About Your Foundation
Who is Truman Heartland Community Foundation?
Truman Heartland Community Foundation (THCF) is a 501(c)(3) public charity committed to improving the communities in and around Eastern Jackson County through cooperation with community members and donors.
Founded in 1982 by 10 area residents who had a philanthropic vision for our communities, the Foundation was originally called the Independence Community Foundation. Truman Heartland rapidly grew to regional prominence serving all of Jackson County and other contiguous counties. In 1996, the Foundation’s name was changed to more accurately reflected its Missouri heritage and impact on the region.
Today, Truman Heartland serves the region with assets of more than $54 million and annual grants surpassing $4.8 million. A trusted leader in charitable giving, Truman Heartland serves individuals who, through their private giving, wish to support the public good and help them do it in the most tax-wise and effective manner.
We're always looking for ways to be a catalyst for change in Eastern Jackson County and surrounding communities. In 1998, Truman Heartland started its Youth Advisory Council; the organization has involved high school students in philanthropy and community service for almost two decades. We work to ensure Eastern Jackson County is collaboratively and proactively working together to meet the ever-changing needs of our community. Launched in 2019, the Job Skills for New Careers community initiative aims to help improve the economic status of families in Eastern Jackson County and break the cycle of poverty by providing a pathway to higher paying, in-demand careers through job skills training, financial coaching and mentorship. Today, Truman Heartland serves the entire region and is considered one of the top 10 foundations in the Kansas City area in terms of total grants.