At Truman Heartland Community Foundation, we are honored to work with individuals and families who have made this commitment through the Heartland Legacy Society—a growing community of donors who are using their estate plans to make a lasting difference.

A Growing Legacy of Local Impact

Since its founding in 2011, the Heartland Legacy Society has welcomed more than 200 visionary donors—everyday people who’ve taken one simple step: naming Truman Heartland as a beneficiary in their will, trust, retirement account, or life insurance policy.

Whether their gifts support scholarships, parks, education, the arts, or vital community services, each member has chosen to give back in a way that will live on for generations. Their generosity is already creating ripples of impact—and will continue to do so long into the future.

How It Works

Becoming part of the Heartland Legacy Society is simpler than you might think. There’s no minimum gift required, and no need to give today.

Most members start by:

• Including a bequest in their will or trust
• Designating a fund at Truman Heartland as a beneficiary of an IRA or life insurance policy
• Creating a "shell fund" that will be activated with a future gift

Whether your plan includes one nonprofit or several, a legacy gift allows you to make a meaningful difference with the resources you’ve built over a lifetime.

Why Join the Legacy Society?

• 🕊 Preserve your values
  Support the causes that matter most to you—and make your intentions known.
• 💼 Simplify your giving
  Support multiple nonprofits through one coordinated plan.
• 💡 Gain peace of mind
  Know that your gift will be stewarded responsibly and used according to your wishes.
• 📚 Educate and engage the next generation
  Involve your family in philanthropy and pass along your giving values.

Legacy in Action

In 2009, James D. Browning made a planned gift to establish a permanent endowment fund supporting nonprofits in Lee’s Summit. His original fund of $907,000 has since granted more than $722,000 to local organizations and is projected to give $3.7 million over the next 50 years. By 2025, the total balance of the endowment accrued to $991,000.

That’s the power of one legacy gift—multiplied over time.

There is no minimum requiring for establishing planned giving and joining the Legacy Society. Additionally, we can help you discuss options for establishing a named fund. 

A Lasting Invitation

If you’re thinking about how your estate can reflect your life’s values, we invite you to explore the Heartland Legacy Society.

You don’t need to be wealthy. You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need a vision for how your giving can continue “for good, forever.”

💬 To learn more, visit thcf.org, talk with your financial advisor, or reach out to our team. We’re here to help you shape a legacy that honors your values and benefits the community you love.