Conserving Nature

The idea for a non-profit to benefit the Kingsmill community and its residents was first conceived in 2019. Through conversations with residents, Brandyn Baty began planning a non-profit that would fund special projects within the community she loves, with the intention of helping to launch it once she completed her service on the KCSA board.

 

In 2025, while planning the Preservation Virginia event, Gabriela Fellows communicated with Brandyn and realized they were working on many of the same initiatives in parallel and decided to join forces. Brandyn helped shape the concept and early direction of the organization, then decided to remain focused on fulfilling her responsibilities as a member of the KCSA Board of Directors. As the core team for the new foundation formed, Brandyn transitioned into the role of a resident supporter and advocate, while the founding board members took on the leadership of the Kingsmill Community Foundation (KCF).

 

The initial KCF board members, joined by Andy Fellows, collaborated to develop the Foundation’s three pillars. We reflected on what drew us to Kingsmill, what motivated us to invest in property here, why we have chosen to stay, and what we love most about our community. History, nature, and community emerged as our common themes.

 

• KCF is aware of the need to create priorities and while working diligently to create the nuts and bolts of a non-profit, we know the urgency to save the Kingsmill Plantation site. This created a natural priority that we have pursued relentlessly. 

• KCF was able to achieve “Most Endangered Historic Property” status with Preservation Virginia, which drew enough publicity and reengagement of the preservation community to see some exciting developments into motion. 

• KCF facilitated channels of communication between Conservation Fund and Escalante. 

• KCF communicates with Conservation Fund regarding a planned land appraisal to be performed by an expert in the near future.

• KCF, communicated evidence of significant deterioration of the structural integrity of one of the Dependencies, was able to negotiate emergency repairs to be performed by a qualified craftsman, paid for by the owners.

• KCF with support from the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation was able to identify above structural work needed and referred the above mentioned craftsman to owners 

• KCF is in communications with local and statewide preservation organizations and experts who are supporting our efforts.

• KCF has planned events, and will have fundraisers to benefit the projects in our community

 

We are dedicated not only to saving the Kingsmill Plantation site, but to be the organization that can facilitate projects and receive donations that make a real impact in our community. Our motivation is serving our community and our neighbors.