Conleth Kennedy, Board Member
CFK Foundation presents “Meet the Board”, providing a chance for our donor base to get to know us and why we are so passionate about what we do!
Conleth Kennedy, Board Member
Favorite color: Purple
Favorite food: Pizza & Ice Cream Cake
Favorite Sport: Hockey
Vacation Spot: Beach or Mountains? Beach for sure
How did you become involved with the CFK Foundation?
As Colin’s younger brother, the idea of honoring his legacy, while also providing support to our communities, seemed like a no-brainer. What started off as a lighthearted idea, simply discussed in passing, blossomed behind the passion of Bill Kaser and our founding board members. That passion has been compounded by the board members we have added since the inception of our organization.
What is it that motivates you to give back to your community?
There is so much talent and intellect in the world, which is unfortunately stifled by circumstances outside of an individual’s control. Attempting to bridge that gap, and unlock that potential, is what motivates me to give back. I know that I would not be where I am today without the opportunities provided to me in my life; my hope is to replicate that for those who may not have access to or awareness of opportunities for growth and success.
What challenges do you see for our future generations?
Like the generations before them, there will be many challenges that they will face; yet I am confident that future generations will be equipped to overcome these obstacles. It is up to us to ensure that we begin paving the road for them, mitigating the strain, while we are still here and able to deconstruct obstacles and construct better pathways for those who follow behind us.
What brings you gratitude in life?
Seeing the positive impact and possibilities I can create or share in the lives of others.
How do you define success?
I believe that success is measured in your ability to have a lasting, positive, and profound impact on as many people as possible. I am not one for quotes, but one quote that has always stuck with me from, Horace Mann, is: “Be ashamed to die until you have won some victory for humanity.” That reference of “victory” is how I would define success, as it leaves it open to individuals to decide what their personal victory is.
Why is it important to you to give back?
It does not always take a lot to make a lasting influence; often, one small act of kindness or generosity can have a long-tailed rippling effect. Giving back was instilled in me from my grandparents, my mother, and my father, and it had always been part of my upbringing. It was not until I was older that I truly grasped the true value of those examples and actions; when you give back, you are directly investing in your community, creating value, longevity, and sustainability.
What does “community” mean to you?
It is the ability to lean on each other in times of need, share amongst each other in times of prosperity, and support the endeavors of others.
Who inspires you?
Inspiration can come from so many places; I feel as if everyone in this world can provide others with inspiration in some form or fashion. Two inspirations that come to mind for me are the selfless individuals of the world and our scholarship recipients, I am so excited to see their potentials turn into successes.
How do you prepare yourself to overcome hurdles professionally & personally?
Often taking a step back and evaluating the larger picture. Perspective can be the swiss-army knife for all the setbacks or hurdles one will face in life.
If you had all the money in the world, what would you do with it?
Figure out how I could impact the greatest number of people with it.
What does the next 5 years for the CFK Foundation look like?
The next 5 years is looking extremely promising, because of the continued support we receive from those in our communities! I would love to see us expand to additional communities, broaden our annual scholarship base, and find creative ways to extend program funding. I fully anticipate looking back in five years and seeing our scholarship recipients in a great place (and more of them), our communities better off, and our momentum as an organization in overdrive.