Courtney Urfer Thompson Unveils New Fund Supporting Mental Health and Conservation Efforts

Courtney Urfer Thompson Unveils The Urfer Thompson Fund

Philanthropist and socialite Courtney Urfer Thompson has officially announced the launch of her latest philanthropic initiative, The Urfer Thompson Fund. This new fund is designed to provide much-needed support for mental health initiatives and conservation efforts aimed at the protection of land and wildlife across the United States.

The creation of the fund is funded initially through the proceeds from a high-profile auction held at Christie's, featuring a stunning collection of Chinese porcelain that belonged to her late grandfather, Thomas R. Vaughan. This significant auction, part of Asian Art Week, raised an impressive total of $7.49 million, showcasing over 100 exquisite pieces from Vaughan's collection. Known for his role as CEO and Chairman of Freeport Minerals Company, Vaughan held a deep passion for ancient porcelain that has now inspired his granddaughter's philanthropic journey.

Courtney expressed her gratitude, stating, “I am thrilled to announce the launch of the Urfer Thompson Fund, and to forge new meaning from my grandfather's remarkable collection of porcelain. These precious artifacts, rooted in childhood memories, act as the foundation for this new endeavor.” She aims to empower non-profits across the country by directing resources from the fund to support their vital work.

The fund represents the next step in Urfer Thompson's long-standing commitment to philanthropy. Over the years, she has dedicated her time and resources to various causes, accumulating extensive experience in both the professional and volunteer sectors. Notably, she was involved in establishing Room to Grow Boston, which focuses on supporting families with babies from low-income backgrounds, an organization she helped start two decades ago. Incredibly, she organized her first fundraising event at the age of 35, which successfully raised $1 million for Friends of Acadia.

In the decade that followed, her fundraising efforts have surpassed $25 million for multiple causes she holds dear. Thompson actively participates in both local and national organizations, including The Wildlife Conservation Society, The Salk Institute, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Moreover, she currently serves on the boards of the Education Foundation of New Jersey and the Women’s Association of Morristown Medical Center.

Beyond her philanthropic commitments, she has also provided consultancy services to several major non-profit organizations, helping them maximize their event profits and develop strategic partnerships in sectors such as fashion and liquor. Thompson has collaborated with numerous high-profile events, including the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer and initiatives at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

In her own words, Thompson reflects, “Volunteering was a part of my upbringing. Helping others is both a privilege and a responsibility I cherish. I am honored to use my experiences in the non-profit sector to take this next step and create meaningful change.”

The Urfer Thompson Fund not only reinforces Thompson's dedication to philanthropy but also helps keep her grandfather's legacy alive. With support from the community and innovative fundraising efforts, she aims to expand her impact on mental health and environmental conservation for years to come.