Our History & Governance • Raymond Davis Foundation

Who We Are

The GEN Raymond G. Davis Templar Foundation (RDF) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization recognized by the Internal Revenue Service. In 2006, RDF was established to support the humanitarian objectives of the Grand Priory of the United States of America of the Sovereign Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem (SMOTJ), a 501(c)(10) fraternal order dedicated to helping Christians at risk in and around the Holy Land, and to keeping the pilgrim roads open to all people of faith.

RDF serves as the distribution vehicle for funds collected by the Grand Priory from its members annually, making distributions to designated entities. Further, RDF independently administers a scholarship and grant program funded by contributions and legacy gifts made to it directly.

RDF is governed by an elected Chairman and Board of Directors consisting of 15 individuals, one of which is by rule a member of the Davis family. The Board convenes at least annually and more often as needed.

There is also a permanent volunteer staff which is responsible for day-to-day operations. This includes an Executive Director, a Chief Financial Officer and two Scholarship Program Co-Chairs. The Chairman appoints an Investment Committee, headed by the Chief Financial Officer, to oversee the financial performance of an endowment fund, and retains the services of a professional investment manager. In addition, RDF utilizes a bookkeeping firm and CPA to ensure proper handling of finances and tax reporting.

Neither Board members or the Officers receive compensation—all serve in a voluntary capacity to support the mission and purposes of RDF and SMOTJ. Over 96% of funds received go directly to the Holy Land.

Meet Our Board

RDF consists of a Board of Directors and several Officers who conduct its programmatic and administrative activities.

Our Leadership