A Spirit of Generosity

Jul 14, 2025

Growing up, the 18-minute drive to attend Sunday Mass was more than just a routine to Suzanna – it was a ritual that rooted her in service and community.  Her parents set the example, not only by attending Mass every week, but by actively participating in the parish council and volunteering, which left a lasting impression.

“Service was baked into how we were raised,” reflects Suzanna. “Both of my parents were involved with church and spent time volunteering with different organizations in the community. They inspired and taught me that part of life is giving.”

This spirit of generosity became the fabric of Suzanna’s adult life. As she began to earn her own income, giving became more personal and intentional. Suzanna became clearer on her priorities, identified causes close to her heart and focused time and resources towards those passions.

Professionally, Suzanna was also involved in philanthropy through her early career in asset management and financial services, where estate planning was an important consideration for clients. She had meaningful conversations with other people about their own charitable giving interests and goals, and this began to shape what she imagined for herself.

“I learned a lot in those early years about how I could give,” said Suzanna. “But when I returned to Iowa and my best friend Jennifer Garst led the Story County Community Foundation, we talked a lot more about planned giving, being involved with the community and having a well-thought-out strategy.”

These conversations led Suzanna to open a donor advised fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, where her charitable giving is guided by a deeper understanding of community needs. It not only consolidates and simplifies her giving, but it has also allowed her to draw on the Community Foundation’s local knowledge and expertise. Suzanna is now more intentional in directing her support to both the things she values and where it is needed most.

Through this partnership, Suzanna has become even more strategic with her giving. She focuses on three key areas that align closely with her volunteer work and charitable generosity: healthcare and health equity, education and the arts, with a passion for supporting women and girls, as well as serving the Latino community. As a proud Latina herself, she has also been engaged in advancing access to education, career opportunities and cultural resources, making sure people have the ability to live full and healthy lives.

“The Community Foundation can be a great guide in helping you make a difference. They help mix passion with need, and create a recipe for strategic giving,” shares Suzanna. “You can start with anything, even the smallest amount of money on a monthly basis. Be as generous as you can be, listen to the needs and see how you can help your community.”