Lives Changed, Futures Built

Every dollar invested, every scholarship awarded, every grant given has a name, a face, and a story. These are some of the lives the RKR Family Foundation has been privileged to touch.

20+
Scholarships Awarded
$60K+
In Grants & Support
3
Communities Served
2023
Year Established

Stories of Impact

Filter by program type or read them all. Every story is a testament to the power of compassion.

Professional chef preparing food in a restaurant kitchen
Featured Story
Maria R.
Scholarship Recipient — Culinary Arts

Maria was working two jobs while attending El Paso Community College, struggling to pay for her culinary arts program. The RKR Family Foundation scholarship of $3,000 allowed her to reduce to one job and focus on her studies. She graduated with honors and now works as a sous chef at a respected restaurant in El Paso.

“Without the RKR Foundation, I would have had to drop out. They didn’t just pay for my education—they believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself.”
Outcome: Graduated with honors. Now employed as a sous chef, supporting her family, and mentoring other aspiring chefs in her community.
Father spending time with his children at home
James T.
Financial Assistance

James, a single father of two in Texas, was facing eviction after an unexpected medical emergency left him unable to work for three months. The foundation provided $4,500 in short-term financial assistance to cover rent and utilities while he recovered.

“The RKR Foundation was there when no one else was. They gave my kids a roof over their heads.”
Outcome: Within six months, James was back on his feet, employed full-time, and rebuilding his family’s stability.
Cheerleaders performing at a university sporting event
UTEP Spirit Program
Scholarship — Athletics

The RKR Family Foundation made a four-year, $40,000 commitment to the UTEP Spirit and Cheer program in honor of Katie Ruelas, who was a cheerleader there. The funds support students who miss work shifts for games, cover uniforms, and provide general program support.

“These students sacrifice so much. When they miss a shift for a game and can’t make rent, this fund is what keeps them in school.”
— Program Director
Outcome: Ongoing four-year commitment providing $10,000 per year. Multiple student cheerleaders kept in school and supported through the program.
Church congregation gathered in worship
Pastor David M.
Ministry Grant

Through the E3 ministry partnership, the foundation helped support Pastor David’s training program in Central America. The grant funded materials, travel, and training sessions for 15 new pastors across three communities.

“The RKR Foundation understands that investing in spiritual leaders is investing in entire communities.”
Outcome: 15 pastors trained across 3 communities in Central America. New congregations established and thriving.
HVAC technician working on an air conditioning unit
Sarah K.
Scholarship — HVAC Certification

Sarah was a beautician looking to transition into the HVAC trade for better pay and stability. The foundation’s $2,500 vocational scholarship funded her certification program. She completed the program in 8 months and immediately received three job offers.

“I went from barely making ends meet to having a career with benefits and a future.”
Outcome: Completed HVAC certification in 8 months. Received 3 job offers immediately. Now earning a stable income with full benefits.
Students studying together at a community college campus
Lehigh Valley Community
Community Partnership

The foundation’s partnership with the Walter and Almo Bastian Fund at the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation has helped extend their reach to Pennsylvania communities, providing scholarship opportunities to vocational students in the region.

Outcome: Expanded foundation reach to Pennsylvania. Vocational scholarship opportunities now available to Lehigh Valley students.

Your Story Could Be Next

If you or someone you know needs a hand up, we are here to help. Apply for a scholarship, financial assistance, or ministry grant.

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Are you a past recipient of an RKR Family Foundation grant or scholarship? We would love to hear how it made a difference in your life.