More than 100 emerging philanthropists have completed the program over 25 years.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — February 18, 2026 — Twelve emerging philanthropists have been selected for the 2026 class of the Weaver Philanthropic Initiative, a hands-on learning experience in strategic philanthropy offered by The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida.
The group will participate in a six-month curriculum facilitated by the professional staff of The Community Foundation. Participants will learn from local and national experts, explore the needs and opportunities in the Northeast Florida region, and explore philanthropic frameworks designed to clarify their personal giving approach. The 2026 class includes Lainie Boswell, Shantel Greene, Sydnor Kerns, Julia Baker Kerns, Hilary Libman, Emily Ussery Nasta, Annie Lee O’Steen, Luke Morgan O’Steen, Morgan Owens, Forest Peyton, Lauren Purdy and Jason Purdy.
“Next-generation donors are approaching philanthropy in their own ways, seeking proximity to the work of local nonprofits,” said Wanda Willis, Vice President of Civic Leadership. “We hope this program will help them deepen their connection to local giving, as it has for many who have come before them.”
After exploring community issues and defining their philanthropic priorities, each class member will choose a nonprofit in which to invest. The Community Foundation provides a match from discretionary funding to increase the impact of their choices, resulting in a grant of $5,000 per participant.
The Weaver Philanthropic Initiative began in 1999 and was named in honor of J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver in 2013.
About The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida
The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida (www.jaxcf.org), Florida’s oldest and one of its largest community foundations, works to stimulate philanthropy to build a better community. The Foundation helps donors invest their philanthropic gifts wisely, helps nonprofits serve the region effectively, and helps people come together to make the community a better place. Now in its 62nd year, the Foundation manages more than $809 million in assets and has made more than $925 million in grants since inception.
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Contact: Stephanie Garry Garfunkel
VP, Strategic Communications
904-224-7208 | sgarfunkel@jaxcf.org