WF ANONYMOUS DONOR GIFTS $180,000 TO NONPROFITS DURING COMMUNITY FOUNDATION WEEK

The third week of November presented a generous surprise to kick-start local initiatives.
Known as Community Foundation Week, November 12-18 recognizes the critical work of community foundations across the country, and coincides annually with National Philanthropy Day on November 15.
To celebrate this season of giving, two of our long-time fund holders, who wish to be known as Mr. and Mrs. Anonymous, approached WF to honor nonprofits that focus on causes important to them.

“Mr. and Mrs. Anonymous asked how they could partner with us to inspire others to give,” said WF Director of Nonprofit and Donor Connections James Woods. “It’s a joy to serve as a vehicle for our donors to support and collaborate with other nonprofit organizations working to meet community needs.”  

WF answered the request and surprised six local nonprofits with a generous contribution made at the discretion of the anonymous couple. The grantees and their gifts – ranging from $18,000 to $65,000 – were revealed one day at a time on WF’s Facebook during Community Foundation Week. Grants totaling more than $180,000 will support the following projects:

Kansas Children's Foundation

• $18,000 gift to purchase a mobile sensory cart with visual and stimulating activities for pediatric neurology patients

Shepherd's Way

• $25,000 grant to support the Independent Living Skills Development Program that helps people acquire the skills they need to live in their home and community

Alzheimer's Association

• $25,000 gift to assist in dementia services, education and programs to individuals and families

Exploration Place

• $25,000 contribution to Health Inside-Out, a new exhibit that will educate individuals on the effects of head injuries and the neurological impact of prolonged exposure to loud noise

Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation

• $25,000 gift for an endowment that will be used to purchase wheelchairs and equipment

Down Syndrome Society of Wichita

• $65,000 grant to develop a food truck that will create hands-on job skill development for adults with Down Syndrome

“These gifts will support unique programs and enhance the quality of life in Wichita and around Kansas,” said Woods. “We’re continually moved by donors like Mr. and Mrs. Anonymous who use their funds to broadly benefit our community and support community foundations at this time of Thanksgiving.”