Build Your Legacy with YWCA Northeast Kansas
This Women’s History Month, we’re honoring the women who built the YWCA legacy of advancing equity and justice for all women. For over 135 years, YWCA Northeast Kansas has been strengthening the greater Topeka community through services, programs, and advocacy. We’re part of a network of YWCAs that represents one of the oldest and largest women’s organizations in the world whose leaders include prominent civil rights activists, globally renowned educators, entrepreneurs, lawmakers, and advocates and supporters like you. You can be a part of YWCA’s 135-year legacy and beyond by preparing a planned gift to benefit our organization and advance our mission of eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.
Dotty Hanger: A YWCA Legacy Builder
Last September, our community lost a powerful advocate and supporter. Dorothy Anne “Dotty” Hanger died at the age of 92. She achieved so much in her life, graduating from Washburn University, raising a family with her husband of almost 70 years, owning her own business, founding a residential facility for low-income adults with physical disabilities, and serving as president, board member, and chair of resource development for YWCA Northeast Kansas from 1976 to 1978.
"Dotty Hanger never wavered in her commitment to YWCA’s mission from her tenure on the board, to decades beyond of serving and supporting. She would recount tales of the unique challenges of spearheading a capital campaign for a women’s organization in the seventies, and the creative tactics she would employ to garner donations in a male-dominated business community. Dotty remains an inspiration to us all, and we are grateful for her gritty determination and generosity to the cause.” - CEO, Kathleen Marker
One of the most impactful things that Dotty accomplished was making sure that her work continued after her death. She left a planned gift that enables YWCA Northeast Kansas to continue the work she so loved for years to come. After her death, a generous gift was made from her estate. This amount of money allows us to continue to meet the increased need for our services with flexibility and innovation, and without sacrificing the quality of services that we provide.
What Is Planned Giving?
Planned giving, often called estate giving or legacy giving, is a contribution made through one’s estate after their death. Planned gifts can be designated through a will, a life insurance plan, or a retirement account by naming YWCA Northeast Kansas as a beneficiary. Individuals designate a specific dollar amount, a non-cash asset, or even a percentage of leftover funds after the estate is distributed. If you are interested in learning more about planned giving and how you can build your legacy with a planned gift to YWCA Northeast Kansas, contact Allison Marker, Director of Community Engagement by email or call 785.233.1750. We also encourage starting the conversation with your loved ones and a legal or financial advisor. Not ready to start your planned giving journey? Make a donation today.
More About Our Work
YWCA Northeast Kansas serves over 7,500 individuals each year. We provide safe places for survivors, strengthen families through quality, affordable childcare, build strong women leaders, and advocate for women’s rights and civil rights at the local, state, and federal level.