ETF and Thompson Charitable Foundation

Some of the most meaningful work in philanthropy happens when organizations bring their unique strengths around a shared vision.

In 2026, the East Tennessee Foundation (ETF/Foundation) began a new three-year partnership with the Thompson Charitable Foundation (TCF), creating an opportunity to grow its philanthropic impact across Appalachian communities.

Established in 1987, the Thompson Charitable Foundation was founded by B. Ray Thompson Sr., a leader in the U.S. coal industry and developer of the Thompson non-recovery coke oven process. Reflecting the concerns and interests of its founder, TCF supports projects that seek to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities in 10 Appalachian counties.

Through its partnership with ETF, the Thompson Charitable Foundation can leverage ETF’s expertise in strategic philanthropy and grantmaking to support nonprofits serving Anderson, Blount, Knox, and Scott counties.

This expertise is where strategic partnership comes to life.

ETF brings decades of experience in grantmaking, a deep understanding of community needs, and established processes for connecting philanthropic resources with organizations doing meaningful work. This partnership allows ETF to provide the structure, knowledge, and community insight needed to make the most impactful grants possible.

The first grant cycle through the Thompson Charitable Foundation Fund at ETF awarded $250,000 to 17 nonprofit organizations in July 2026. The projects and programs funded focus on areas that promote community and economic development, education and workforce development, health and human services, and/or improving the quality of life.

For ETF, this partnership represents more than awarding grants.

“The Thompson Charitable Foundation Fund reflects what is possible when philanthropy and community come together with a shared vision,” shared Dr. Keith Barber, President & CEO of ETF. “The 17 organizations funded are doing meaningful work to address local needs. We are grateful to partner with the Thomspon Charitable Foundation to help make lives better and communities stronger in Appalachian communities for generations to come.”

Strategic partnerships like this allow philanthropy to go further by combining resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to strengthening the communities we call home.