Over the last two years, I have had the privilege of traveling to every single county in our state. From the mountains of north Idaho to the farmlands of east Idaho and everywhere in between, I had the honor of meeting more than 2,000 community-minded Idahoans. In these conversations, one message rang loud and clear: Idahoans take care of their own. It's who we are, and it's what makes our communities special.

Philanthropy in Idaho isn't about grand gestures -- it's about neighbors helping neighbors, enriching lives and ensuring a brighter future for generations to come. It's about people like the quiet donor in East Idaho, who left an indelible mark on his community.

No one knew the extent of his generosity until his passing. It was he who had been slipping envelopes of cash under the high school gym teacher's door to help purchase new wrestling mats. It was he who had anonymously donated to the music education department so students could afford instruments. And it was he who left a bequest to his community, ensuring that future needs could be met. His kindness wasn't motivated by recognition; it was motivated by love for his community.

Idaho communities are full of stories like this. In Grangeville, where the high school's all-class reunion has become an annual fundraising tradition, residents rally around their community fund with unwavering enthusiasm. The Grangeville Community Foundation, established in 2012 as an affiliate fund of The Idaho Community Foundation, has become a vital resource for addressing local needs. Each year, the reunion includes a friendly competition to see which graduating class can raise the most for the fund. This year, the class of 1984 took home the bragging rights, raising an incredible $13,000.

These are the stories that inspire us at The Idaho Community Foundation. Over our 35-year history, prominent Idahoans -- from governors to business leaders -- have directed their philanthropic giving through us. They trust us because of our deep connection to Idaho communities, our personalized approach to philanthropy, and our understanding of the unique challenges faced by nonprofits.

And now, with our merger with the Idaho Nonprofit Center, we're in an even stronger position to serve Idaho communities. Together, we are building a future where nonprofits have the tools, resources and support they need to thrive. This merger ensures that the philanthropic dollars raised in Idaho stay in Idaho, and that they are distributed by those who know their communities best.

What I've learned over the few years is that philanthropy in Idaho isn't just about the money -- it's about the people. It's about the conversations at kitchen tables and the shared commitment to making life better for our neighbors. It's about ensuring that every Idahoan has a chance to thrive, whether they're in a bustling city or a quiet rural town.

Idaho, you've shown me that generosity runs deep in your veins. From the thoughtful bequests of individuals to the collective action of entire communities, you've proven that philanthropy is not just an idea -- it's a way of life. And at The Idaho Community Foundation, we are honored to be part of your story.

Thank you for showing me what's possible when neighbors come together to take care of one another. Here's to a future filled with kindness, connection, and a shared commitment to keeping