Introducing the W. Duke Kimbrell Center for Philanthropy and Business

The W. Duke Kimbrell Center for Philanthropy and Business recognizes Mr. Kimbrell’s extraordinary contributions to this community. His name on this building not only honors him, but, hopefully, inspires others to live with similar purpose, charity, and compassion.

A lifelong Gastonia resident and World War II combat veteran, Duke Kimbrell led almost every important civic concern and philanthropic initiative in Gaston County until his death. He was especially devoted to the First Presbyterian Church, Gastonia, the Boy Scouts, the North Carolina State School of Textiles, Gaston College, Gaston Day School, and the Gaston Community Foundation. Mr. Kimbrell served as Chairman of the Board of the Gaston Community Foundation in 1989 and was the recipient of the Sims Award in 2000.

About the New Building

Our Purpose

This building is a remarkable opportunity for various nonprofits to join together in one location to encourage collaboration and for the community to easily access their services. Additionally, it provides the nonprofit community with a home for shared resources dedicated to leadership development and capacity building while creating space to come together through shared conference rooms and community space.

The community space encourages philanthropy as well as educates the benefits and history in our community. It creates additional opportunities for bringing together philanthropists and nonprofit leaders to allow for a better understanding of critical issues and to build upon the Foundation’s record of collective impact.

Location

The new building for Gaston Community Foundation is located at 250 S. New Hope Road. This building is the anchor in development of the New Hope Business District corridor; a district of Business, Philanthropy and Healthcare on New Hope Road, stretching from Court Drive to Robinwood Road. The building's southeast location adjoining I-85 provides easy access from all county townships and provides a positive image to visitors to our community.