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CFNM News

Rethinking legacy: Balancing gifts to heirs with the community’s future

Next time you meet with your estate planning attorney, it may be a good idea to check in on your long-term plans and ask yourself questions you might not yet … Continued

Imagine the future, how The Community Foundation helps bring your charitable goals to life.

It’s hard to believe that spring is in full swing and 2026 is approaching the midway mark! As always, The Community Foundation team is here to share practical insights and … Continued

Tax season debrief: Three common regrets

If you’re like many donors, the weeks leading up to tax deadlines tend to bring charitable giving into sharper focus. You may have finalized contributions, gathered documentation, or had conversations … Continued

People who Care

Donors

John and Robin Cocke Spread Generosity from Clarksdale, MS

John and Robin Cocke are long-time champions of Northwest Mississippi, giving generously from their hometown of Clarksdale. Their philanthropic spirit and commitment to community impact have made them treasured friends of the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi.

President Keith Fulcher first introduced them to the Donor-Advised Fund, emphasizing how it streamlines charitable giving. The GoFund portal makes the process simple and convenient, enabling them to easily support the causes they care about most.

Faith & Community Roots

The Cockes have been active supporters of St. George’s Episcopal Church, particularly in areas of health, education, and youth ministry. Their deep connection to faith and service continues to inspire others in their community.

Innovative Giving

Under the leadership of Stacye Trout, the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi became the first community foundation in Mississippi to accept Bitcoin—and John and Robin were the very first to step forward and make a donation in cryptocurrency. This visionary act not only supported local programs but also set a bold precedent for innovative giving.

Wide-Ranging Philanthropy

Through their generosity, the Cockes have extended support to a variety of programs that strengthen Northwest Mississippi and beyond, including:

  • CARE’s Animal Rescue
  • Mississippi Early Learning Alliance
  • Mississippi Public Broadcasting Foundation
  • Mid-South Food Bank
  • Spring Initiative
  • Teach for America
  • Griot Arts
  • Care Station

Leadership & Recognition

John and Robin remain actively engaged in shaping the future of the Foundation. Their leadership has been celebrated in board meetings, community events, and even at our Crystal Ball Gala where Robin was honored as Margaret Maddox Woman of the Year for her outstanding charitable example.

Investing in the Future

The Cockes also committed matching gift funds for our inaugural The Heart of Mississippi Gives Community Campaign to the CFNM Endowment, amplifying the impact of donors across Northwest Mississippi and investing in solutions for generations to come.

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John and Robin Cocke

"Woman and robin Cocke is one of the most fabulous people we know. she is a giver.

John and Robin Cocke