1. To teach the values of social responsibility and philanthropy to future generations of McClenons. The descendants of Walter H. McClenon are a diverse group of people encompassing many different careers, personal philosophies, and political views. Walter believed that it is important to take responsibility for the world in which we live, to learn about its problems and to be proactive in trying to help solve them. Thus, the most important goal of the WHM Fund is to ensure that current and future generations of McClenons have the opportunity to learn about social responsibility and philanthropy, through the evaluation and selection of causes to receive our financial support as well as through interaction with other trustees who will share their different perspectives, knowledge, and wisdom.

2. To provide a mechanism for creating long-term family bonds between members of the McClenon family. Because our family is diverse, not only in careers and philosophy but also geographically, there are not a lot of opportunities to maintain strong family ties across generations. The WHM Fund represents an opportunity for family members to meet cousins, aunts, uncles, and others so that we can establish and maintain bonds across generations Because we have such a diversity of beliefs and opinions, it is also an opportunity to interact with people who have different points of view, to debate and discuss topics of mutual interest, and to broaden our views and perspectives on a variety of issues.

3. To honor the memory and philosophy of Walter H. McClenon and Paul McClenon. Most of WHM’s descendants alive today never had the privilege of meeting him. Yet, by his belief in the importance of social responsibility and his vision in creating the Fund, he created a great opportunity for all of us to remember him and ensure that his commitment to affecting positive change in the world is passed on to future generations. This tradition was continued by WHM’s son Paul, who carried on the tradition of the Fund by serving as its President and setting a great example of personal commitment to improving the lives of others.

4. To facilitate some positive changes through our work and financial contributions to designated causes. We will identify organizations that are consistent with our bylaws and deemed important by our trustees. Organizations selected for contribution should be efficient in their use of funds and should be of such a size that our contributions can make a difference.