Phyllis Hanse – Endowment / Bequest

Phyllis Hanse was a beloved member of Webster, South Dakota and taught piano lessons there for many years. She passed away in 2016, leaving a legacy of generosity for the Webster community that will last for generations to come.

"She was a kind and loving woman who lived a modest and meaningful life," said Tom Sannes, former piano student of Phyllis and Chairman of the Day County Community Foundation. "She made a big difference for our community's youth and understood the value of frugality."

Phyllis was an only child herself with no children of her own but was a favorite among Webster School students. She would frequently attend local youth sports and events and was passionate about supporting youth education and other programs.

She also was an active and engaged member of the local St. John's Lutheran Church in Webster and was a large part of their music program.

In June 2017, the Day County community announced they had received a $4.2 million estate gift from the former piano teacher. The dollars are endowed with the South Dakota Community Foundation and Phyllis' passions are reflected in her wishes for the endowments.

Her estate established four funds for the Day County area. One will be utilized to support the St. John's Lutheran Church in Webster. In line with Phyllis's passion to support youth education, the second and third funds will provide scholarships for youth in the area based on criteria that she established. The fourth and final fund was established for the City of Webster to support the public library and youth programs in the area at the recommendation of the Day County Community Foundation.

"It's an amazing gift," said Sannes. "It's going to be a game-changer in the community for decades to come."

Through SDCF, Ms. Hanse was able to provide a long-term funding source to the community, charities and nonprofits she cared about most. Her love for the Webster community will live on through these endowment funds and she will be remembered forever.