About Us
A Family Foundation Rooted in Community
Bridging the gap between families and the resources they need since 2013.
Our Story
Founded by John Rooks Jr., Rooks Family Foundation has been giving back to Durham families since 2013 and became a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2015. We don't just follow good ideas; we start them. We were the first to introduce the Book Bag Buffet, the Essential Christmas Drive and the Durham Education Awards Red Carpet Ceremony.
In our founder's words, making sure children have what they need to succeed is an ongoing process: "No matter if it is school supplies, pajamas or programs, we are going to do our best to do our part." Our name and our logo come from the rook, the steady, protective piece that guards the corners of the board. That's the role we play for the families we serve.
In 2021 we published our first children's book, The Mystery of the Special Soda, created with authors Tamika Morris and Romeo Wall. As always, we continue to do the work to help the community.
See what we do.
Explore the three community programs we started and our R.E.A.L. Leadership Program for youth.