New Fund Spotlight: The Barb Wise & Family Fund

When the Solomon Valley Community Foundation was established in 2013, it was built by a group of local leaders who believed in the long-term power of community philanthropy. They understood that by creating a foundation rooted in stewardship, local decision-making, and thoughtful investment, they were laying the groundwork for something that could grow in both resources and impact over time.

Thirteen years later, that vision has become a reality. Today, the foundation stewards a portfolio of funds, supporting charitable causes across Mitchell County and the surrounding region- while continuing to grow for the future.

One of those original leaders was Barb Wise, a founding board member who continues to serve the foundation today. Barb's lifelong commitment to community service reflects the same forward-thinking mindset that helped shape the foundation in its earliest days.

Barb spent her career working at OCCK, Inc., an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across north central Kansas. Through her work, she collaborated closely with families, nonprofits, and community partners, gaining a deep appreciation for the essential role local organizations play in strengthening quality of life. That experience continues to inform her approach to service and philanthropy.

Though Barb is now retired, her dedication to community remains strong. She continues to volunteer and serve on multiple boards across the region, always looking for ways to give back and support causes that matter most.

That same spirit of service inspired Barb to establish the Barb Wise and Family Fund, a donor-advised fund at the Solomon Valley Community Foundation.

"I started the fund at Solomon Valley Community Foundation because I'm proud of Mitchell County and the resources it provides for its residents." Barb shared. "This fund creates a way for me, and for my children and grandchildren, to continue supporting the organizations that are near and dear to our hearts. Establishing this fund is one small way I can support our community now and into the future."

The Barb Wise and Family Fund is structured as a donor-advised fund, one of the most flexible charitable giving options available through the community foundation. Donor-advised funds allow individuals or families to make charitable contributions, receive immediate tax benefits, and then recommend grants to nonprofit organizations over time. Donor-advised funds are also endowed, meaning they are invested for long-term growth and sustainability. This investment approach enables the fund to make annual grants while preserving its principal, ensuring that it can continue to support charitable causes indefinitely. It's a way of viewing philanthropy as a long-term investment, one that generates meaningful returns for the community year after year.

“I chose to invest in a donor-advised fund with SVCF because it allows me the flexibility to support the causes I care about most today, and in the future, while creating a lasting legacy that will benefit generations to come," Barb explained.

A defining feature of Barb's fund is reflected right in its name: family. Donor-advised funds can be structured to include successor advisors, allowing children or other family members to step into advisory roles over time. This creates opportunities for shared decision-making, meaningful conversations about values, and the chance for future generations to grow in their own philanthropic journeys.

For Barb, this was an important part of her vision. The fund provides a way for her children and grandchildren to remain connected to Mitchell County, to learn about giving back, and to continue supporting organizations that reflect their family's shared values.

At Solomon Valley Community Foundation, every fund is personal, and every legacy is unique. Whether donors are passionate about education, healthcare, faith-based organizations, youth programs, or meeting emerging community needs, donor-advised funds offer the flexibility to respond as priorities evolve.

That's why we say: Your Family. Your Fund. Your Foundation.

When you establish a fund with SVCF, it truly is your fund, designed around your goals, your values, and your vision for impact. Our role is to serve as your foundation, providing stewardship, local expertise, investment management, and administrative support so your generosity can create lasting change.

The Barb Wise and Family Fund is a meaningful example of how thoughtful planning, a commitment to service, and a love for a community can come together to create a lasting legacy, one that will continue strengthening Mitchell County for generations to come.

At SVCF, we believe in the 'Your Family, Your Fund, Your Foundation' motto, and best of all, you don't need millions of dollars to get started. Many fund options, including donor-advised funds, have a $10,000 minimum with the ability to reach that level over 5 years.

To learn more or explore options, reach out to Executive Director Julia Rabe, who would be happy to visit with you and help you think through the possibilities.