Our Difference
a foundation focused on human services and medical care
The St. Joseph’s Community Foundation offers grants and assistance to health organizations, human centered charities, individuals studying or working in healthcare, and medical centered programs and initiatives.
Meet our Board of directors
The Foundation has given back to the people of the Red River Valley for over 20 years, and our Board of Directors is the backbone of that service. The Board is composed of 18 members with experience in the medical community, led by our dedicated officers.
Louisa Kessel
Louisa has served as the Executive Director of St. Joseph’s Charity Foundation for 13 years, and has been involved with the foundation for 18 years. Contact Louisa at (903) 272-7284 or sjcfparis@gmail.com.
Kristi Head
Board Chair
Rochelle Bass
Board Vice Chair
Tracy Dougherty
Board Past Chair
The sisters’ mission
In the 1860s, the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word came to Texas with a mission to serve the sick and vulnerable. At the request of the Bishop of Dallas, a group of sisters later traveled to Paris, Texas to respond to the community’s growing need for quality healthcare. Guided by their commitment to compassionate service, they established St. Joseph’s Hospital and quickly became a vital source of care and support for the region.
That spirit of service continues today through the St. Joseph’s Community Foundation. Building on the sisters’ legacy, the foundation works to improve the health and well-being of the community by supporting programs, partnerships, and initiatives that expand access to care and promote healthier lives throughout Lamar County.
A legacy of impactful giving
Since becoming an independent foundation, we have left a substantial impression on the medical care in our community.
20+
Years of Giving
$2.6M
Donated
492
Donors
Since 2021
135
Educational Grants
Since 2021