Melissa Toon to Join The George Foundation After Leading Central Fort Bend Chamber
A familiar Fort Bend County leader is moving from the center of the local business community into a role focused on nonprofit partnerships and special initiatives across the county.
Melissa Toon will conclude her service as President and CEO of the Central Fort Bend Chamber and join The George Foundation as its Director of Special Programs, according to a joint announcement from the two Richmond-area organizations.
For residents, business owners and nonprofit leaders, the transition keeps Toon’s experience and community relationships working close to home. Her new position will involve overseeing initiatives intended to improve quality of life in Fort Bend County through collaborative programs and strategic partnerships.
A New Role With a Familiar Community Focus
Toon’s move connects two organizations that serve Fort Bend County in different but often complementary ways.
The Central Fort Bend Chamber works to support the local business community, encourage economic growth and improve quality of life through business assistance, education and community programs. The organization received five-star accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in 2023, a designation tied to organizational practices and community impact.
The George Foundation, meanwhile, is a place-based charitable foundation whose grants, scholarships and community programs are concentrated in Fort Bend County. Its mission is to partner with the community and use its resources to positively affect local residents. (The George Foundation)
“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve the Central Fort Bend Chamber and its members,” Toon said. “While this next chapter is bittersweet, it is one that allows me to continue serving the community I care deeply about in a different capacity. I leave knowing the Central Fort Bend Chamber has a dedicated board, an outstanding team, and a strong foundation for continued success. The work of both organizations ultimately serves the same purpose of making Fort Bend County an even stronger place to live and work.”
Toon Helped Build Momentum at the Chamber
Toon was named president and CEO of the Central Fort Bend Chamber in December 2025 following a nationwide search. Before moving into the organization’s top leadership position, she had served as its programs director since 2024.
During her tenure, the Chamber said Toon worked with its board, staff, volunteers and members to strengthen internal operations, increase member engagement and position the organization for continued progress.
That work placed her in regular contact with business owners, public officials, nonprofit representatives and other community stakeholders throughout Richmond, Rosenberg and the broader Fort Bend County area.
Chamber Board Chair Kyle Atchison said the organization has a transition plan in place and remains focused on its ongoing work.
“Melissa has made a meaningful impact during her time as President and CEO, and we are grateful for her leadership and the positive momentum she has helped create,” Atchison said. “We are confident in the Chamber’s future. Our Board has a thoughtful transition plan in place, and our commitment to serving our members and advancing the business community remains stronger than ever.”
What The George Foundation Does in Fort Bend County
Established in 1945 by Albert and Mamie George, The George Foundation was created to give back to the Fort Bend County community. Its roots are closely tied to the George family’s ranching history and to families who settled in the area as part of Stephen F. Austin’s “Old Three Hundred.”
Today, the Foundation supports nonprofit organizations serving local residents, along with scholarships and special programs. Its grantmaking priorities include education, health and wellness, basic needs, senior services, abuse and neglect prevention, and assistance for underserved or uninsured residents.
In 2025, The George Foundation reported providing more than $20 million in charitable support, including $17.4 million in direct grants to 103 nonprofit organizations serving Fort Bend County.
The Foundation also operates programs such as Youth in Philanthropy, which introduces Fort Bend County high school students to nonprofit service, grantmaking and community leadership. Its wider community presence includes the historic George Ranch, a 20,000-acre working ranch where students and visitors can explore two centuries of Texas history.
In her new position, Toon is expected to help guide special projects that bring organizations together around shared community needs.
“We are excited to welcome Melissa to The George Foundation,” said Roger Adamson, CEO of The George Foundation. “Her experience building relationships across Fort Bend County, bringing organizations together, and leading community initiatives makes her an exceptional addition to our team. Melissa’s passion for service aligns closely with our mission, and we look forward to the impact she will have as Director of Special Programs.”
What Happens Next for the Central Fort Bend Chamber
The Central Fort Bend Chamber Board of Directors will begin identifying the organization’s next president and CEO while continuing its current programs and strategic priorities.
Toon will work with Chamber leadership during the transition in an effort to maintain continuity for members, staff and community partners.
Although the move marks a leadership change for the Chamber, both organizations described it as an example of Fort Bend County’s interconnected business and nonprofit community. Toon will be leaving one leadership post, but her work will remain centered on many of the same residents, organizations and long-term community priorities.
Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for updates on the Central Fort Bend Chamber leadership search and other developments affecting Fort Bend County businesses, nonprofits and families.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
