A COLLECTIVE LEGACY: William Quarton Heritage Society Luncheon

On June 3, more than 100 members of the William Quarton Heritage Society came together to celebrate a legacy of generosity. Hosted at Indian Creek Nature Center, this event marked the first Society luncheon since 2019 – making the occasion especially meaningful.

The William Quarton Heritage Society recognizes and honors individuals who have made permanent gifts to the Community Foundation. Like Mr. Quarton, these 500+ philanthropists are helping ensure our community can meet future challenges or opportunities. Mr. Quarton felt very strongly that the Community Foundation is a place for donors to come together and have a collective impact on the community.

“In recent years, philanthropy has played a major role in guiding our community through unique challenges,” said Kristi Columbus, Vice President of Development. “After several years apart, it was particularly meaningful to celebrate that legacy together.”

Every member of the Willaim Quarton Heritage Society has a personal reason for making a lasting commitment to our community. To honor this diversity, several members shared their “why,” reflecting on what inspires their giving.

In a symbolic gesture, many attendees were invited to write down why they give through the Community Foundation. These cards were hung from a young burr oak tree, which will be planted in the Indian Creek Nature Center’s labyrinth in honor of the William Quarton Heritage Society.

“A Canadian farmer named Nelson Henderson used to say that the true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit,” said Karla Twedt-Ball, President & CEO. “Future generations will enjoy the shade of this tree, just as they will benefit from the charitable gifts we make today.”

Because of donors in the William Quarton Heritage Society, the Community Foundation will forever be here to respond to Linn County’s changing needs and opportunities.

WHY I GIVE

William Quarton Heritage Society members share what inspires them to give to our community.

 

“The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation helps my family effectively give back and invest in our great community.” ~ Chris Lindell

“I have volunteered at a number of nonprofits and seen the good being done. I have given what I felt I could along the way. I chose to endow so that my giving will continue in perpetuity.” ~ John Wasta 

“We wanted to create a meaningful fund in memory of our son. Through the Foundation and Indian Creek Nature Center, we see our donations helping the education of children.” ~ Terry and Marlyse Strait

“To ensure a future for all in a thriving community.” ~ Kate Minette 

“I support several nonprofits in the area. I want to leave funds that will generate the same amount of giving I am doing now so they can continue the good work when I am gone.”~ John Rodriguez

“’To him who much is given, much is required.’ It gives me much joy to see others succeed—or just to smile.” ~ Eloise Dennis 

“To give back to a community that has given us and our family so much!” ~ Peter and JoAnn Bryant

“To pay back to the community, and more importantly, to pay it forward.” ~ Gordon Baustian

 

Donors can become members of the William Quarton Heritage Society by establishing an endowed fund or naming the Community Foundation as a beneficiary in a will, charitable remainder trust, charitable gift annuity, life insurance policy or retirement fund. Learn more here.