FORT SCOTT, Kan, — Lifelong residents of Fort Scott and Bourbon County, Kansas, Robert Gordon and Anna Faye Steele were considered pillars of the community. Their dedication to their neighbors and volunteerism with a variety of local organizations made them cherished and respected leaders to many. The Steeles were always eager to find new ways to support local organizations and causes close to their hearts.
Following their deaths in 2017, the Anna Faye Steele and Robert Gordon Steele Memorial Funds were established through the Fort Scott Area Community Foundation (FSACF) in their honor. Recognizing the enduring influence that their assets could have on the causes they held dear, the Steeles entrusted their legacy to the Community Foundation, thus ensuring that their spirit of giving would carry on.
This year, the two Steele Memorial Funds distributed $286,739 to sixteen organizations. Since their establishment, the funds have provided over $1,196,900 in grants, uplifting the lives of countless individuals within Fort Scott and Bourbon County.
"Bob and Faye's estate, which was a testament to their kindness, now uplifts local charities, churches, and educational institutions," said David Shepherd, FSACF board member and community advocate. "In their vision for a lasting impact, they chose the Fort Scott Area Community Foundation to steward their assets. As we honor the Steeles, we take pride in commemorating their thoughtful contribution, which perpetually blesses our community."
Year after year, a multitude of local organizations have benefited from the Steele Funds. These organizations include The Beacon, Buck Run Community Center, Bourbon County Senior Citizens Center, Evergreen Cemetery Association, Fort Scott Community College (through scholarships), Fort Scott High School (through scholarships), Fort Scott Public Library, Mount Orum Baptist Church, Old Fort Genealogical Society, Redfield Ruritan Club, Uniontown High School (through scholarships), and Uniontown United Methodist Church.
"The Steeles' gift has been a great benefit for the Old Fort Genealogical Society," said Ken Lyon, long-time organization president and current vice president. "We couldn't have accomplished much of what we have done over the past five years if it weren't for funds from the Steele endowments."
In addition to their support for these local institutions, the Steeles' memorial funds have also extended their reach to broader causes. The funds support organizations of national importance, including the American Cancer Society, American Heart and Lung Association, American Lung Association, and Paralyzed Veterans of America.
The initial gift that the Steeles gave to FSACF to establish an endowment is also protected forever. Grants are given only from the earnings of their donation. Thus, it is a gift that keeps on giving.
The Fort Scott Area Community Foundation encourages everyone to consider including the foundation in their will or trust, ensuring that their charitable wishes will continue to positively influence the community for years to come, just as the Steeles did.
For general information about establishing a fund, visit www.FSACF.com or call 620.231.8897.
