Amarillo Area Foundation shatters record with $11.5 million raised in Panhandle Gives Campaign

The Amarillo Area Foundation (AAF) announced a monumental achievement for its 2024 Panhandle Gives campaign, raising a record-breaking $11.5 million to support local nonprofits. The success marks a significant increase over last year’s total of $9.6 million and showcases the Texas Panhandle community's deep commitment to philanthropy.

Over a nine-day period, more than 7,000 donors contributed over 10,000 gifts, helping fund more than 230 organizations across the region’s 26 counties. The funds raised during this annual event, which ran from November 20 through November 28, will benefit nonprofits addressing a range of community needs, including education, healthcare, and social services.

A Community Effort

“Really a very exciting campaign. All of these nonprofits worked so hard for this, our staff worked hard, and our community once again showed how much they cared about each other,” said Keralee Clay, AAF Interim President and CEO. “This is what makes the Texas Panhandle such a wonderful place to live.”

Unlike previous years, the 2024 campaign did not set a specific fundraising goal. Instead, it focused on fostering widespread participation across all counties. The record-breaking $11.5 million reflects not only the generosity of donors but also the hard work of local organizations rallying for support.

Building on Success

The Panhandle Gives campaign, an annual tradition, continues to grow in both reach and impact. Funds raised are amplified by a "Stretch Fund," which provides additional dollars to participating nonprofits, ensuring every gift makes an even greater difference. This unique structure has helped the campaign inspire increased engagement year after year.

Holiday Spirit and Beyond

With the campaign now concluded, the Amarillo Area Foundation is gearing up for another major event: a Special Christmas Concert to further celebrate and unite the community during the holiday season. As the AAF and the supported nonprofits prepare to put these funds to work, the impact of this generosity will resonate throughout 2024 and beyond.

This year’s record achievement is a testament to the collective power of individuals, organizations, and communities coming together for a common cause—a hallmark of the Panhandle’s enduring spirit of giving.