Steve Kent Is Planting Seeds of Kindness 

For Steve Kent, caring for the community began at an early age. He helped neighbors mow lawns, rake leaves, or shovel snow, not because he expected to be paid, but because it was, and still is, the right thing to do. Now, at age 69, he’s still helping neighbors, but he traded his shovel for a snowblower.  

“I believe in being a good neighbor,” says Steve.  “It makes me feel good when I can help someone.” 

Honoring Good Neighbors 

Steve carried this philosophy through his 45-year career in the sunflower industry. He served on various committees within the National Sunflower Association, including one very personal to him—the selection committee for the Curtis Stern Memorial Scholarship Fund.  

“Curt was a co-worker and friend who passed away,” Steve explains. “The National Sunflower Association established the scholarship to recognize his contributions to the sunflower industry. He would be proud knowing that many of the recipients of the scholarship in his name are working in the industry today.” 

Steve’s former bosses, mentors, and business partners, Gary Fick and Jay Schuler, acted as role models for Steve.  

“Gary and Jay led by example and gave back to the communities in which they lived,” Steve shares. “They understand how important it is to give back to the community and generously support our local area.” 

Finding New Ways to Give Back 

In retirement, Steve and his wife Nancy remain engaged in giving, sharing their time, talents, and treasures. One of the couple’s most memorable volunteer opportunities was in Medora, North Dakota. For five years, they packed their bags for a week volunteering in the Badlands to support the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation—a remarkable organization that could not exist without the help of many. 

Steve sees his and Nancy’s role transitioning from volunteering to more financial gifts in the future. “We have been truly blessed and want to support the organizations and projects we believe in,” he says. 

One of these projects is The Farm at CHI St. Francis. Nancy spent most of her 35-year nursing career at CHI St. Francis, and their daughter, Brianne, and son-in-law, Ryan, both currently work there. When Steve and Nancy heard that the hospital planned to plant an apple orchard, they donated 15 trees in honor of their children and grandchildren. “We hope this gift will keep on giving for many years to come.” 

Inspiring Innovation and Generosity 

The Kent’s children are carrying on the tradition of service, giving their time to community organizations, youth coaching, and church activities where they live.  Even their grandchildren are already stepping up. When their granddaughter, Aurora, dreamed of going to the Taylor Swift concert in Indianapolis, her parents were on board, as long as she earned the money for the tickets herself. So, at 9 years old, Aurora started a business, Pupcakes by Roars, making and selling dog treats. She earned enough to bring along her mom and aunt, and Grandma Nana (Nancy) joined at her own expense. The part of the story that Steve likes best—Aurora donated 10 percent of her profits to the local K-9 unit. “Nancy and I are so proud of her for learning to work hard for what she wants and the importance of giving back,” Steve beams. 

Serving the Community Through Leadership 

In recent years, Steve has become a champion for West Central Initiative’s work. He joined the Board of Directors in 2017 to learn more about the work of a community foundation and economic development organization. He served on the board until 2022, using the skills he learned in private business to help guide initiatives and help spread the word about the impact foundations like West Central Initiative can have on local communities. 

“West Central Initiative works quietly behind the scenes, supporting many organizations in the 82 communities it serves,” Steve says. “I appreciate that the generosity team works with individuals and families on their charitable giving plans, whether that means setting up a donor advised fund, trust, or supporting West Central Initiative’s work in the community.” 

Visit our giving page to learn how you can give to your community, support our work, or set up a fund.