Spreading Joy Since 1982
About the Santa Claus Fund
The Santa Claus Fund exists to provide families facing crisis or financial hardship with meaningful gifts, warm essentials, and the message that they are cared for by their community. What began as a small act of kindness has become a deeply rooted tradition of generosity, supported by volunteers, donors, and local partners.
How it All Began
Founded in 1982 by Carol and Dick Travis, Santa Claus Fund began as a grassroots initiative to support local children during the holidays. After witnessing the needs of families experiencing personal hardship—such as medical emergencies, job loss, or housing instability—the Travises took action.
Over the decades, the Fund has expanded to serve hundreds of families annually, all while maintaining the warmth, humility, and community spirit it was built on.
Meet Our
Volunteer Board Members
Our board is composed of dedicated community members who donate their time, energy, and talents to make the holidays brighter for others. They oversee operations, maintain partnerships, and ensure that every aspect of the program runs smoothly.
Robin Fields has lived full-time in Jackson for nine years. She first moved here from Connecticut where she and her husband raised their sons. She was involved in many volunteer and non-profit organizations in Connecticut and was drawn to the Santa Claus Fund several years ago after she had participated in something similar in Connecticut. She is new to the Board, and looks forward to working with the partner organizations and other board members to bring holiday joy to members of our community. She also serves on the Grand Teton National Park Foundation Resource Council. She is a retired attorney, and in he free time, she enjoys all the outdoor activities that Jackson offers.
Kelley was born and raised in Jackson, Wyoming, where snowy holiday mornings with family helped shape her love for community and giving. Inspired by those memories, she’s passionate about ensuring every child in Teton County wakes up to joy and gifts on Christmas morning.
Kelley joined the board of the Santa Claus Fund in 2022, where she contributes by maintaining and updating the organization’s website and technology platforms. Her eye for detail and commitment to clear, efficient systems help the Santa Fund stay connected with donors and families, while continuing to improve the giving process.
Kelley works as an attorney at Fodor Law in Jackson. In her free time, she enjoys skiing and exploring trails and rivers with her dog, Ryder.
Liza Kimmel grew up in Buffalo, NY and yes, she is an avid sports fan. She first moved to Jackson in 1991 right out of college, “just for 1 year.” Thirty-three years later and she is still here. She learned about Santa Fund from a friend about five years ago and immediately volunteered to be a shopper. She previously worked with underprivileged youth for 13 years and recognized how much even a single gift under the Christmas tree can brighten a child’s life. When she is not busy shopping for gifts, she runs her own small business in Teton County. She has two grown children and still loves how excited they get on Christmas morning. Her favorite thing about the holidays is exploring the lakes in the Tetons to find the perfect black ice to skate with friends and family.
What We Do
More Than Just Presents
At the heart of Santa Claus Fund is a deep commitment to personalized giving. We work with referral agencies to identify families who are most in need, ensuring each recipient is carefully matched with a caring volunteer shopper. These shoppers receive anonymous wish lists and purchase items tailored to the children’s specific needs and interests. In addition, we accept monetary donations to support families who go unadopted or require additional support. From the moment a family is nominated to the moment gifts are delivered, our volunteers and board members coordinate every step with compassion and care.
