The following post comes to us from Maree Bullock, Vice President of Alford Group, and wife of the late Jimmie Alford. We couldn’t think of a better way to ring in 2016 than to remember Jimmie’s contribution to our lives and the nonprofit sector, especially its future leaders. Enjoy the rest of 2015 and we’ll see you in the new year. Cheers.
Dear Colleagues —
We create legacies throughout our lives — Some we choose — Others choose us!
Several years ago Jimmie chose to teach, mentor and coach the future generation of leaders in the nonprofit sector. He was very intentional about that goal. In a formal way he taught at North Park University and Notre Dame University. Informally he mentored and coached hundreds — never turning down a request or an opportunity to explore career opportunities in the sector with those seeking his advice and counsel.
A few weeks ago, I hosted 5 Alford Scholars currently receiving financial assistance from the Jimmie R. Alford Scholarship Fund at North Park University. During our lunch together each scholar 
shared their life story — their adversities and struggles — their determination to create their own legacies in the sector. Much of what they shared mirrored Jimmie’s own challenges and struggles. Each of the scholars learned about Jimmie’s life, determination and impact.
Today there is $250,000 in the Jimmie R. Alford Scholarship Fund. Fourteen scholars have benefited to date. Each year four new scholars benefit from the Fund.
As I write this I ask myself “What legacy am I intentionally creating? How lasting and impactful will it be?”
What legacy are you intentionally creating?
Merry Christmas and happy New Year to each of you! 2016 provides a new year to create new legacies and enhance already-created legacies.
Maree G. Bullock