On August 18, Nancy Bales assumed the position of executive director of the Gray Family Foundation. As executive director, Bales is responsible for guiding the organization’s long-term strategy and goals, managing grant programs and convening partners across sectors to increase civic
stewardship in communities around the state. Previously, Bales was the vice president of development at Ecotrust. Over her nine years at Ecotrust, Bales held increasing responsibility for planning the strategy and implementing the mission of the nonprofit entity and in launching the for-profit subsidiaries of the organization.
“The Gray Family Foundation shares so many of Ecotrust’s values. We are excited to see Nancy take her talent and experience to such a great organization working towards restoring the connection between people and the natural world,” said Astrid J. Scholz, President, Ecotrust.
A supporting organization of The Oregon Community Foundation, the Gray Family Foundation is based on the values, beliefs and lifework of John and Betty Gray, whose wide-ranging philanthropy and social contributions helped make Oregon the exceptional place it is today. The Gray Family
Foundation supports Oregonians in fostering a strong local land ethic, sustainable communities and thoughtful stewardship of the natural environment. The foundation’s grantmaking focuses on outdoor education and other environmental learning experiences. Since 1997, the Gray family has distributed more than $100 million through OCF.
“Betty and John Gray were an incredible force for improving life in Oregon. Their legacy continues through the Gray Family Foundation. We’re delighted to have someone take on the executive director position whose values and skills so clearly align with this legacy,” said Max Williams, President and CEO, The Oregon Community Foundation.
The mission of The Oregon Community Foundation is to improve life in Oregon and promote effective philanthropy. OCF works with individuals, families, businesses and organizations to create charitable funds to support the community causes they care about. Through these funds OCF awarded nearly $70 million in grants and scholarships in 2013.