Tracy Souza
“The most common way people give up power is to assume they don’t have any.”
— Alice Walker
We have all experienced times when there seem to be so many problems in the world that we just do not see how we can make any difference at all. Fortunately for this community, Louis and Laura Wenzler just did not see it that way.
Retired from successful Cummins careers, the Wenzlers decided to do something to help people build a better life and created a Donor Advised Fund at Heritage Fund. This humble couple, who prefer to work in the background, put together one of the most thoughtful descriptions of their philanthropic intent that I have ever read.
Deeply religious and desiring justice and peace among all people and respecting the dignity of every human being, the Wenzlers decided to focus the majority of their generosity on Columbus and Brown and Bartholomew counties with the remainder reserved for global causes.
The couple outlined their Guiding Principles and Organizations/Areas of Interest that clearly define options for grants that revolve around religion, social justice, community development and education.
There are some well-known large private and family foundations that would be envious of the thought and planning that went into this fund. From strengthening congregations and outreach to supporting neighborhood revitalization and mechanical engineering education, the Wenzlers’ Strategic Philanthropy focuses on working for a world where all can thrive.
The Wenzlers provide an uplifting and admirable approach to how they choose to make a positive difference in this community and beyond. They have identified what is important to them and how they can make an impact.
Heritage Fund’s “Your Philanthropy. Your Way” is proud to support the Wenzler family philanthropy.
Tracy Souza is president and CEO of Heritage Fund – The Community Foundation of Bartholomew County. Contact the fund at 812-376-7772 to learn more about how they can help you do “Your Philanthropy. Your Way.” Send comments to [email protected].
