Our Founders

The mission of the Hall Family Foundation, established in 1943, stems from the original purposes of its founders: Joyce C. Hall; his wife, Elizabeth Ann Hall; and his brother, Rollie B. Hall. As outlined in the original bylaws, they intended that the Foundation should promote…the health, welfare and happiness of school-age children…the advancement and diffusion of knowledge…activities for the improvement of public health…and advancement of social welfare. These purposes were based on a family resolve to help people and enhance the quality of life. Almost 70 years later, their legacy lives on.

Joyce C. Hall was born on August 29, 1891, in David City, Nebraska. He was a plainspoken individual with a respect for hard work and an unwavering commitment to quality. Mr. Hall came to Kansas City in 1910, and, starting with a shoebox full of cards and a rented YMCA room, began the business that was to become Hallmark Cards, Inc. In 1921, Joyce Hall married Elizabeth Ann Dilday. Together they built a life dedicated to family and community. Together they created the Foundation that nurtures and strengthens the city they loved.