The Christopher Donell Childs Memorial Fund Grant

The Christopher Donell Childs Memorial Fund Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: The Community Foundation of Rappahannock River Region, Inc
Last Updated: January 16, 2026

Summary

Overview

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg. Scholarships One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds. The Christopher Donell Childs Memorial Fund This fund was created in memory of Christopher Donell Childs. Christopher was one of a kind and full of life. He was intelligent, witty, and humorous with infectious laughter. He was one of six children born and raised in Spotsylvania County by his beloved parents Louis and Virgie Childs. He was so loved and adored by his family and friends. Christopher attended Courtland High School with Honors, and he used his God given athletic abilities to play football, basketball, and track. Later in life, he learned to love the game of golf. His academic and athletic talents would then gift him a full scholarship to William and Mary to play football. He graduated with a biology degree, but he soon recognized his passion was in business and understanding finances. His future and spiritual influenced father in love, Rev. Douglas T. Pinkard (see Rev. Douglas T Pinkard Scholarship Memorial) introduced him to a communication company, where they both thrived. Christopher then married his high school sweetheart, Vanessa Pinkard Childs. Their union was blessed by two children Alexander, later married to Carly Childs, and Brittany later married to Tavon Harris. Christopher went on to become a Vice President of Verizon and dedicated thirty-four of his years to advance the company. At the age of 59, two months after retirement and enjoying his passion of golf, Christopher was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. His courage and determination to support others through this journey was to be commended. He loved the Lord and would be obedient to spreading the gospel before going home to our eternal Father. His legacy and strong values will live forever. Four weeks after his passing, he would be blessed to have his first grandchild, Hudson Christopher, who will carry on Christopher’s God given principles and his last name-Childs.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website.