Our values
I. Effective and Visionary Leadership
We believe strong and steady leadership, that is focused on the future and its students, is key to an organization's success.
II. Impact
We seek to fund organizations with a history of data-supported impact.
III. Innovation
At the heart of change is innovation. We are interested in partnering organizations with innovation at the forefront of their mission.
What we fund
The Wellington Foundation is interested in partnering with organizations that:
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Have 501(c)(3) tax exempt status
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Operate within the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area
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Provide impactful educational resources and/or programming
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Are focused on serving students within the K-12 range
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Align with our mission, vision, and values
History
The Wellington Foundation was established in 2025 by Nancy Downing and her daughter, Charlotte Roberts, with a shared vision of carrying forward a family legacy of philanthropy and service.
The Foundation, was inspired by the example set by Nancy's parents, Elizabeth and Tab Williams of Winston-Salem, whose longstanding commitment to civic responsibility, community engagement, and giving back profoundly shaped their family. Their belief in the transformative power of education, and in the importance of ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to thrive, continues to guide the Foundation's work
The Wellington Foundation was created in honor of Elizabeth and Tab and as a means of extending their philinthropic legagy for generations to come. By supporting organizations and initiatives that reflect their values, the Foundation seeks to build upon the example they established and contribute meaningfully to the community it serves.
The name Wellington is a personal tribute to Wellington Road, the street Nancy grew up on.
Team Members
Governing Board
Nancy Downing President, Board Chair
Charlotte Roberts Vice President
Yates Downing Board Member
Tommy Downing Board Member
Michael Downing Board Member