H.R. No. 1886 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, The El Paso Community Foundation is leading the drive to raise an additional $10 million for the planned children's museum, and it is indeed appropriate to honor this noteworthy organization for its enduring commitment to the city; and WHEREAS, In 1977, the foundation was established as a permanent endowment for the long-term benefit of the area, including far West Texas, southern New Mexico, and northern Chihuahua, Mexico; it promotes local philanthropy and serves as a grant maker and convener, offering resources and expertise in charitable giving to donors, nonprofit organizations, and members of the community; and WHEREAS, The foundation has donated nearly $165 million to the community since its inception, and it has guided numerous major initiatives; in 2006, it partnered with the City of El Paso to restore the Plaza Theatre Performing Arts Centre, which has received a national Preservation Award from the United States Department of the Interior; the foundation produces the annual Plaza Classic Film Festival, which attracts over 40,000 cinema fans; and WHEREAS, Working to ensure that teachers can obtain much-needed school supplies, the foundation sponsors the Classroom Fund; the organization's Border Art Residency allows artists to focus on their work rather than living expenses, and it is partnering with the City of El Paso in the development of Artspace El Paso, which will offer affordable housing for artists, as well as studio and gallery space; and WHEREAS, El Paso voters approved over $19 million in bonds for a children's museum in 2012, and by raising additional financial support, the El Paso Community Foundation is helping to bring this important project to fruition; and WHEREAS, Since its inception, the El Paso Community Foundation has contributed immeasurably to the quality of life in the region, and its philanthropic leadership sets a sterling example for all; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 84th Texas Legislature hereby honor the El Paso Community Foundation and extend to all those associated with the organization sincere best wishes for continued success; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the foundation as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Márquez ______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1886 was adopted by the House on May 7, 2015, by a non-record vote. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House