The Impact, a giving circle supported by the Community Foundation of West Plains, hosted a celebratory dinner on March 26 at the Historic Post Office Event Center to honor its inaugural grant recipients and the collective generosity that made the awards possible.
The evening brought together Impact members, community partners and local leaders to recognize four area nonprofits, each receiving a $10,000 grant to support their missions. The 2026 grant recipients are:
- Birthday Blessings
- Lincoln School Project
- Sleep in Heavenly Peace
- Christos House
In total, $40,000 in grants were presented through the generosity of 57 Impact members and five corporate sponsors. These funds will strengthen vital services and programs across the West Plains area. Additionally, $5,000 was donated to the Community Foundation of West Plains to support its local efforts.
“The enthusiasm and generosity of our members has been remarkable,” said Josh Cotter, member of the Impact board. “Surpassing our initial goal so quickly reflects a strong community commitment to supporting organizations that make real differences in people’s lives.”
Brian Fogle, past president of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, served as the evening’s guest speaker. Fogle shared insights on philanthropy, community leadership and the power of collective giving to create lasting change.
The Impact also recognized its 2026 corporate sponsors for their support:
- Dave Thomas – Shelter Insurance
- David Gohn – West Plains Bank and Trust
- Andy and Sonja Stauffer – West Plains Propane
- Keely Gale – Jo Coffee Company
- Zack Lashley – FNBC Community Bankers
Founded by the Community Foundation of West Plains, the Impact brings together philanthropically minded individuals to learn about community issues and collectively direct funds to causes.
Community members interested in joining the Impact are encouraged to contact Amy Thomas, affiliate coordinator for the Community Foundation of West Plains, at cfwestplains@cfozarks.org or 417-427-4514.
The Community Foundation of West Plains is an affiliate of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, the region’s largest public charitable foundation serving donors, nonprofit partners and 55 regional affiliate foundations with $549 million in assets under management as of June 30, 2025. The CFO’s mission is to improve the quality of life for everyone in central and southern Missouri through resource development, community grantmaking, collaboration and public leadership.
