Cars for Kids is proud to welcome Luis Gonzalez as our new Director of Development, a milestone addition to our leadership team as we continue to expand our impact and invest in the future of the students we serve. 

Luis brings over three decades of nonprofit leadership and fundraising experience, with a proven track record of building meaningful relationships and advancing mission-driven organizations. Over the course of his career, he has helped raise approximately $30 million in support of education, arts, culture, and community-based initiatives—experience that will be invaluable as Cars for Kids enters an exciting new chapter. 

Born in El Paso, Texas, Luis relocated to North Texas to pursue his academic journey, earning a BBA in Marketing from the University of North Texas, followed by both an MBA and a Master of Arts in Arts Administration from SMU. His education, combined with his strategic mindset, has shaped a career centered on sustainable growth and donor engagement. 

Most recently, Luis served as Director of Philanthropy at Commemorate Air Force. Prior to that, he held leadership roles at respected institutions including the Frontiers of Flight Museum, Dallas Winds, and Dallas Children’s Theater. His earlier work also includes development and advancement roles with the Center for Nonprofit Management, YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas, The Dallas Opera, and the City of Dallas, where he worked within the Office of Arts and Culture and the City Attorney’s Office. 

At Cars for Kids, Luis will play a critical role in advancing our development strategy, strengthening donor relationships, and supporting the long-term sustainability of our programs that directly benefit students at Texans Can Academies. His leadership will help ensure that the resources needed to remove barriers for students—whether academic, emotional, or financial—continue to grow. 

We are thrilled to have Luis join the Cars for Kids family and look forward to the leadership, passion, and vision he brings to our mission. Please join us in welcoming him to the team as we work together to create brighter futures for students across Texas and beyond. 

Contact information:

972-274-5437 | lgonzalez@carsforkids.org