Dream of a Home Fundraiser Recap Spring 2026
Thank You for Supporting Our June 4th Fundraiser
The Cooper Charitable Fundraiser was a big success, raising more than $125,000 this year. John Cooper, our founder, matched that amount, bringing our total to more than $250,000. In comparison, we raised $103,000 last year plus John’s match.
We thank everyone who showed up at John’s home on White Oak Road for the event. It was a special night because his home was once owned by Julia and the late Frank Daniels Jr., the former publisher of the News & Observer, who hosted many political and non-profit fundraisers there. John is committed to continuing this legacy and honoring their spirit of giving back to the community.
Since we first started awarding grants in June 2024, we have issued 164 grants totaling $350,000; helped 333 people secure housing, including 170 children; and contributed $20,000 to the Green Chair Project to help buy children their own beds and provide furniture to families – truly making their house a home.
We couldn’t do this work without our partners – Oak City Cares, the Women’s Center of Wake County, Wake Tech’s Fostering Bright Futures Program, Healing Transitions, the Carying Place, Family Promise of the Triangle, the Lotus Campaign, Henderson Collegiate and Green Chair. We are especially proud that we collaborate with these non-profits instead of duplicating efforts.
We also want to acknowledge our event’s presenting sponsor, Pinnacle Financial Partners, as well as the Conlon Family Foundation, Eliza Olander and Brian McHenry, and Ward & Smith for their generosity.
Executive Director Mary-Ann Baldwin maryann.baldwin@cooperfoundation.com
