Generous by Design: How the Gordon Flesch Charitable Foundation Puts Giving to Work
Focus on Outcomes
What does it look like when a company puts its money — and its people — where its values are?
In this episode, Jeff sits down with Kelly Moran, President of the Gordon Flesch Charitable Foundation, for an honest and personal look at what corporate giving can actually mean for a community when it's done with intention. Kelly spent over 38 years building the sales organization at the Gordon Flesch Company before retiring in 2023 — and ten months later, he was back. This time leading the foundation that's become one of the most meaningful parts of the company's identity.
What we cover:
● How the Gordon Flesch Charitable Foundation was born in the aftermath of 9/11
● Why the company's owners made the deliberate decision to put grant-making power in the hands of employees — not ownership
● What reviewing 200+ applications a year teaches you about the depth of need in local communities
● The My Team Triumph story — and why it stands out among years of incredible grant recipients
● The difference between being grateful and being generous (and why it matters)
● What Kelly wishes more businesses and individuals understood about the impact of even small contributions
● How 501(c)3 organizations can apply for a grant — and what the process looks like start to finish
● The one value Kelly has tried to lead with throughout his entire career
Whether you're involved in corporate philanthropy, leading a team, or simply looking for a reason to believe that local giving makes a real difference — this episode is worth your time.
"It's one thing to be grateful for what you have. But if you're not generous with what you have, then we're missing out." — Kelly Moran
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