You love where you live.
We want to help you create a legacy here that will last for generations.
What is Planned Giving?
When you hear the term “planned giving,” you are hearing a way to describe gifts that take a little more direction beyond writing a check or donating online. A planned gift can be a current gift, a deferred gift, or a split-interest gifts.
Why Work With Us
Resources
Free Webinar June 17th @ Noon: Join Attorney Judi Wilson for an inspiring and practical look at charitable giving that truly makes a difference. Discover smart strategies to align your giving with your values—while also reducing taxes and cutting costs. Whether you’re passionate about supporting your community or building a lasting legacy, you’ll learn how to craft a personalized giving plan that leaves a meaningful mark.

Questions?
Mandi Olson
President/CEO
molson@winonacf.org
507-454-6511
Please note: The Winona Community Foundation does not provide legal, accounting, or tax advice. Each situation is unique and donors are asked to check with their own advisors regarding their personal situation.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy in Winona: Real Stories
Ramona L. Jezewski
Ramona L. (Ladewig) Jezewski English lived a lifetime in the Winona area yet traveled widely, leaving her mark not only on people in Winona, but all around the world. Because of a gift designated in her will to the Winona Community Foundation, she will be giving back to Winona, and the people she loved, far beyond her lifetime.
Wilmer & Beverly Larson
In 2012, the Winona Community Foundation was informed that they were named a beneficiary of the Wilmer L. Larson and Beverly A. Larson last will and testament. Because of this gift, the Foundation was able to reestablish the Community Grant program. Through a quasi-endowment, this fund has infused $297,500 into the Foundation’s Community Grant Program and still has about $100,000 left!
Carol A. Orlowske
In 2023, the Foundation was honored to receive an unexpected estate gift of $246,000 from Carol A. Orlowske, a lifelong Winona resident, former board member of the Foundation, and a dedicated professional at WNB Financial’s Trust Department. The Carol A. Orlowske Endowed Fund was established, with the annual proceeds dedicated to supporting the Community Grant Program in perpetuity. For 2025 alone, this fund will contribute an additional $13,200 to support local nonprofits – and continue to support this cause, forever.
Donna Helble
As part of her will, Donna made a specific gift to the Winona Community Foundation with the direction to establish a special interest fund for promoting literacy of youth in Winona. Donna is no longer with us, but her passion for education and literacy will live on through her generous gift. The Foundation will carry her torch forward and continue to promote children’s literacy in Winona by awarding grants through this fund.