Relationships built on trust

by Sue Hafkemeyer
President and CEO

Last fall, dozens of local nonprofits gathered for a philanthropy program and film screening. We watched a powerful documentary that explained how donors can give in ways that offer nonprofits the freedom—and confidence—to change the world. Since then, many more local organizations have shared this vision with their staff, boards, and donors.

This powerful practice and the discussions we’ve been engaging in are known as “trust-based philanthropy.”

Trust-based philanthropy is a giving and grantmaking philosophy built on relationships. By building mutual trust, donors and nonprofits collaborate to radically center and support the needs of their community.

Joyce Paustian and Woody Perkins

At the Quad Cities Community Foundation, we are deeply committed to building these kinds of relationships—in fact, it’s exactly what we’ve been doing for more than 60 years now.

Trust sits at the center of our work—it empowers us to work with donors to fulfill their philanthropic wishes in ways most meaningful to them. For many, that means providing flexible and reliable funding for the support of nonprofit organization missions and operations. For instance, Joyce Paustian and Woody Perkins, whose love for their friends and family inspired them to found the Joyce Paustian and Woody Perkins Endowment Fund. They’ve asked us to help match their wishes and generosity with organizations meeting basic human needs all around our region.

Joyce and Woody have big hearts and a big vision. In a conversation, they told us that, through their philanthropy, they want to ensure “our values live on, making life better in whatever small way we can for those who come after us.” With their generous spirit and their trust in the power of our region’s nonprofits, Joyce and Woody are already helping to support efforts that address issues of food insecurity, shelter, housing, clothing, and emergency needs. Plus, by trusting the stewardship and knowledge of the Community Foundation, their fund is set to grow and continue supporting our community in a way that honors their vision for generations to come.

I recognize that trust like this isn’t built overnight. It comes from decades and decades of strong relationships, transparency, and community commitment. That’s why we work one-on-one with donors, ensuring their giving is aligned with their wishes and values. And it’s why the Community Foundation seeks—and has consistently maintained—the highest standards set by the National Council on Foundations.

Thank you for making us your trusted resource for giving for more than 60 years. As donors, trust-based philanthropy can ignite your giving and create a lasting impact in your community. For nonprofits, consider how you can share this powerful message with your team and constituents. We would love to continue this conversation with you. Give us a call today.