Give Today 
CFSI Staff
Linda Speed, President & CEO
Linda provides strategic leadership and oversight for all aspects of the Foundation’s operations, programs, initiatives and fund development. She manages board relations, leads fund development efforts, and works closely with donors and professional advisors to create new giving funds. She engages our stakeholders to advance the Foundation’s mission. Linda also guides the Foundation’s fund development, marketing, financial operations, grantmaking strategy, and community leadership activities. Email Linda
Contact me if…
- You’re interested in creating a new charitable fund at the Foundation
- You’re a professional advisor looking to help your clients give through the Foundation
- You have questions about board involvement or fund development opportunities
- You want to speak with someone about the CFSI’s mission or overall strategy
Crystal Melcher, Vice President of Community Philanthropy
Crystal leads the Foundation’s grantmaking and community leadership work, connecting donor and Foundation resources with pressing regional needs. She oversees all competitive grant application programs and grants from individual donor funds, scholarships, and special initiatives. Crystal also serves as a key strategist in building partnerships with regional leaders and nonprofit organizations and driving the Foundation’s role as a convener and catalyst for community solutions. Email Crystal
Contact me if…
- You have a question about CFSI’s competitive grant or scholarship program
- You want to partner on a community initiative or learn more about local needs
- You’re a nonprofit leader looking to collaborate on funding or strategy
- You want to align your donor advised fund with the Foundation’s leadership work
John Elliott, Chief Financial Officer
John manages all financial operations of the Foundation, including accounting, audits, investments, and fund monitoring. He oversees financial reporting, fund statements, banking relationships, and the administration of benefits and insurance. John also provides financial management services to the Foundation’s supporting organizations. Email John
Contact me if…
- You have questions about your fund statement or fund performance
- You want to better understand the Foundation’s investment or audit practices
- You have questions about financial reporting, cash flow, or endowment management
- You’re from a supporting organization needing financial services or reports
Wes Scott, Director of Marketing and Communications
Wes oversees the Foundation’s communications strategy, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. He manages all marketing, advertising, and digital content – including the website, social media, and publications – and leads planning for Foundation events. Wes also directs the production of key materials like the Annual Report and newsletters. Email Wes
Contact me if…
- You need the Foundation’s logo, photos, or marketing materials for partnership
- You have a media inquiry or want to feature the Foundation in a publication
- You have feedback related to the Foundation’s website or social media
- You are interested in attending a Foundation-hosted event
Liz Daugherty, Grant & Donor Services Manager
Liz is responsible for the efficient receipt and processing of donor contributions and grant recommendations from donors and fundholders, ensuring high-quality service and timely support in advancing their philanthropic objectives. She also provides key administrative support for the Foundation’s competitive grant programs and community initiatives. Email Liz
Contact me if…
- You need a tax receipt for your gift or have questions about a recent contribution
- You need help navigating your fundholder portal or services
- You want to know the status of your grant recommendation or the acknowledgement of your gift
Kari Weilbaker, Finance Associate
Kari supports the Foundation’s financial operations through account reconciliation, transaction processing, and report preparation. She handles accounts payable, deposits, and assists with audits and monthly closings. Kari also provides financial reporting support for the Foundation and its supporting organizations. Email Kari
Contact me if…
- You have a question about a payment or invoice sent to the Foundation
- You need to confirm a deposit or receipt of funds
- You have questions about reconciliations or account statements
Margaret Brinkworth, Program Associate
Margaret provides administrative support to the Vice President of Community Philanthropy and coordinates the Youth Philanthropy Council. She also assists with the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program and manages logistics for the Foundation’s high school awards ceremonies. Email Margaret
Contact me if…
- You have questions about the Youth Philanthropy Council
- You’re a school with questions about CFSI’s Scholarship program
- You need assistance coordinating a high school awards presentation or ceremony
Emily Byrd, Office Administrator
Emily provides administrative support to the President & CEO and all Foundation staff. She manages board meeting logistics, maintains office supplies and services, and oversees building management tasks. Emily also directs incoming communications and maintains key internal records and materials. Email Emily
Contact me if…
- You need to speak with or schedule a meeting with the Foundation’s President
- You have questions about the Foundation’s office operations
- You need to report a facility or building maintenance issue
- You’re not sure who to contact at the Foundation