A Timeless Message: Reflections from My First Annual Luncheon

Bridget McKay

Chief Development Officer

Community Foundation for Southwest Washington

The honorees, the impact stories, and all the heart at my first Annual Luncheon made one thing clear: I’d found the right place to contribute my strengths.

Before joining the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington, I was searching for work rooted in the place I call home. I wanted to see the difference I was making, not just in reports or numbers, but in the lives of my neighbors and friends. The luncheon affirmed my choice and left me in awe of this incredible community.

If you missed our big event, or you just want to relive the magic, read on for some key takeaways and highlights from a first-time attendee.

We Need Givers of All Types

Nearly 600 people from all walks of life filled the room—from business leaders and nonprofit champions to caring neighbors and longtime donors. It was a rare moment where an entire community gathered not to raise money, but to recognize and celebrate our roles in contributing to a flourishing southwest Washington.

This year, we brought this idea to life through our Archetypes for Community Contribution. Each of the seven archetypes represents the unique ways we show up for one another in community. From Stars and Seeds to Compasses and Hammers, we all have valuable strengths and perspectives to add. And, when combined, these strengths help us steward our regioneff ectively.You can learn more and take a quiz to find your own archetype.

Stewardship is a Verb

Our program revolved around the concept of stewardship. We highlighted the Seventh Generation Principle, a Native American approach that says our actions ripple out three generations in both directions. We told stories of how forward-thinking leaders and advocates shaped southwest Washington into the place we know and love today.

Our 2025 SW Washington Philanthropy Awards also celebrated a few of our current community stewards. Whether encouraging giving behind the scenes, growing community from the ground up, or supporting nonprofits’ long-term success, their stories show what we can make possible through committed care. Read more about Lisa Lowe, Ian Thompson, and Kate Jones and Marty Rifkin to see what I mean.

This tradition of caring for our community is something we all take part in, and many have partnered with the Community Foundation to do so. Those contributions have added up in extraordinary ways. Together, we granted a record-breaking $32.1 million and grew total charitable assets to $401 millionin 2024. This is the power of collective giving. And the power of legacy.

Legacy is Our Message

Our giving demonstrates our values in action and defines our purpose. Over time, these gifts of all kinds guide the direction of our community and create our legacy. And many people have partnered with the Community Foundation to help pave the way toward a flourishing future, even after their lifetimes.

Establishing a charitable gift in your will or estate plan is about purpose, not a dollar amount. And the Community Foundation is a collaborator in bringing your vision to life. We’ve partnered with Longview educators who established an endowed gift to support scholarships and the nonprofits they loved. We helped a veteran and world-class marksman design a bequest that supports educational goals for survivors of domestic violence. A message he shared with us before his passing captures what legacy is all about.

“A dream is more powerful than a thousand realities.”

As I said from the podium, stories like these send a message to future generations, showing them what we valued most—things like accessible education and the ability to build dreams that transcend our trauma. We can all plan a legacy that turns passion into lasting purpose. So, when you’re ready, I hope you’ll reach out—we’d love to help you craft your message.

Give for the Next Generation

What do we owe to future generations? That question came up time and again as we considered the legacy we’re leaving for those who will one day call southwest Washington home.

For me, Nichole June Maher’s keynote offered a clear direction for anyone working to strengthen their community. She spoke about the need for humility in philanthropy and reminded us that those closest to the challenges often hold the best solutions. Her words challenged us to listen more deeply, to let go of perfection and to trust community wisdom.

“Our legacy isn’t defined by control or certainty,” she shared. “It’s defined by care, courage and curiosity—especially when things get hard.”

That message will echo in my mind, and I know it will spread out into the community through the ways we show up for others. Because while the event may be over, our future giving will continue to write a message. Matt Morton said it best in his closing remarks.

“Every generation must contribute to extend the message far beyond their time. So, let’s leave today thinking about those who will one day read this chapter. They are the reason we’re writing what’s next— and they deserve a fitting tribute!”

If you joined us this year, thank you for being part of the Annual Luncheon. You helped make my first one incredibly meaningful and memorable. And if our message inspired you and you’re ready to explore your role in this work, I would celebrate the opportunity to collaborate.