The Givens Foundation was honored to recognize and celebrate members of the Givens Legacy Circle during a lovely afternoon reception held on the grounds of the beautiful Givens Estates Manor House.
As some of the Foundation’s most devoted and visionary supporters, Legacy Circle members have established a lasting legacy through planned gifts and endowment gifts that will strengthen and sustain the Givens mission for generations to come. Their generosity is helping shape the future of Givens Communities, supporting growth, innovation, and excellence across all campuses through initiatives that will enhance the lives of residents for years to come.
The gathering was an inspiring occasion of fellowship, gratitude, and reflection, bringing together Givens leadership and Legacy Circle members in celebration of their enduring commitment and generosity. Guests enjoyed delicious fare prepared by the Givens Estates dining team alongside selections from Asheville Charcuterie Co. and were treated to a special performance by the Asheville Symphony, whose music provided an elegant and memorable backdrop for the afternoon.
The reception also featured remarks from leaders across the Givens family of communities. Executive directors from Givens Estates, Givens Highland Farms, Givens Affordable Communities, and Givens Aldersgate shared how Legacy Circle donors are making a meaningful impact on their campuses today while helping to secure an even stronger future. Together, they highlighted the transformative power of philanthropy to enhance resident experiences, expand services, improve facilities, and support the organization’s long-term vision.
During the program, Givens Communities CEO Kevin Schwab reflected on the essential role philanthropy plays in creating communities that go beyond meeting basic needs to truly enriching the lives of residents.
“Philanthropy is the difference between a building that meets the standard and a place where people actually want to live.”
Schwab noted that the generosity of Legacy Circle members extends far beyond bricks and mortar. Through their support, Givens Communities is able to innovate, pursue new opportunities, and invest in programs and projects that might otherwise not be possible.
“Generosity lets us take risks. With philanthropic support underneath us, we can try the program with no proven revenue model. We can build the space before we can prove the demand. We can be the ones who go first instead of the ones who wait to see how it went for someone else. Innovation in a nonprofit is almost always somebody’s gift, arriving before the evidence did. It’s planting without being certain what will grow.”
Schwab concluded his remarks with a powerful reminder that the true impact of philanthropy is often felt by future generations who may never know the names of those whose generosity made it possible.
“Ten years from now, someone will move into a new home at Estates. Someone at Highland Farms will receive the care they need. An older adult at Webster Village will find safe, affordable housing. And someone will find comfort in a chapel space when they need it most. None of those people will know our names. They’ll simply benefit from the generosity of those who came before them. Thank you for planting.”
The reception served as a meaningful reminder that every planned gift represents more than a future contribution. It is an expression of confidence in the mission of Givens Communities and a commitment to ensuring that future residents have access to compassionate care, vibrant communities, innovative programs, and opportunities to thrive.
The Givens Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to all Legacy Circle members for their foresight, generosity, and unwavering dedication to the future of Givens Communities. Their legacy will continue to strengthen the organization and enrich countless lives for generations to come.
To learn more about joining the Givens Legacy Circle and creating a lasting legacy that will support future generations, visit: https://givensfoundation.org/our-supporters/#legacycircle.
Learn more about Givens’ partnerships and impact in the community at givensfoundation.org/news.
