About the Artist
Born in San Antonio, Texas in 1978, art has been a part of Aaron Richardson’s life since before he could write. Leaning into the dissonance between realism and expressionist mark-making, Aaron’s oil paintings draw the viewer in as they realize it’s not a photo.
His work has been featured in group and solo exhibitions in Albuquerque and San Antonio. He’s additionally been a regular participant in the Albuquerque Museum Foundation’s ArtsThrive! since 2019 sharing paintings in large and small formats, as well as live painting demonstrations. Beyond the gallery, Aaron has contributed to film and television as a Painting Animator and as a prop artist creating sketchbook entries and custom, temporary tattoos for actors.
Aaron paints in the studio as well as on location, working from direct observation to capture the light, color, and atmosphere in his subjects. He can be found painting throughout Albuquerque and across New Mexico.
A letter from our CEO
As I reflect on 2024, I am filled with deep gratitude—for our donors, grantees, partners, and the incredible staff and board who bring the mission of Albuquerque Community Foundation to life each day. This past year was both pivotal and profoundly energizing, marking important milestones in our growth while offering a glimpse into the Foundation’s future.
One of the most impactful moments of the year was my long-planned sabbatical during July and August. While a time of personal rest and renewal, it served a deeper purpose: preparing our leadership, board, and community for the next chapter. With my planned retirement at the end of 2026, the sabbatical allowed our team—and me—to envision the Foundation beyond my tenure. I stepped away with full confidence in the leadership of our COO Marisa Magallanez, who served as acting President and CEO during my absence, and in the strength of our staff and board. Sometimes, you have to step back to clearly see how things will move forward.
We also launched our first quasi-endowment—a flexible philanthropic tool that allows donors and organizations to establish an endowment with the option to extend or convert it into a permanent one. The New Mexico Educational Assistance Foundation Quasi-Endowment, established in partnership with the New Mexico Student Loan Guarantee Corporation, is supporting vital student loan and scholarship programs, including the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship. This forward-thinking fund is helping to secure educational access for generations to come. Read about this Fund on page 49.
I remain especially moved by the power of legacy giving. One remarkable example in 2024 was the Joseph, Margaret and Peggy Jo Dietmeier Fund, established through a thoughtful estate plan. This fund will support organizations dedicated to animal welfare and equestrian programs across Bernalillo County—evidence that lasting change often begins with a generous heart and a conversation with a trusted advisor. Read more about this Fund on page 50.
Speaking of legacy, our companion foundation, New Mexico Community Trust (NMCT), continues to thrive. In 2024, NMCT had a banner year in grantmaking, supported by national private foundations, federal, and state funding. As an intermediary grantmaker, NMCT is uniquely positioned to support communities across New Mexico, and I believe it represents one of the greatest opportunities for long-term growth.
To our donors—individuals, families, corporations—thank you for your enduring trust and investment in our shared vision. To the nonprofits we serve, thank you for your relentless work to build a vibrant and inclusive New Mexico. To our Board, thank you for your wisdom, generosity, and leadership. And to our staff, thank you for your passion and excellence—your work is the heartbeat of our success.
Together, we are building a stronger, more equitable future for New Mexico. And I could not be more optimistic about where we’re headed next.
Randy Royster, President & CEO
Vamanos a Participar
ANNUAL GRANT CYCLE
Loida Martiza Pérez, Founder and Executive Director of Narrative, and Olivia Martinez, Administrative Assistant
Theater Artists David H Parker and Carlton V. Bell leading a session at the 2024 AfroMundo Festival
AfroMundo
If you’re looking for an organization that’s lighting up the cultural scene with passion, authenticity, and a whole lot of soul, AfroMundo is where it’s at.
AfroMundo is an organization dedicated to celebrating and uplifting African and Afro-Latinx heritage. Through engaging programs, artistic expression, and educational initiatives, AfroMundo creates spaces where history, identity, and culture come alive in meaningful ways.
At the heart of the conversation is the power of storytelling. AfroMundo isn’t just about organizing events—it’s about fostering experiences that connect people with their roots. Whether through festivals, panel discussions, or community-led projects, the organization works to ensure that Black voices and histories are recognized, preserved, and shared.
Loida Maritza Pérez, AfroMundo’s founder and Executive Director of Narrative, reflected on how funding received from Albuquerque Community Foundation helped the organization spread its mission of sharing the narratives of groups who often go unnoticed or unrepresented. The funds helped the organization increase its offerings in a time when healing, community building, and interaction is critical.
AfroMundo strives to find the balance between honoring the past and shaping the future. The organization emphasizes that cultural preservation isn’t just about looking back—it’s about making history relevant today. By engaging young people, incorporating technology, and encouraging collaboration, they help ensure that these narratives continue to evolve and inspire new generations. Their multigenerational approach is helping to rebuild connections.
While there has been progress in the challenges of representation, gaps remain in how Afro-descendant cultures are portrayed and understood. AfroMundo acknowledges these challenges but approaches them with creativity and determination. By elevating authentic stories and perspectives, they work to break down stereotypes and build a more inclusive cultural landscape.
Art and performance also play a big part of AfroMundo’s work. From music and dance to literature and spoken word, their events bring cultural traditions to life in dynamic ways. These expressions not only celebrate heritage but also serve as powerful tools for education, connection, and advocacy.
The AfroMundo team highlights the importance of community involvement. They encourage people to engage with their work by attending events, supporting Black artists, and continuing the conversation about cultural identity and representation. Their message is clear: preserving and celebrating culture is a shared effort, and everyone has a role to play.
During their annual 8-day festival, speakers from around the globe come to share their stories. This festival creates the opportunity to share their culture, their history, and at the same time provides the opportunity to connect with and learn from other speakers, often forming lifelong connections based on a common bond.
AfroMundo’s message is clear:The world is richer when diverse histories are recognized and celebrated.
Their call to action? Get involved. Attend their events. Read the literature. Support Black artists. Be part of the conversation. Because at the end of the day, preserving culture is a collective effort—one that’s as vibrant and dynamic as the communities AfroMundo serves.
Junior Achievement Volunteers in the classroom
Job Shadow Day participants at First Financial Credit Union
Junior Achievement
For Junior Achievement of New Mexico (JA), empowering young people with financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurial thinking isn’t just a mission — it’s a movement. Since its founding in 1993, the organization has reached thousands of students across the state, helping them build critical life skills and prepare for a successful future.
In the 2023–2024 school year, JA served over 11,000 students—surpassing its original goal of 10,500—and is on track to reach 13,000 in the next year. From kindergarten through high school, students engage with grade-specific curriculum focused on budgeting, saving, needs versus wants, and long-term career planning. Each lesson is brought to life through JA’s dedicated volunteers—nearly 450 community members annually—many of whom come from local financial institutions and businesses.
“Our volunteers are the heart of what we do,” says Mandy Wilson, Program Director. “Without them, we couldn’t bring this programming to life.”
Funding from Albuquerque Community Foundation has been instrumental in advancing JA’s impact. The 2024 grant helped cover the cost of educational materials like student journals, storybooks, and activity kits, as well as critical staff training to elevate program delivery. One of the most transformative uses of the funding was addressing a barrier often overlooked — transportation. Thanks to the grant, the organization was able to provide bus transportation for its high school job shadow program, giving students the opportunity to visit local businesses, participate in mock interviews, and explore career paths they might never have imagined otherwise.
This kind of hands-on learning — whether through JA’s kindergarten “Ourselves” program or middle school career speaker series — makes a lasting impression. “We want students to start thinking about money, setting goals, and understanding their options,” says Wilson. Post-program surveys show that 80% of students report thinking more seriously about their financial futures.
The work isn’t done alone. Under the leadership of President Erin Hagenow, JA has rebuilt and re-energized itself since 2017, supported by what she proudly calls “the best board in the city.” That dedication is reflected in their strategic vision: continued geographic expansion into Santa Fe and Española, and alignment with New Mexico’s new graduation requirements, which now emphasize financial literacy.
“Receiving support from the Foundation is more than just a grant,” Hagenow shares. “It’s a message from our community that they believe in our mission. That support gives us the breathing room to dream bigger—whether it’s enhancing programming, reaching new schools, or planning our next three-year strategy.”
Perhaps the most powerful testament to JA’s impact comes from the students themselves. Through programs like High School Heroes, students become mentors to younger peers, with many discovering their own potential in the process. “We get to see high schoolers at their best,” Wilson says. “They show up, dress professionally, and take pride in being leaders.”
With deep roots and growing momentum, Junior Achievement of New Mexico is proving that when young people are given the tools to succeed, they rise—and the whole community rises with them.
Founder Angela Cerci and one of her rescue dogs
RezDawg Rescue staff loading pet food onto van for a local pantry
RezDdawg Rescue
RezDawg Rescue has impacted over 18,000 dogs and cats, while also making a difference in the lives of people. Dedicated to underserved communities in New Mexico and beyond, the organization provides crucial animal welfare services, including rescue, transport, spay and neuter clinics, vaccinations, and a pet food pantry.
The journey began when founder Angela Cerci, then a schoolteacher on the Navajo Nation, found herself rescuing stray dogs left at her doorstep. As the number of animals in need grew, she realized the limited resources available—especially with the overburdened Gallup shelter euthanizing many incoming animals. Angela knew there had to be a better way, so she set out to create a system that would not only rescue animals but also support indigenous and rural communities.
Today, RezDawg Rescue addresses the root causes of animal overpopulation and welfare challenges. Their services focus on identifying community-specific needs and delivering tailored solutions. A major boost came from a grant by the Albuquerque Community Foundation, which allowed the organization to expand efforts, particularly in food distribution. Their pet pantry program now provides over 400,000 pounds of food annually, supporting municipal shelters, tribal communities, and individuals struggling to feed their pets. The funding also helped improve infrastructure, build a proper loading dock for food distribution, and expand transport and spay/neuter programs.
RezDawg Rescue operates in multiple areas, including the Eastern Agency of the Navajo Nation and Fort Defiance, with expansion into new regions like Tucumcari. They work closely with partners such as Valencia Animal Services to implement sustainable solutions in struggling regions. Their approach is not just reactive—rescues and medical aid—but proactive and engaging with communities to prevent future issues.
What sets RezDawg apart is its deep grassroots connection.
The organization relies on word-of-mouth and organic growth to reach those in need, ensuring that communities willing to improve conditions receive the resources and coordination they lack. Angela believes in collaboration, bridging gaps between passion and tangible support.
Beyond food distribution, RezDawg provides medical care, conducting approximately 1,800 spay/neuter surgeries annually. With each procedure costing around $140, consistent funding remains crucial. They also rehabilitate animals in need of medical attention before placing them in foster or permanent homes, primarily through their extensive foster network in Colorado, which includes 300 foster homes.
Looking ahead, RezDawg aims to strengthen its infrastructure for long-term sustainability. Their priorities include completing the pet pantry, securing additional funding for medical services, and expanding outreach to high-need areas. With a dedicated team of 11 staff members and over 300 volunteers, the organization continues to grow, proving that with the right support, meaningful change is possible. Angela’s dedication remains unwavering, driven by the profound connections she builds and the tangible impact on both animals and people.
Through their expanding services, committed team, and community-driven approach, RezDawg Rescue is not just saving lives—it’s creating lasting change in the communities that need it most.
Southwest Creations Collaborative employees sewing bags for local vendor
Executive Director Susan Matteucci
Southwest Creations Collaborative
For over three decades, Southwest Creations Collaborative (SCC) has stood as a beacon of economic opportunity and holistic family development in Albuquerque. Founded in 1994 by a group of nine women, many of whom were immigrants from Mexico, SWCC began with a radical yet simple theory of change: empower women economically, and they will invest in their families and communities.
Today, SCC operates a thriving contract manufacturing business that serves as the backbone of a powerful social enterprise. The organization provides stable, year-round employment to low-income women, complemented by a robust suite of wraparound services, including adult education, citizenship support, GED preparation, and even onsite daycare—offered at just $0.25 per hour since its inception. Over 250 individuals have worked at SCC, and many choose to stay long-term, building not only skills but a deep sense of community and purpose.
SCC’s business model is uniquely self-sustaining, with approximately 80% of its funding generated through production revenue. The remaining 20% is supported by grants and donations, which offer critical support for expanding programs and deepening impact. Recent support from Albuquerque Community Foundation has bolstered both their education and workforce development initiatives. A grant for the Hacia: Toward the University program enabled SCC to staff a team of ten bilingual, first-generation college graduates who mentor families in navigating the school system and building educational goals. The result? A staggering 98% high school graduation rate and 95% college attendance rate among participating youth.
A second grant for workforce development helped expand adult education and on-the-job training opportunities. With these funds, SCC invested in its best production year to date, generating over $200,000 in surplus income—money that was reinvested into programs and the community. Altogether, SCC has infused more than $19 million in wages into the local economy over the last 30 years, uplifting hundreds of families in the South Valley and beyond.
But the heart of SCC’s success lies in the community it nurtures. From moms earning their GEDs alongside their teens, to staff forming a Ballet Folklorico troupe as part of their personal development, SCC empowers individuals to dream boldly and live joyfully.
“Success looks like a child graduating from high school, going to college, and finding a path they love—while their parent earns a GED or buys a home,” says Susan Matteucci, Executive Director. “It’s about the long-term stability and self-determination of families.”
The Foundation’s support has provided more than just financial backing—it has fostered a true partnership. “They don’t just fund us; they show up for us. They think with us. That kind of support is rare,” Matteucci shares. This collaborative spirit ensures that SCC can continue doing what it does best: creating transformative, intergenerational impact.
As SCC looks to the future, its vision is clear—sustain, grow, and pass the torch to the next generation of leaders who will carry forward this powerful legacy of love, labor, and community.
Southwest Organizing Project volunteers tending to a community garden in the South Valley
Southwest Organizing Project volunteers tending to a community garden in the South Valley
Southwest Organizing Project
For over four decades, the Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) has stood at the intersection of grassroots power, youth leadership, and cultural preservation in New Mexico. Founded in 1980 by young organizers of color, SWOP continues to empower low-income communities of color through campaigns that prioritize social, economic, and environmental justice.
At the heart of SWOP’s work is Project Feed the Hood, a dynamic community gardening initiative that blends urban agriculture, education, and civic engagement. In partnership with schools and neighborhoods across Albuquerque, the project transforms neglected land into lush food gardens and agroecology centers. These gardens aren’t just for growing food—they’re for cultivating leaders. Through multigenerational engagement, SWOP creates welcoming spaces for everyone from elementary students to seniors, fostering a deep sense of ownership and connection to the land.
“Everything we do is about leadership development,” says Executive Director George Luján.
“It’s about creating spaces where people gain skills, political education, and the tools to pursue their goals collectively.”
SWOP’s garden sites have evolved into powerful hubs of community learning and organizing. In the last year alone—thanks in part to support from Albuquerque Community Foundation—the organization achieved its most significant expansion yet. With funding from the Foundation, SWOP hired additional staff, enabling the team to cultivate and maintain an entire city-owned garden plot in the Southeast Heights for the first time. That investment also catalyzed further support from the City of Albuquerque, which brought in water, electricity, fencing, and infrastructure enhancements that amplified the project’s long-term sustainability.
As the gardens grow, so does the movement. Project Feed the Hood has become an incubator for youth activism, spawning programs like the Youth Agricultural Collaborative and school-based gardens that now operate semi-independently. These spinoffs reflect SWOP’s vision: community transformation that’s led by the community itself.
“It’s not just our staff or members anymore—it’s other groups, schools, and organizations building their own pieces of the garden,” says Luján. “That’s the dream, and it’s finally coming together.”
Beyond food production, SWOP’s garden work intersects with other social justice issues, from gender equity to decarceration. Youth interns often begin in the garden and grow into leadership roles in programs focused on reproductive rights, immigration, and criminal justice reform. This flexible, youth-driven model ensures that every participant finds a path that speaks to their passion and purpose.
Albuquerque Community Foundation’s continued partnership has been instrumental in this evolution. By providing stable support, the Foundation enables SWOP to plan for the long term while responding to the moment. “They help us build the foundation,” Luján explains. “That way, when there’s a crisis or an opportunity, we have the roots to respond without burning out.”
From turning blighted lots into vibrant learning centers to empowering hundreds of young people and families each year, SWOP is a living example of what happens when community organizing meets cultural resilience. With partners like the Foundation, their roots run deep—and their vision for the future grows stronger every season.
Talking Talons Youth Leadership
Talking Talons Youth Leadership program has been committed to empowering young people, helping them develop leadership skills, confidence, and a strong connection to the natural world. Through immersive educational programs, hands-on conservation efforts, and public advocacy opportunities, the organization has given young individuals a platform to use their voices for change.
Talking Talons took flight 40 years ago through a school nurse at Roosevelt Middle School. Initially using rehabbed birds to get the kids to open up, the program began serving Albuquerque and the East Mountains and has been focused on environmental education and youth leadership programs ever since. Like many other organizations, Talking Talons struggled through the pandemic but emerged with a new vision to identify, train and mobilize the next generation of leaders, change-makers, and problem solvers in the face of climate change.
The goal of this new model is to create a strong, supportive network for local youth who care about fighting climate change and protecting nature. The program is focused on mentorship, job and life skills training, leadership opportunities, climate change education, and hands-on projects to help young people make a real difference in their communities.
Talking Talons has focused its programming on youth at the fifth-grade level at Apache, San Antonito and A. Montoya Elementary Schools, and Roosevelt Middle School (Climate Club) of Albuquerque Public Schools. The program is not just about environmental education—it’s about equipping young people with life skills, critical thinking abilities, and a sense of empowerment that extends beyond conservation work. Through public speaking opportunities, hands-on ecological projects, and collaborative initiatives with community partners, participants develop a well-rounded skill set that benefits them in all areas of life.
Climate change education and advocacy is now more important than ever. It’s not about just having an impact. It’s something that today’s youth will be facing for years to come.
“Today’s kids are worried about climate change. Their anxiety is real,” said John Ross, interim executive director for Talking Talons. “What we’re witnessing from the kids who have been in the program, or are going through it now, is they’re engaged. They’re sharing information with their peers, their parents, and even local policymakers.”
Ross continues, “The youth in our programs are getting involved. They’re helping with the community gardens at their schools. They’re putting down their cellphones and actively participating in the after-school programs and learning leadership and teamwork while building lifelong friendships through the Nature Saturday program.”
Looking toward the future, it’s important to continue to focus on sustaining and expanding Talking Talons’ mission. Thanks to the generosity of the Albuquerque Community Foundation, the organization is able to continue to broaden its programs into middle schools and high schools.
With climate change and environmental issues becoming increasingly urgent, Talking Talons’ work is more vital than ever. By providing young people with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to take action, the organization is ensuring that the next generation is prepared to face these challenges head-on.
“It may seem hokey, but I truly believe that the future is our children,” Ross adds. “Our whole board believes that. We love these kids, and we want them to succeed.”
Valencia Shelter Services staff in front of Los Lunas office
Executive Director Stephanie Wood
Valancia Shelter Services
Empowering survivors and rebuilding lives in Valencia County and beyond is the mission of Valencia Shelter Services (VSS). They are the only tri-service agency in central New Mexico serving domestic violence services, sexual assault programs, and child advocacy services under one roof.
VSS has long served as a lifeline for individuals and families experiencing domestic violence in rural New Mexico. The shelter provides essential, trauma-informed services that prioritize safety, empowerment, and long-term healing not only in Valencia County, but also Socorro, Catron and Torrance Counties. Many of their services are offered in both Spanish and English to better meet the needs of the overall population.
With support from Albuquerque Community Foundation, VSS has expanded its capacity to deliver holistic, survivor-centered care in a region where access to resources is often limited. Their work goes far beyond emergency housing. From the moment a survivor arrives, they are met with compassion, advocacy, and practical tools to begin the next chapter of their lives.
Thanks to grant funding, the shelter has been able to sustain and grow its wide array of services, including:
Emergency shelter and 24/7 crisis response, legal advocacy for protective orders and custody matters, individual and group counseling for adults and children, employment readiness programs and financial literacy support, transitional and permanent housing placement assistance, and life skills and parenting workshops.
In 2024 alone, the organization served nearly 1,900 clients, provided emergency shelter to over 250 individuals, delivered more than 11,000 services to clients, and helped dozens transition into stable, independent housing.
Operating in a rural and underserved part of the state, VSS plays a critical role in addressing the unique barriers faced by survivors in small communities—such as limited transportation, housing shortages, and lack of anonymity. The organization’s strong local partnerships and community-based approach have made it a trusted and accessible resource for those in need.
One survivor who completed the program shared, “Before coming here, I didn’t know what it meant to feel safe. They helped me believe in myself again—and now, I have a future.”
With continued support, VSS is working to strengthen its outreach efforts, expand housing options, and build greater capacity for culturally responsive programming. Their work is a powerful example of how grassroots organizations, when supported with the right resources, can transform lives and communities.
VSS’s impact is made possible by funders who believe in survivor-centered, community-driven solutions. We are proud to support their mission and celebrate the work they do every day to create a safer, more just future for all.
Donor & Philanthropic Partners
Vamos a Ser Socio
Profiles in Philanthropy
Tenderlove Philanthropy Center Partner
As someone who personally experienced homelessness, Debbie Johnson founded TenderLove Community Center out of deep compassion and a desire to help others overcome life’s hardships. From the beginning, she invested her own time and resources, often working night shifts and using personal income to keep their doors open. “Building an organizational endowment became essential—not just for sustainability, but for protecting the future of our mission. It took years of careful saving, often setting aside unexpected donations, to meet the minimum $25,000 required. But it was worth it,” said Debbie. The endowment ensures their ability to weather financial uncertainties like the pandemic without laying off staff or cutting services.
Debbie encourages other nonprofits to consider an endowment through partners like Albuquerque Community Foundation. “The Foundation believed in TenderLove when others didn’t, and that support as a Philanthropy Central Partner has given us confidence to grow,” said Debbie. An endowment is about more than money—it’s about securing an organization’s ability to serve its community for years to come. Saving for the future ensures an organization never has to turn anyone away who needs help. It’s peace of mind, and it’s a legacy of stability.
Bev McMillan and volunteers doing community service (right); planting a community garden (bottom).
Bev McMillan Emeritus Trustee
Serving the community isn’t just something Bev McMillan does—it’s who she is. She believes we all carry a responsibility to be our brother’s or sister’s keeper, to lift each other up however we can. From her early days growing up in a neighborhood where checking on elders was just part of the day, to her role as a Trustee and co-founder of the Social Giving Club, community involvement has been her life’s rhythm. True service starts with authenticity. It’s not about writing your name on a board—it’s about showing up, getting your hands involved, and building genuine relationships.
She’s seen firsthand how even a $500 gift can turn into an $85,000 endowment through trust, care, and consistency at the Foundation. That’s the spirit of giving in New Mexico: we may not have much, but we give with heart. And when we meet people where they are—whether it’s through peanut butter drives or tech training for underserved youth—we plant seeds of hope. We honor both the history that shaped us and the future we want to create. According to Bev, service is the rent we pay for our time on Earth, and she intends to pay it forward every day.
New Mexico Educational Assistance Foundation / New Mexico Student Loan Guarantee Corporation
Quasi-Endowment
Establishing a quasi-endowment with Albuquerque Community Foundation is not only a transformative step for organizations seeking long-term sustainability and mission-focused impact, but it is also a first for the Foundation in 2024. For the New Mexico Educational Assistance Foundation (NMEAF) and its sister organization, New Mexico Student Loan Guarantee Corporation, this partnership emerged from a desire to secure a reliable funding stream as traditional federal student loan programs phased out. By pooling $5 million into a quasi-endowment, they created a flexible yet growth-oriented investment mechanism that supports their evolving mission—helping students and families across New Mexico access and afford post-secondary education.
Unlike permanent endowments, this quasi-structure allows for the possibility of tapping into the principal if necessary, providing both stability and adaptability. The organizations emphasize that outsourcing investment management to trusted experts at the Foundation frees up internal capacity, enabling their team to focus on direct service—offering financial aid guidance, Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) support, and financial literacy education to tens of thousands of students annually. This collaboration not only aligns with their educational mission but also amplifies community impact, making it a “win-win” for both the Foundation and the nonprofits it supports. For similar organizations, a quasi-endowment with a reputable organization like the Foundation provides the fiscal backbone to continue vital public service work well into the future.
Joseph, Margaret and Peggy Jo Dietmeier Fund Planned Giving
For Peggy Jo Dietmeier, a love of animals—especially horses—was more than a passion; it was a way of life. From the moment she got her first pony at age 5 until her passing at 73, she dedicated each day to the care, training, and companionship of horses, dogs, and cats. Her devotion to horses took her across the U.S. and abroad, competing in barrel racing, showing halter horses, judging equestrian events, and teaching children about horse care and training. Often traveling solo with only a canine companion, Peggy Jo journeyed from competition to competition in a custom trailer built by her father, Lawrence, complete with living quarters.
With the guidance of the family’s longtime CPA, Carl Alongi, the Joseph, Margaret & Peggy Jo Dietmeier Fund was established to honor her legacy and continue her lifelong support of animals. By including charitable gifts in her estate plan, Peggy Jo ensured her values would live on. Her generosity now benefits organizations close to her heart. Through planned giving, Peggy Jo created a lasting legacy—one that will continue to make a meaningful difference for years to come.
Vamanos a Aprender
Financial Summary
The financial information below reflects highlights from unaudited financial statements in the 2024 calendar year. Our most recent audited financial statements with accompanying notes (plus a report from an independent auditor) are available at abqcf.org.
The Finance Committee oversees our accounting and audit process. The Investment Committee oversees all aspects of the investment program, ensuring assets are well-diversified and designed to meet the Foundation’s objectives. Our investment management summary, along with quarterly investment performance reports, are also available on our website. We welcome your comments and input.
The objective of the Foundation’s investment program is to produce growth and income sufficient to support both donor goals and Foundation objectives and to maintain the purchasing power of the fund for future beneficiaries. The long-term total return needed for the Foundation’s portfolio is consumer price index (CPI), plus the current spending policy rate, plus the Foundation’s average administrative fee.
Annual Grant Distributions
Corporate Partners in Philanthropy
$25,000 | Champion
$15,000 | Community Builder
$5,000 | Benefactor
$2,500 | Partner
Community is Our Foundation
Since 1981, we’ve been serving our community by mobilizing and stewarding resources to create equitable opportunities for all. We’re about supporting Albuquerque and the surrounding four counties by teaming up with donors, nonprofits, funders and community leaders.
From scholarships to community housing support, we’re making sure that resources reach those who need them most. No donation is too big or small—when we pool our resources, the impact is not just significant, but truly inspired and lasting.
In 2024, the Foundation:
Vamanos a Pensar
Reflecting on the Year
For the first time in 19 years, our President & CEO took a sabbatical, while our Chief Operating Officer skillfully led the Foundation in his absence—demonstrating the strength of our leadership and the importance of making space to rest and renew.
We reintroduced the Foundation’s Speaker Series as New Mexico Faces in Philanthropy, featuring two high school students and their perspectives on community, philanthropy, and how their generation is shaping the future.
After a year of work between the Development Team and President & CEO, the Foundation finalized a $5 million shared fund between the New Mexico Educational Assistance Foundation and the New Mexico Student Loan Guarantee Corporation.
The Linda K. Estes Giraffe Award ceremony returned, honoring activist Tina Cordova, founder of the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium and the Trinity Downwinders.
We hosted the inaugural Wine & Dine donor event—an evening dedicated to community, connection, and inspiring a legacy of giving through endowment and estate planning education.
Trolley Tours returned as a new dynamic day of collaboration, learning, and listening with the nonprofit community, renamed as our innovative Community Cruise.
Started the reimagination of the Foundation’s long-standing signature event, the Great Grant Giveaway, by engaging with donors, nonprofit partners and community to gather insight and input on the event’s future.
We hosted a free three-day workshop focused on grant writing, in partnership with The Grant Plant, Nusenda Credit Union, and the Carl C. Anderson Sr. and Marie Jo Anderson Charitable Foundation.
We sponsored two opportunities for nonprofit leaders to participate in the inaugural Board Builders Symposium presented by The Board Pro.
Support the Foundation
Support the Community
Since 1981, we’ve been on a mission to serve our community by mobilizing and stewarding resources to create equitable opportunities for all. We’re about supporting Albuquerque and the surrounding four counties by teaming up with donors, nonprofits, funders and community leaders.
From scholarships to housing support, we’re making sure that resources reach those who need them most. No donation is too big or small—when we pool our resources, the impact is not just significant, but also inspired and forever.