United Way of Metropolitan Dallas is kicking off 2024 with a major gift from a North Texas couple who led the nonprofit's annual fundraising campaign during the pandemic.
Former Kimberly-Clark CEO Tom Falk and his wife Karen are donating $5 million to organizations that support community education, workforce and health programs. United Way's Aspire United 2030 initiative aims to provide resources to increase high school graduation rates, support economic security for families and promote healthier lives.
“Tom and Karen have a very mission-driven approach to philanthropic support, and we are proud of their commitment to our programs,” United Way CEO Jennifer Sampson said in a statement. “We are confident that our investment will create opportunities for all North Texans to prosper.”
Tom Falk, chairman of the Federal Reserve, led the agency's 2013 campaign. And in 2020, the couple was recognized for their critical role in supporting United Way's Pandemic Recovery Fund. They teamed up in the midst of the pandemic to lead the agency's annual fundraiser.
In September, United Way awarded the couple its highest recognition for volunteers. The Fawkes also donated $2 million to United Way in 2016.
“We believe in giving back to the community in a very thoughtful and purposeful way,” Tom Falk said. “Community investments must have a measurable impact, and for many years, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas has worked with a trusted network of community impact partners to create meaningful impact. I have seen firsthand how they create programs that truly change lives for the better.”
Karen Faulk said she views the gift as an “investment in future generations of North Texans.”
United Way of Metropolitan Dallas will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2025.
In November, United Way and PepsiCo began raising $20 million to support short- and long-term needs in south Dallas. Current and retired PepsiCo employees donated his $8 million to the South Dallas Prosperity Fund.
