West Chester, PA – (August 14, 2015): The Door Opener Award is given to a professional advisor who takes the initiative to bring legacy philanthropy options to the attention of their clients for their consideration. This year’s award winner, Kurt Kunsch, has had innumerable legacy philanthropy conversations with clients and colleagues.
Each year Chester County Community Foundation looks for outstanding Chester County citizens who have made a notable effort to improve the communities where they live, work and play. The Foundation honors these individuals with Legacy Awards.
The Door Opener Award reflects a unique aspect of the Community Foundation’s mission, which is to increase legacy philanthropy throughout Chester County.
As Senior Vice President/Trust Managing Director for Phoenixville Federal Bank and Trust since 1996, Kurt has encouraged his clients to give back through specific conversations regarding philanthropic desires during their life and also at their passing. This has led to great relationships with clients and at the same time assists other organizations in fulfilling their missions. His dedication to superior client service through sound business practices has established him as a leader in his field. He bases his reputation on trust and integrity.
When asked what has inspired him to give back throughout his life Kurt Kunsch refers to his father, last year’s Jordan Award winner Mr. Richard A. Kunsch, Sr., “I have been very fortunate to have some great mentors throughout my life. My Dad always instilled in us the importance of giving back, and donating time or resources to assist others in need. It feels great to be able to make a huge impact on other’s lives. ”
Kurt and his wife Kelly continue the strong tradition of family philanthropy with their three children Addison, Chloe, and Daxon. Each child receives the book “Three Cups: A Lesson in Life and Money for Children” by Tony Townsely and Mark St. Germain, on their 5th birthday (this tradition was started by Kurt’s brother-in-law). “Three Cups” is a children’s book that teaches basic financial planning and at the same time emphasizes giving. Three cups are given to each child to deposit money they receive from various holidays and allowances. One cup is for saving, one for spending and one for giving. Kurt now gives this book to his clients for their children and grandchildren as well.
Kurt’s current philanthropic involvement includes serving as President for the Phoenixville Area Economic Development Corporation, as Secretary for the Phoenixville Police Athletic League, and as a Board member of the Chester County Estate Planning Council. Kurt throws in extra entertainment to his philanthropy as a professional magician and he served as a panel member Muhlenberg College’s Art and Theory of Magic Program for 10 years.
He sees benefits for those who give charitably as well as for those who receive charity, “Research has shown that the great feelings you experience from helping others may be just as important as exercise and a healthy diet. The smile you receive from a child or a thankful person is one of the best feelings in the world. I enjoy making my clients feel great about the impact they can make!”
Kurt Kunsch and other award recipients will be honored at this year Chester County Community Foundation Legacy Awards Celebration & Annual Meeting on Monday, November 2, 2015 at West Chester University’s Madeleine Wing Adler Theater.
Headquartered in West Chester’s historic Lincoln Building, the Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter, so their legacy philanthropy makes a difference now and forever. The Community Foundation holds nearly $50 million in trust and annually awards $2.5 million in grants and scholarships. For more information, contact www.chescocf.org or (610) 696-8211.