A Shared Path to Impact

Apr 22, 2026

Walking a path together is central to the way Benson Wealth Management, a Northwestern Mutual Private Client Group, approaches its work. More than managing finances, the team strives to be a steady resource for clients as they think about the kind of impact they want to make. When the Ankeny-based financial services firm was introduced to the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, they recognized an opportunity to be supported in bringing philanthropic conversations to life across their client base. 

The relationship has opened the door to fresh ways of thinking, inviting creativity, flexibility and deeper alignment with clients’ values. Together, the partnership has turned intention into action, crafting charitable giving strategies that are both thoughtful and impactful for clients. Benson Wealth Management understands the potential, and that through collaboration, they can elevate client solutions and strengthen their comprehensive planning approach. 

 For Ruth and Chuck Gassmann, that partnership has brought clarity and confidence to their giving. “We have put together a great team that streamlines the process for us. Charitable giving is important to us now, and we want it to be our legacy forever,” they share. “We planned together with our advisor, Doug Benson, and we work through the Community Foundation to support the causes we care about.  It truly feels like a win-win-win.” 

The Community Foundation provides the tools, expertise and local insight to make giving simple and meaningful for financial advisors and their clients. Benson Wealth Management is able to invest a client’s charitable dollars into a Community Foundation fund and still maintain assets under management. It’s a Better Together service — bringing clients’ values to life by giving back in ways that matter most to them. 

 “We have a core value: ‘Sharpen the Saw’ — which represents our dedication to staying current on ever-changing industry topics and always learning how to serve our clients more effectively,” shares Doug Benson, founder and private wealth advisor at Benson Wealth Management. “Through our relationship with the Community Foundation, we’ve realized better outcomes for our clients. It is a relationship that is marked by appreciation, joy and greater giving.”