Connecting Clients With Causes That Matter

At a Foundation gathering earlier this year, distinguished attorney Kim Stogner (Womble Bond Dickinson) stood before a room of professional advisors to offer insights about her experience supporting charitable clients. Kim’s legal expertise and keen ability to build trust was evident as she reflected upon her partnership with prolific philanthropist Joyce Kohfeldt, noting, “I’ve been practicing law for 30 years now, and clients like Joyce make what I do truly meaningful.”

Many nonprofit leaders in our community have a unique story about the late Joyce Kohfeldt, namely her passion for giving her time and treasure to advocate for those who need it most. As a former educator and owner of a school supply company, Joyce understood the transformative power of education and the importance of ensuring every child has access to resources and quality learning opportunities.

Kim and Joyce began working together back in 2008, as Joyce was settling her mother’s estate. Joyce shared her interest in wanting to be generous to others. Kim pointed Joyce to The Winston-Salem Foundation, reflecting, “It was easy for me to introduce Joyce to folks at the Foundation, so they could provide direction to help her make the biggest impact.”

“It was easy for me to introduce Joyce to folks at the Foundation, so they could provide direction to help her make the biggest impact.”

Through the Foundation’s expertise and support, Joyce channeled her resources into the creation of several charitable funds, including the Joyce Kohfeldt Designated Fund, which provides perpetual income to support beloved organizations like Crosby Scholars, Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina, Lutheran Church of the Epiphany, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Piedmont Triad, and Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC.

Kim’s partnership with Joyce demonstrates the enduring bond that many charitable people share with their trusted financial advisors and how conversations about philanthropy can often lead to a deeper level of trust. Through Kim’s guidance, Joyce Kohfeldt and countless others have found avenues to make a meaningful difference, leaving behind legacies that will continue to strengthen our community for years to come.