Leaving a Legacy Through the Lens of the Dikes

As we age, we tend to think more about the legacy we will leave behind. May’s Leave a Legacy Month is a time to reflect on our lives and think about the impact we want to have on the world. For some, their passion becomes their legacy, and two Gibson County residents that embody legacy giving are Randy and Barbara “Barb” Dike.

Randy served on the advisory board of the Gibson County Community Foundation while establishing his career at Holder Funeral Home, and Barb retired from banking after 25 years to join her husband as co-owner of Holder Funeral Home. During their time of building a ministry through funerals, they grew to love the people in their community. Their love for Gibson County led them to establish a charitable legacy, ensuring the community would benefit long after they are gone.

The Dikes came from humble beginnings but were determined to create a better future for themselves and their community. They established the Randall K. and Barbara A. Dike Scholarship Fund, which provides annual scholarships to graduating seniors of Gibson Southern High School living in Montgomery or Wabash Townships who can explain how they have overcome diversity.

The Dikes’ introduction to the Community Foundation came through another fundholder that believed building a charitable legacy through estate planning was key to giving back to the people of Gibson County. Estate planning allows individuals to include family, faith, and community in their legacy. The Dikes hope that others are inspired to establish a fund that benefits the community.

By working with professional advisors, like financial advisors, estate attorneys, or investment managers, individuals can create a legacy that lasts beyond their years. If you don’t currently have an advisor, this questionnaire is available to answer initial questions about legacy intentions: https://bit.ly/ gccfleavealegacy .

The Gibson County Community Foundation partners with professional advisors and donors looking to establish a charitable legacy like the Dikes. Leaving a charitable legacy is a powerful way to make a difference in the world. Knowing your generosity and compassion will continue to benefit others long after you are gone brings a sense of peace, knowing you have made a lasting impact on Gibson County.

The Dikes extended their charitable giving by ensuring their memorial gifts will directly benefit their fund, allowing it to produce additional scholarships. Their legacy will last forever in Gibson County.

Free Trees for Earth Day

Members of the Patoka Wildlife Refuge gave away free trees in honor of Earth day on Saturday, April 22nd. They were at the IGA in Oakland City and the YMCA Camp Carson archery tournament.