Education is a powerful tool that transforms lives, and at Truman Heartland Community Foundation, we believe in the profound impact of providing educational opportunities to local students.

Since 1982, our fundholders have awarded over $7.5 million in scholarships, empowering students to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams. In 2024 alone, our scholarship program awarded $828,181 in scholarships to 334 students through 461 individual awards, thanks to the generosity of our fundholders who established and maintained 173 scholarship funds.

These scholarships represent more than just financial support. They are a testament to the belief in the potential of each student, a way to honor loved ones, and a means to invest in the future of our community. Whether you are passionate about a particular field of study, want to support students from a specific school, or honor the memory of a loved one, establishing a scholarship fund at Truman Heartland Community Foundation is a meaningful way to make a lasting difference.

How You Can Make a Difference

Creating a scholarship fund is a simple and impactful way to leave a legacy. Here’s how you can get started:

  1. Choose Your Fund Type: Start with a gift of $25,000 or more, which can be made using cash, appreciated securities, real estate, or other assets.
  2. Define Your Scholarship Criteria: Work with our experienced team to design eligibility criteria that reflect your values, such as field of study, academic achievements, extracurricular activities, or financial need.
  3. Personalize Your Fund: Your scholarship fund can bear your name, the name of a loved one, or any name you choose.
  4. Select the Award Process: You can choose to be directly involved in the selection process through an advisory committee, or you can leave the selection to our dedicated Scholarship Committee.
  5. Trust Our Expertise: We handle the administrative details, including application management, fund administration, and award distribution.
  6. See the Impact: Each year, your scholarship fund will help deserving students reach their educational goals, creating a lasting impact in our community.

A Legacy of Generosity

The stories behind our scholarship recipients are a source of inspiration. Students who may have never considered higher education are given a chance to pursue their dreams because of the generosity of donors like you. Our scholarship fundholders come from all walks of life, but they share a common commitment to education and a desire to make a difference.  

One of our more recent Scholarship Success stories includes Katie Ameku, who has become a 2025 Rhodes Scholar, and she attributes much of her success to the scholarships received through THCF donors. 

If you are passionate about education and want to create a lasting legacy, we invite you to explore the possibilities of establishing a scholarship fund at Truman Heartland Community Foundation. Join us in empowering the next generation and making a positive impact on our community.

Ready to learn more? Review some of the FAQs about Scholarship Funds here, or contact us to start building your legacy today.

Contact: Cole Eason, VP of Advancement | 816-912-4182