Table of Hope Society: Shirley's Story

For ten years, the Table of Hope Society has been a pillar of profound commitment in the fight against hunger. Established in 2015, this group of dedicated donors have generously chosen to include Second Harvest Heartland as a part of their will or estate plan, fueling our mission and nourishing our communities. Since its inception, the Table of Hope Society has collectively provided millions of meals to those facing hunger.

Shirley, a Table of Hope Society member, has been a Table of Hope Society member since her retirement. "I worked for Cargill for 36 years helping to feed the world through my work there. I learned how important good nutrition is as a foundation for work and education."

After her and her husband's retirement, they determined it was a good time to update their wills. "We agreed on the amount of 'cushion' we want to provide for our kids, and the remainder is given to specific charities or put into a charitable trust to be administered by our kids."

Shirley is a strong believer that everyone should have a fair chance to achieve self-actualization. She subscribes to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, of which the first tenet is that physiological needs must be met, of which food is an integral part.

"In my opinion, philanthropy needs to address all of these lower level needs."

Following her retirement, Shirley donates both her time and money to a multitude of causes, including Second Harvest Heartland. "I have always wanted to leave the world a better place than when I came into it. I don't feel that I have gotten there with my paid and volunteer work and donations to date, so I am happy and comforted to know that I can still have an impact."

Please join us in honoring Shirley, and all of the members of the Table of Hope Society. Together, we can ensure a brighter, hunger-free future for our community. 

To learn more about the Table of Hope Society and explore planned giving opportunities, visit our website at 2harvest.org/plannedgiving.