HOUSTON, 22 October 2025 — Billionaire philanthropists Nancy and Rich Kinder are reaffirming their lifelong commitment to give away nearly all their wealth, about 95% of their US$11 billion fortune, to causes that enrich the city they call home.
The couple, Houston’s wealthiest residents, confirmed their pledge in an interview with ABC13’s Melanie Lawson, emphasising that their fortune would go primarily towards parks, education, and the arts through their long-running Kinder Foundation.
“Whatever wealth you accumulate is really the result of a lot of other people helping you along the way,” said Rich Kinder, co-founder of Kinder Morgan. “Our goal has always been to leave the world a little better than we found it.”
Image credit: houston.culturemap.com
A US$10 Billion Legacy of Giving
The reaffirmation came as the Kinders broke ground on a US$18.5 million expansion of Emancipation Park in Houston’s historic Third Ward. The project, spearheaded by the Kinder Foundation, will add a new outdoor performance stage and a renovated cultural centre, preserving one of the city’s most important community landmarks.
Since establishing the foundation in 1997, the Kinders have played a transformative role in shaping Houston’s landscape. Their funding has revitalised public spaces such as Buffalo Bayou Park, enhanced public libraries and schools, and supported community programmes across the city.
“It’s really the heart of Third Ward,” Rich Kinder said of Emancipation Park, noting that the site has been central to Houston’s Black community for generations. “It needs to be enhanced and preserved for generations to come.”
Redefining Philanthropy at Home
While many billionaires sign The Giving Pledge, promising to donate at least half of their fortunes, the Kinders went even further when they joined in 2011, committing to give away 95% of their wealth. Their philanthropy remains distinctly local in focus, aimed at ensuring Houston remains a vibrant and inclusive city for future generations.
Nancy Kinder added a personal touch to their mission, saying she hopes her grandchildren will “be proud” of the family’s legacy and carry forward its spirit of giving.
A Vision Rooted in Community
The Kinder Foundation’s work continues to strengthen the city’s social fabric, supporting projects that balance urban growth with cultural preservation. The ongoing Emancipation Park expansion is expected to be completed by June 2026, ahead of the park’s annual Juneteenth celebration.
As Houston evolves, the Kinders’ influence is visible not just in its skyline but in the renewed vitality of its communities, a testament to how targeted, long-term philanthropy can reshape a city’s future.
