Stevensons Recognized for Philanthropy

Press Release Legacy Foundation

Louise Stevenson and the late Glen Stevenson were honored with a reception given by the Legacy Foundation on Wednesday, December 18, 2019. The Stevensons are the fourth recipients of the “Spirit of Humanity” Award. “We were thrilled to have this opportunity to recognize The Stevenson’s generosity in our community,” stated Yazmin Wood, Executive Director of Legacy Foundation, “Their philanthropic work, civic leadership and volunteerism truly inspires the vision of Legacy Foundation in action.” The come-and-go reception was held at Joseph’s Storehouse located at 424 North Main, Burden.

In a recent interview when asked how they came to be community-minded and philanthropic, “We don’t feel like we did anything that anyone else wouldn’t have done,” replied Louise, “We just cared about the people.” Glen and Louise (Eastman) Stevenson were both born and raised in Cowley County. The Stevensons were nearly lifelong residents of Cowley County until two house fires precipitated moves to Derby and Rose Hill. They chose to spend the years of their retirement serving the communities in the county they love and call home.

Following graduation from Winfield High School, Glen began a 42-year career at Cessna Aircraft. He often volunteered his time with various organizations supporting young people, such as Junior Achievement and coaching youth sports. Also a Winfield High School graduate, Louise devoted herself to raising their four children and participating in their activities including serving as Room Mother and Boy Scout Den Mother. Through the years, Louise held various jobs in retail and banking developing talents she would later put to work through her volunteerism.

Upon retirement, Louise began to volunteer her time at a small thrift store in Burden with others from her church family of Tisdale United Methodist Church. Using her vast knowledge of retail sales and her penchant for organization, Louise helped Joseph’s Storehouse become a thriving business. In order for it to provide for community needs, it became necessary for the store to expand. That is when Glen stepped in, helping to secure a location and kick off a successful fundraising campaign. The new building was constructed – debt free – at 424 North Main, Burden.

Glen served as President of the Board of Directors while Louise managed the store for over 17 years. “They worked tirelessly as a team, never seeking praise or recognition for themselves,” wrote the nominator, “they worked to insure that Joseph’s Storehouse remained true to its purpose to respond to distress calls and to create communities of love, justice, mercy, health, wholeness and hope. Glen and Louise Stevenson have been active and involved, setting a good example and making a positive impact on their community.”

Sadly, Glen passed away in May 2019. Louise remains active on the Board of Directors and is available to help in the store when needed. The legacy of their work lives on as Joseph’s Storehouse continues meeting the needs of individuals and families in eastern Cowley County and beyond.

The Legacy Foundation board of directors established the “Spirit of Humanity” award in 2016. It is the desire of the board of directors to recognize community members that inspire by their action the vision of Legacy Foundation that creates a stronger future for our area by building endowments, providing informed leadership and connecting donors to the critical needs of the region. Nelson Mandela is credited with saying, “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” The Stevensons are a significant example of people that have made a difference in the lives of others, especially in Cowley County.

For more information call 620-221-7224 or email yazmin.legacy@yahoo.com.

About Legacy Foundation:  Incorporated in 1996, Legacy Foundation is a 501(c) 3 non-profit philanthropic organization that is regional in its focus.  Legacy has the distinctive mission to grow area philanthropic and nonprofit efforts by connecting donors with critical needs in our community, instilling informed leadership and building endowments to create a stronger, healthier and more prosperous region.  For more information visit our website www.legacyregionalfoundation.org, find us on Facebook, or call 620-221-7224.