Galesburg Community Foundation is proud to announce the formalization of its farmland retention program, “Land to Legacy,” made possible through a gift from the estate of Anna Sophia Johnson. Anna’s gift, valued at approximately $8.5 million, marks the largest estate gift in the Foundation’s 20-year history, and includes farmland, which nearly doubles the amount of agricultural land owned by the Community Foundation.
The Knox County farmland owned by Anna Sophia Johnson was a cornerstone of her life and her family’s legacy. As Anna crafted her estate plans, she prioritized preserving the land’s dedication to production agriculture while ensuring her philanthropic passions continued to make a difference beyond her lifetime.
“A significant asset within Anna’s estate was farmland here in Knox County. The Community Foundation has accepted and will maintain ownership of that land,” said Joshua Gibb, President & CEO of Galesburg Community Foundation. “We are honoring the tenant relationship that Anna had, and we will use the income from owning and operating that land to fulfill Anna’s charitable interests.”
Income from the Johnson farm will benefit not-for-profit organizations chosen by Anna during her lifetime, while also allowing the Community Foundation to address emerging regional needs, particularly in the arts community. Additionally, the unique structure of the Community Foundation allows the ability to honor the tenant relationship that Anna had.
“Galesburg Community Foundation provides an opportunity for people to leave a legacy that goes far beyond their lifetime and the Community Foundation is here just for that purpose. Anna’s story is the perfect example of how individuals and families can use estate planning to continue their legacy for the benefit of their community,” commented David Erickson, Board Chairman of Galesburg Community Foundation.
Anna’s inspiring story highlights the power of estate planning in creating a meaningful and lasting legacy. Learn more about her story here: https://yourgcf.org/story_of_impact/annasophiajohnson/
For more information about estate planning or the “Land to Legacy” program, please contact Joshua Gibb or Sarah Grant at 309-344-8898.
