicated over $1.4 million in grants to nonprofit organizations in Comal County. Since the Foundation began its grantmaking efforts in 2009, over $31 million in funding has been awarded to nonprofits serving our neighbors.

Join us in celebrating the incredible work being done by our local nonprofits and help choose the year-end grant recipient!

The McKenna Foundation has released its 2024 Nonprofit Economic Impact Survey results, highlighting that while local nonprofit organizations continue to deliver essential services to our neighbors, they are increasingly stretched thin by rising demand and diminishing support.

The report, which collected responses from 43 local nonprofits, revealed that 44% of organizations surveyed reported a significant surge in demand for their services. Yet, this increase in demand is met with a decline in resources; volunteer hours have dropped by over 24%, representing a $846,000 loss in volunteer service value. Additionally, the report reveals a 44.4% decrease in government and public agency funding, compared to 2023.

Despite these challenges, the nonprofit sector remains a powerful economic and social force. In 2024, local nonprofits generated $85 million in revenue, directly impacting nearly 140,000 of our neighbors and providing employment for 1,096 people.

“The nonprofit sector is being asked to do more with less,” said McKenna Foundation CEO Alice Jewell. “We are seeing a steep decline in government and public funding, matched with a decline in volunteer support. We urge the community to step in–because when nonprofits thrive, everyone benefits.”

The report also sheds light on funding sources, noting that individual donors contributed just 7% of the total revenue in 2024, underscoring a critical opportunity for community members to make a difference.

The Foundation urges residents to take action in whatever way they can, whether it be through donating, spreading the word, or taking a lead.

“Start by learning about the incredible work nonprofits are doing. Volunteer your time, serve on a board, make a donation, or simply talk to people about the work of nonprofits. Every effort counts.” Jewell said.

Despite growing challenges, local nonprofits in New Braunfels and Comal County continue to rise to the occasion, providing support where it’s needed most. Whether it’s hunger relief, mental and behavioral health care, youth and senior services, housing assistance, or family well-being programs, these organizations remain dedicated to our community.

Visit mckenna.org to learn more about nonprofits and the incredible work they do. Find local resources by visiting comalcares.org.