By: Joni Truex
 KLA Public Relations Director

Kosciusko Leadership Academy recently met at the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, which is one of the homes for local philanthropy. Guest speakers were Suzie Light, executive director of Kosciusko County Community Foundation; Peggy Michel, vice president and trust officer of Lake City Bank Wealth Management Division; and Rich Haddad, executive director of K21 Health Foundation.

Light explained that philanthropy is time, talent and treasure given for the benefit of another. A man in Ohio started the first community foundation to allow everyone the opportunity to be a philanthropist, not only the wealthiest individuals. Today, the Kosciusko County Community Foundation has grown from 13 scholarship funds to more than 271 endowed funds with over $50 million in assets. Donors come in all ages and abilities. Gifts don’t have to be sizable to make a difference.

Haddad shared that if you wish to make a one time donation, then a direct gift would be a good option. If you want to support and help over time, an endowment might be a better vehicle. Giving will alter your life and your view of life. When you give, you are modeling giving for others and for your children. Haddad suggested everyone begin giving today and explained the differences between a private foundation (K21) and a community foundation. Over the past 12 years, over $25 million dollars has been granted by the K21 Health Foundation. Over $70 million is available for the future.

Michel explained that leaving a legacy starts with estate planning. Everyone who owns anything needs to have an estate plan, which includes a will. Seventy percent of people die without an estate plan. This can create difficulties for the family members left behind, especially when there are minor children left. Estate planning allows an individual to make their wishes for their estate known and carried out after they have passed on.

KLA is a not for profit organization devoted to serving Kosciusko County by encouraging leaders and future leaders to dream and create a better community through white paper projects.

From left are Suzie Light, executive director of Kosciusko County Community Foundation; Rich Haddad, executive director of K21 Health Foundation; KLA Cadet Summer Zimmer of Kosciusko Community YMCA; Peggy Michael, vice president and trust officer of Lake City Bank Wealth Management Division; and KLA Cadet Joanie Foreman, also of Lake City Bank. (Photo provided)