Kimberly Elmhorst has been a committed volunteer in our community for decades, from her time at Florida Southern College to her service on numerous nonprofit boards. In addition to GiveWell Community Foundation (GWCF), those include Bonnet Springs Park, Junior League of Greater Lakeland, Lakeland Regional Health Systems, and United Way of Central Florida (UWCF).
Kim has also served in various roles with other organizations, including First Presbyterian Church, Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine, Lakeland Vision, Lakeland Assemblies Cotillion Club, and Lakeland Yacht & Country Club. She is also a graduate of Leadership Lakeland Class 28. Among Kim’s many awards are: 2023 United Way of Central Florida Citizen of the Year, 2020 United Way of Central Florida’s George W. Jenkins Volunteer of the Year Award Recipient, Junior League of Greater Lakeland Spirit of the League, Junior League of Greater Lakeland co-Provisional of the Year, and AFP National Philanthropy Day Award Recipient.
Kim’s involvement with GWCF began when she joined the Regional Council in 2017. Prior to becoming Chair for 2024-2026, she has served in the following roles: Vice Chair, Project Coordinator of United Community Needs Assessment, Events Committee, Regional Council Chair, Grants Committee, and Nominating Committee.
As Kim begins her term as GiveWell Community Foundation Board Chair, we asked her to share about her experience and vision for the future:
Can you share a bit about your background and community involvement?
I graduated from Florida Southern College with a BA in Communications in 1990. During my time there, I was not only in a sorority but also served as the Student Government President. Both of which helped me to learn about servant leadership and giving back. After working in higher education, I left the workforce in 2000 to raise our daughter Kelsey. Kale was born soon after and I found a need for an outlet outside the home and decided that volunteering my time would fit the bill. I joined the Junior League of Greater Lakeland and served in several leadership roles including President in 2010-2011.
How has your involvement with GWCF evolved over the years?
In 2019, while serving on both the GWCF and UWCF boards, I was asked to organize a joint meeting with the then President and CEO of each organization. I decided that meeting with their respective leadership teams might be more effective, so I met with staff regularly for the next couple of years. These initial meetings were valuable in that it further enhanced the lines of communication between both organizations. Serving the same tri-county area and also cultivating relationships with the same donors/fundholders, it only made sense.
What are some of the key achievements of GWCF during your time on the board?
I might be a bit biased, but, of course, I believe that the collaboration between GWCF and UWCF is a major achievement. It sets an example for other organizations on what a difference we can make if we set aside our own agendas and work together. We all have the same goal!! Let’s make this community better for all!
Are there particular challenges you foresee for the organization?
Proposed IRS changes could be a huge challenge, but it sounds like officials are at least listening to the experts in the field for guidance. Monitoring the ever-changing landscape of tax laws and philanthropy is important for GWCF and other industry leaders.
Education, Education, Education…. this is a continued effort… for the entire community including non-profits, estate planning professionals, potential fundholders, etc.
As the new board chair, what is your vision for the future of GWCF?
I believe that educating the next generation of philanthropists should be one of our major goals. The misconception in the community is that GWCF is set up only for the wealthy. Our community is so generous, and many could use the services and guidance of GWCF to not only give to the nonprofits of their choice but to address the greatest needs in our community.
GiveWell Community Foundation should be looked to as an expert in knowing the greatest needs in the tri-county area. I think that GWCF is doing a great job in positioning itself as it moves from a transactional community foundation to a more transformational one.
