The Power of Philanthropy

A long-time teacher, Elaine Adams knew the importance of community and helping ignite leadership in future generations. Elaine was a powerful philanthropist. She desired to inspire philanthropy in others and took special delight in seeing local women step in to roles as philanthropists. She understood the power of giving and answered the call to make a catalytic gift of $50,000 to seed the Willmar Area Women’s Fund and leverage a match from the Otto Bremer Foundation. While Elaine made a huge impact during her lifetime, her gifts leave an indelible legacy that exceeds her lifetime leaving estate gifts to more than 20 organizations and non-profits, including the Willmar Area Community Foundation. Today, her gifts still affect our community, including the new Elaine Adams Lounge at the Willmar High School: a modern media center helping to create connections, inspire collaboration, and foster innovation through the Elaine Adams Donor Advised Fund. Elaine’s legacy teaches many the lesson about how the power of one person can help today and shape tomorrow.