Governance
The Avyn Craig Memorial Foundation is committed to transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of every donation entrusted to us.
Organizational Documents
IRS Determination Letter
The IRS Determination Letter is the official document issued by the Internal Revenue Service recognizing The Avyn Craig Memorial Foundation as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable organization. This designation confirms that eligible donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law and verifies our nonprofit status.
Certificate of Formation
The Certificate of Formation is the legal document filed with the State of Texas that officially established The Avyn Craig Memorial Foundation as a nonprofit corporation. It outlines the Foundation's legal name, nonprofit purpose, registered agent, and organizational structure, serving as the official record of the organization's formation.
Foundation Bylaws
The Foundation Bylaws establish the governing framework for The Avyn Craig Memorial Foundation. They outline the roles and responsibilities of the Board of Directors and officers, meeting procedures, voting requirements, governance practices, and the policies that guide the organization's operations and decision-making.
Organizational Documents
kristen Craig
Following the loss of her son, Avyn, Kristen founded The Avyn Craig Memorial Foundation to transform grief into lasting impact. What began as a promise to honor Avyn's life has grown into a mission dedicated to recognizing character, removing barriers, and creating opportunities for students and families.
Kristen leads the Foundation's vision, strategic growth, partnerships, and national initiatives, ensuring every program reflects Avyn's legacy of kindness, resilience, and service. Her hope is that no family feels alone in grief and that every act of generosity inspires others to Just Keep Walking.
Co-Founder | President | CEO
lacy yackel
Lacy oversees the Foundation's daily operations, programs, and community initiatives, ensuring that every effort reflects our mission and serves families with compassion and purpose. She leads operational strategy, volunteer engagement, partnerships, and organizational growth while helping transform ideas into meaningful impact.
With a heart for service and a commitment to excellence, Lacy works to ensure that every scholarship awarded, every pair of shoes donated, and every family supported honors Avyn's legacy. She believes that lasting change happens through consistent action, genuine relationships, and the courage to Just Keep Walking.
Vice President | COO
rayna craig
As Avyn’s sister, Rayna brings a deeply personal connection to the Foundation’s mission. She supports day-to-day operations by coordinating administrative tasks, maintaining organizational records, assisting with programs and events, and helping ensure each initiative is carried out with care and purpose.
As Secretary, Rayna also supports the Foundation’s governance and documentation. Her work helps preserve Avyn’s legacy while creating meaningful opportunities for the students, families, and communities the Foundation serves.
Secretary | Operations Coordinator
randel craig, jr.
As Avyn’s father and Co-Founder of the Foundation, Randy helps ensure that Avyn’s life, character, and legacy remain at the heart of the organization. As a member of the Board of Directors, he provides governance, strategic guidance, and support for the Foundation’s programs and long-term growth.
Randy is committed to honoring his son by helping others move forward through compassion, service, and opportunity. His leadership reflects the Foundation’s belief that even through unimaginable loss, purpose and hope can continue to grow.
Co-Founder | Director
kaleb van kampen
As Avyn's youth pastor, Kaleb witnessed firsthand the impact Avyn had on those around him. Following Avyn's passing, Kaleb proposed establishing a scholarship in his honor—a conversation that ultimately became the catalyst for creating The Avyn Craig Memorial Foundation.
Today, Kaleb serves on the Board of Directors, helping guide the Foundation's mission while ensuring it remains rooted in faith, character, and service. His passion for investing in young people and recognizing lives of integrity continues to shape the Foundation's scholarship program and its commitment to creating lasting opportunities for others.
Director
allie craig
Allie has been part of the Foundation's story from the very beginning. Her love for Avyn and the impact he had on her life continue to inspire her commitment to preserving his legacy. Although life has brought new chapters, she remains a cherished member of the Craig family and an important part of the Foundation's mission.
As Director at Large, Allie supports the Foundation through community engagement, special projects, and outreach initiatives. Her unique perspective and unwavering dedication help ensure that Avyn's legacy continues to bring hope, opportunity, and compassion to others.
Director at Large