A Bigger Life for the Littles

Bonnie and John Leinart of Moline are hands-on people who have enjoyed successful careers-she with Trinity Health Systems, and he with John Deere. When choosing recipients for charitable giving, they prefer hands-on, helpful organizations-especially Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley.

Both John and Bonnie have acted as "Bigs" (adults who mentor children) and both have served on the board of Big Brothers Big Sisters. John has served as board chairman and in doing so helped foster the rapid growth of the organization. During his nine-year tenure, the organization grew from 200 to 1,700 "Bigs," helping the same number of "Littles" (the youth they serve) in 13 counties. The programs continue to grow.

"Directly helping children is the best investment people can make in their community," says Bonnie. Together, she and John decided to work with the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend to remember Big Brothers Big Sisters in their will. By including the Community Foundation in their estate plans, the Leinarts are part of a distinguished group of individuals belonging to CFGRB's Legacy Society. Their estate gift will establish a permanent endowment called the Big Brothers Big Sisters Foundation Endowment at CFGRB. That fund will provide annual support in perpetuity to Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley to carry out its important work. Because the gift is unrestricted, the organization will have the flexibility to meet whatever needs may exist at that time.

John said, "We are blessed with healthy children and grandchildren, but there are so many kids out there at risk, who need adult guidance. This group's screening process ensures safe and wholesome relationships, from which children can really benefit. We are happy to help future Littles with this gift. And our own children have been part of this decision to give back to the community."