Celebrating a legacy of Idaho philanthropic leadership

When we started the Idaho Philanthropy Hall of Fame last year, the intent was to recognize those Idahoans who have been champions for philanthropy. Yes, they have been generous with their financial support of Idaho nonprofits. But their most important contribution is the leadership they have provided to nonprofits and philanthropic causes, which for these inductees is decades in the making.

Philanthropy doesn’t happen by accident. It takes people like this to make it happen.

The list of causes they have supported, the number of boards and steering committees they have led, the behind-the-scenes phone calls and coffee meetings they have been part of is endless. So many of the good things that have happened in Idaho over the last 50 years can be attributed to their leadership, their energy and their dedication to making Idaho such a wonderful place.

I have had the privilege of knowing and working with all this year’s inductees. I am proud to call each a friend. I hope you can join us on November 19 at JUMP in downtown Boise as we honor these incredible Idahoans.

Philanthropy doesn’t happen by accident. It takes people like this to make it happen. This is our chance to give a little back to a group of people who have given so much of themselves.

Congratulations to the Balukoffs, Carrs, Prices and Oppenheimers!

About the author

Steve Burns, president and CEO

Steve Burns is the president and CEO of the Idaho Community Foundation (ICF), where he is dedicated to building a stronger, more connected Idaho through philanthropy. Since joining ICF in 2022, Steve has been instrumental in expanding the foundation's reach and impact. Under his leadership, ICF strengthened its role in elevating nonprofit impact, and in 2024, he led the merger of the Idaho Nonprofit Center into the Idaho Community Foundation. Prior to ICF, Steve served as the director of Zoo Boise for 16 years.