At Head for the Cure, our mission is to build awareness for brain cancer, raise funds for vital research/clinical trials and patient/caregiver resources, and ignite hope and joy for the brain cancer community. This is all made possible through the generous contributions of our community.
Donor advised funds and family foundations play a pivotal role in this effort, providing sustained support and fostering strong relationships that drive our initiatives forward.

Donor advised funds (DAFs) are charitable investment accounts set up by individuals, families, or organizations. Donors receive an immediate tax deduction when they contribute to their DAF, but the funds can be granted to charities over time. This allows donors to support their preferred causes strategically and flexibly, adapting to changing needs and priorities.
Family foundations, on the other hand, are private charitable organizations established by families with a long-term commitment to philanthropy. These foundations often have substantial endowments and are managed by family members or appointed trustees. They typically focus on specific areas of interest and provide grants to support various initiatives. Family foundations bring a sense of personal involvement and long-term vision to their philanthropic efforts.
Both donor advised funds and family foundations play crucial roles in our mission, providing financial resources and valuable partnerships that enhance our ability to support brain cancer patients and their families.
Get involved!
- Donate: Make a financial contribution to fund our programs and research.
- Sponsor an Event: Partner with us for events like the Head for the Cure 5K.
- Volunteer: Engage with our community by volunteering at events or offering expertise.
To learn more about how your foundation or donor advised fund can support Head for the Cure, please contact Courtney Watson at Courtney@headforthecure.org or 816-200-1732. You can also make a donation online through our secure form at headforthecure.org/donate.
Family Foundation Spotlight
The William G. McGowan Charitable Fund, renowned for its commitment to impacting lives, creating sustainable change, and empowering future generations, has made a generous donation to Head for the Cure for our Head for the Cure 5K – Kansas City. As a long-standing sponsor of this run/walk, they have taken their support to the next level in 2024!
Believing in the power of partnerships, the Fund actively seeks opportunities to collaborate with other organizations to maximize impact. This philosophy of joint efforts aligns perfectly with Head for the Cure’s mission to support critical research and provide resources for those affected by brain cancer.
A Personal Connection
Matt Anthony, Founder and President of The Head for the Cure Foundation, and Brian McGowan, Treasurer of the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund, have been friends for over 40 years.
Brian and Matt exchanged thoughts on what this donation means to both Head for the Cure and the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund.
“It’s more than a donation; it’s part of our commitment to the community,” Brian McGowan shared. “Our family foundation believes in supporting initiatives that bring about real change and create a lasting impact. Head for the Cure embodies this mission through its tireless work in brain cancer research and support. Supporting Head for the Cure aligns with our values, and we are excited to help further their cause.”
In response Anthony stated, “This generous support from the McGowan Family Foundation is a powerful endorsement of our purpose at Head for the Cure. It underscores the impact we strive to achieve and the lives we aim to touch. Our long-standing friendship reflects reflect the shared values of compassion, integrity, and commitment to making a difference. We are truly grateful for this donation.”
About William G. McGowan Charitable Fund
The William G. McGowan Charitable Fund is deeply committed to its mission of addressing critical societal issues through impactful grant-making. With a focus on Education, Human Services, and Healthcare, the Fund seeks to break cycles of poverty and suffering by supporting programs with measurable success and sustainable outcomes.
For more information, visit William G. McGowan Charitable Fund.