Our History

Joyce C. Hall was born on August 29, 1891, in David City, Nebraska. A plainspoken individual, he was raised with a deep respect for hard work and an unwavering commitment to quality. Mr. Hall came to Kansas City in 1910, and, starting with a shoebox full of cards and a rented room at the YMCA, began the business that was to become Hallmark Cards, Inc. In 1921, Joyce Hall married Elizabeth Ann Dilday. Together they built a life dedicated to family and community.

In 1943, Joyce and Elizabeth Hall, along with Joyce’s brother Rollie B. Hall, created the foundation that continues to nurture and strengthen the city they loved. As outlined in the original bylaws, they intended that the Hall Family Foundation should promote: the health, welfare and happiness of school-age children; the advancement and diffusion of knowledge; activities for the improvement of public health; and advancement of social welfare. These purposes were based on a family resolve to help people and enhance quality of life. More than 70 years later, their legacy lives on.