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| Founder Merle C. Chambers |
Chambers Family Fund is the natural outcome of a family
tradition of philanthropic and civic engagement. Inspired by her
mother who gave generously and actively participated in the community,
Merle Catherine Chambers created
Chambers Family Fund in 1997. She brings a wealth of private sector
skills and knowledge to her work as a philanthropist, having learned
effective business management from her father, Jerry G. Chambers,
a successful executive in the transportation and oil and gas industries.
Merle founded and managed
Axem Resources Incorporated, a privately held, independent oil and
gas company, until its sale in 1997. Under Merle’s leadership
as president and CEO, Axem was a consistent leader in exploration,
development and acquisition projects. As one of the few women CEOs
in a male dominated industry, Merle helped pioneer women’s
leadership in the oil and gas industry. She also served as CEO of
Clipper Exxpress, a family-owned multimodal transportation company.
Actively involved in civic, cultural and philanthropic affairs
in Colorado, Merle has dedicated her time, expertise and resources
to improving the lives of women and families in Colorado, and served
as a national leader in business and philanthropy. In recognition
of her dedication, leadership and innovation in philanthropy, Merle
received the Outstanding Philanthropist
award at the 2002 National Philanthropy Day in Colorado award ceremony.
Merle’s mother, Evelyn Hemmings
Chambers, devoted much of her time and resources to community
participation and charitable giving, setting an early and important
example for her daughter. Evelyn Chambers passed away March 28,
2001 at age 90. In honor of her spirit and generosity, Chambers
Family Fund contributed more than $500,000 in 2001 to organizations
Evelyn supported.
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