Leading by Example

Giving runs in the family

During her childhood, Mayor Vi Lyles' parents Robert and Mary Taylor modeled generosity through tithing and supporting their church. Committed to making Charlotte a vibrant city, she continued this tradition of giving.

 

Early in her career, Vi realized that contributions of time and talent were as important as financial contributions. She also recognized the value in contributing what you can when you can, and noted that giving capacity often changes over time.

Over the years, she ensured that giving "became a habit," supporting nonprofits in the fields of education, culture, human services and more. She intentionally passed these values on to her son Kwame and daughter Aisha.

For Vi's 60th birthday, her daughter opened an FFTC Donor Advised Fund to formalize her mother's long legacy of generosity and to pay tribute to the local community her mother continues to impact.

 

Donor Advised Funds