Stewardship that Builds Lifelong Donors

Intentional relationship building can transform annual contributors into lifelong supporters by aligning mission impact with meaningful engagement. In this session, we will examine how stewardship differs in both small and large community contexts, where legacy commitments require deeper trust, sustained engagement, and highly personalized communication.

Attendees will leave with actionable tools to cultivate gratitude, transparency, and mission alignment, ensuring planned giving donors feel valued not just for their future gift, but for their lifelong partnership in advancing the organization’s vision.

This session is approved for 1 CFRE credit.

Speakers Include:

Emily Lahr, Stillwater Hospice

A proud Fort Wayne native, Emily Lahr has spent nearly 20 years in the philanthropic world, building authentic relationships and cultivating mission-driven growth. She finds great joy in helping people connect with causes that align with their passions and values.

In 2022, Emily felt a calling to join the development team at Stillwater Hospice after experiencing their compassionate care three years prior. Also a long-time advocate for grief support, the role felt like a natural continuation of both her personal journey and professional purpose.

Since joining the board of directors for the Charitable Gift Planners of Northeast Indiana in 2023, Emily is currently serving as Board Chair.

Margaritia White, Community Foundation of Noble County

Margarita White is President & CEO of the Community Foundation of Noble County, where she leads strategic growth, community investment, and philanthropic partnerships that strengthen Noble County’s future. With more than two decades of experience at the foundation, she has played a central role in expanding charitable assets, launching innovative grantmaking initiatives, and building collaborations that address local needs in education, economic development, and nonprofit capacity.Known for her collaborative leadership style, Margarita works closely with donors, nonprofits, and civic partners to align resources with long term community impact. She is deeply committed to growing a culture of generosity and ensuring the foundation serves as a trusted steward of charitable funds. Under her leadership, the foundation continues to evolve as a catalyst for positive change, helping residents invest in the place they call home.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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