As president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, one of my most cherished times of the year is during our annual Legacy Society Luncheon. Our Legacy Society was founded in order to recognize those forward-thinking individuals who have created future gifts for the charitable causes that are meaningful to them, and during our luncheon we honor and celebrate those who have made an everlasting commitment to philanthropy. We also recognize the members who passed away during the last year.

Yesterday, with candles lit and lights dimmed, I read each name one by one. Each represents a life that was lived with intentionality by a person who believed in the power of giving to others. Lives like Even Collinsworth’s, whose success and appreciation for philanthropy inspired him to pass down the gift of giving to his children and grandchildren; Ted Weiller’s, a former Community Foundation Investment Committee Chair and Board member, who held an incredible passion for the arts and believed that every child deserves a chance at a good life; and Ward Dahlgren’s, whose vision and expertise helped establish the Community Foundation back in 1979. 

It’s difficult for us to say goodbye to friends, but knowing that their lives positively impacted others—one person at a time—makes it easier and serves as a reminder to do what we can with the time, talent and treasure that is afforded to us.

No matter what your individual circumstance may be, each of us has three potential gifts to share: our time, our talents and our treasure. As we go about our days, I hope you consider the chances we are given to be a part of a larger landscape of positive impact in our community and on the lives of those we touch. Legacies are not created when we pass away, but are born when people consciously chose to live the beliefs and values that are important to them. They are shaped by how we choose to connect with others and share the treasured experiences we hold.

Together with my colleagues, I am privileged to be at the intersection of so much good being done in the community fueled by philanthropy. We are truly honored to have been chosen as a trusted philanthropic partner by so many who care so deeply about others and our community. As always, I thank you for your part in being the one to make a difference.

Roxie Jerde is president of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.