iWealthTV (March 2026) — In this episode of the iWealth Podcast, Brad Connors sits down with Nancy Zallek of the Mankato Area Foundation to unpack what community foundations actually do—and why donor-advised funds have become one of the most practical ways to give with clarity and impact.

Nancy shares her personal story (including the closing of Brett’s Department Store) and how that pivot led her into nonprofit leadership—eventually helping guide the Foundation’s growth from about $2 million in assets and $80K granted per year to around $40 million in assets and over $4 million granted annually.

You’ll hear:

• The origin story of the Foundation (and why early projects mattered)
• What “endowed gifts” are and why perpetuity changed everything
• What makes a strong nonprofit board (and how the “board matrix” works)
• Why giving while you’re alive can become “addictive” (in the best way)
• How advisors and foundations can work together—without pulling assets away
• Real examples of creative giving (yes… even an excavator)
• Why community foundations can move fast when real needs pop up

If you’ve ever wondered how to give in a way that’s thoughtful, local, and strategic—this conversation will give you a framework.