10/06/2026
JustFundKY welcomes Paul Croley and Lisa Whipple to Board of Directors.
New board members bring experience, advocacy and a shared commitment to advancing LGBTQ+ equality across Kentucky.
LEXINGTON, Ky. — JustFundKY is pleased to announce the appointment of two new members to its Board of Directors: Paul Croley of Lexington, Kentucky, and Lisa Whipple of Seattle, Washington.
The appointments bring new perspectives, experience and leadership to JustFundKY as the organization continues its mission of advancing fairness, justice and opportunity for LGBTQ+ Kentuckians through strategic philanthropy.
“Paul and Lisa both understand that meaningful change requires more than good intentions. It requires investment, relationships and a willingness to stand alongside the people doing the work,” said Brandl Skirvin, JFKY Board Chair. “They bring very different experiences to this board, but they share a deep commitment to creating a Kentucky where LGBTQ+ people can live openly, safely and with dignity. We are thrilled to welcome them.”
Paul Croley:
A Lexington resident, Paul Croley brings a strong commitment to community, service and philanthropy to the JustFundKY board. His appointment strengthens the organization’s connection to Central Kentucky while adding a thoughtful and engaged voice to its statewide work.
“I’m honored to join JustFundKY and support an organization that understands the power of investing directly in communities,” Croley said. “Real progress happens when we give people and organizations the resources they need to turn ideas into action. I’m excited to help strengthen that work across Kentucky.”
Lisa Whipple:
Lisa Whipple, of Seattle, is a philanthropist and advocate for transgender people and the broader LGBTQ+ community. Her appointment expands JustFundKY’s network of advocates and supporters beyond the Commonwealth while bringing an important perspective to the organization’s work supporting LGBTQ+ Kentuckians.
“As a Kentucky native and the parent of a transgender child, supporting LGBTQ+ Kentuckians matters to me because equality cannot depend on geography,” Whipple said. “Every person, regardless of where they reside, deserves to live authentically, safely and with the support of their community. I’m proud to join JustFundKY and invest in the people and organizations building that future throughout the Commonwealth.”
JustFundKY, a $2.8 million endowment, has invested $748,000 in 94 organizations since 2011, reaching every county in Kentucky. The fund supports educational and community-based initiatives that raise awareness, foster belonging, and advance equity for LGBTQ people statewide.
The addition of Croley and Whipple comes as JustFundKY continues to expand the reach and impact of its philanthropic work, connecting donors with organizations and leaders working on the front lines of LGBTQ+ equality.
“Especially at this moment, supporting LGBTQ+ Kentuckians requires all of us,” Brandl Skirvin, Board Chair said. “Paul and Lisa understand that philanthropy can be more than generosity. It can be a tool for building power, protecting people and creating lasting change. We are grateful to have them at the table.”
JustFundKY remains committed to building a Kentucky where all people, regardless of identity, can live openly, safely, and with dignity.
