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United Way of Central Iowa

Tocqueville Society

The Tocqueville Society recognizes the generosity of individuals and families contributing at the highest levels of personal giving. These caring philanthropists exemplify an outstanding commitment to improving the quality of life within our community.

Since its inception in 1984, Tocqueville Society members have contributed cumulatively more than $110 million to United Way of Central Iowa. Last year alone, they contributed $7.2 million. These funds are strategically invested to create measurable and lasting change in our community’s most urgent issues.

Tocqueville Society Brochure

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Download the Tocqueville Brochure

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Your Investment Transforms Lives

Every gift to United Way of Central Iowa is invested to improve lives right here in our community. Your generosity is amplified through a collective impact process that unites our community around tackling our toughest challenges.

As a Tocqueville member, you can elevate that work so that more of our students graduate from high school, more local families are financially stable, and more of our neighbors lead healthy lives.

2024 Tocqueville Society Award:
Grant Kvalheim

TSCelebratoin2024_Grant&WifeMaryMaria

Grant Kvalheim, CEO and President of Athene USA, has been named the 2024 recipient of the Tocqueville Society Award.

To be considered for this award, one of United Way’s highest honors, past awardees look to Tocqueville Society members who exemplify inspirational, sustained leadership and service to the central Iowa community.

Grant received the award at the annual Tocqueville Society Celebration on October 2, sponsored by Holmes Murphy. The event, which also celebrated the 40th anniversary of United Way of Central Iowa’s Tocqueville Society, brought together over 400 members who collectively gave more than $7.3 million in 2023. These members, who each contribute $10,000 or more annually, are dedicated to advancing United Way’s mission of fostering a thriving community.

“Central Iowa is fortunate to have a leader like Grant, whose unwavering commitment and exceptional leadership continue to inspire us all,” said Mary Sellers, President of United Way of Central Iowa. “His dedication to United Way is reflected not only in his generous support but also in his remarkable efforts to engage others and drive positive change. As a Tocqueville Society Award recipient, Grant illustrates the power of community collaboration that defines our organization. His achievements and steadfast advocacy have made a profound difference in our community, and we are incredibly grateful for his ongoing support and dedication.” 

Join Online

You can join the Tocqueville Society now by clicking the button below and using the donation form:

Donate to United Way

 

Tocqueville Society Chair and Co-Chair

Matt Sokolowski is Chair and Tim and Jess McCulloh are Co-Chairs of the United Way Tocqueville Society campaign. 

Sokolowski, Matt

Matt Sokolowski is the Chief Operations Officer at Willis Automotive. Matt will serve as Chair of United Way Tocqueville Society's 2024 campaign.

Jess McCulloh

Jess McCulloh will serve as Co-Chair of United Way Tocqueville Society's 2024 campaign.

Mcculloh, Tim

Tim McCulloh will serve as Co-Chair of United Way Tocqueville Society's 2024 campaign.


Tocqueville Society Award Recipients:

2024 - Grant Kvalheim
2023 - Jim Brannen & Maria Volante
2022 - Tim & Jess McCulloh
2021 - Sean Vicente
2020 - Gerry Neugent
2019 - Rich & Kim Willis
2018 - Nora Everett
2017 - Tom Mahoney
2016 - Lynn Graves
2015 - Cathy Lacy
2014 - Dan & Joanie Houston
2013 - Debbie Hubbell
2012 - Michele I. Griswell
2011 - Cara Heiden
2010 - David & Barb Hurd
2009 - Steve Chapman
2008 - Fred & Charlotte Hubbell
2007 - Steve Lacy
2006 - Patty & Jim Cownie
2005 - Suku Radia
2004 - Roger K. Brooks
2003 - J. Barry Griswell
2002 - Sunnie Richer
2000 - John R. Grubb
1995 - Evelyn Davis
1994 - Johnny Danos
1992 - Bob Burnett
1991 - Robert E. Larson
1990 - William C. Knapp
1989 - Robert Houser
1988 - Maddie Levitt
1987 - David Kruidenier
1986 - Robb Kelley
1985 - Marvin Pomerantz

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Become a Game-Changer

Tocqueville members are the game-changers who are fostering a thriving community in central Iowa.

In addition to creating lasting impact, Tocqueville Society members can:

  • Meet and network with central Iowa’s most influential leaders and philanthropists
  • Benefit from charitable giving tax savings (a great resource to contribute appreciated assets)
  • Make a direct investment to impact the people of central Iowa with expert-driven strategies
  • Share leadership, expertise, and influence through various committees and events
  • Gain new business and career opportunities by demonstrating community leadership
  • Give to causes you care about most in a way that significantly amplifies your impact
  • Enjoy special society events including an annual celebration
  • Annual recognition of all Tocqueville Society members in the Business Record
    (    See the 2024 Des Moines Business Record Recognition Ad)

Join the Tocqueville Society

You are invited to join the Tocqueville Society, an exceptional group of individuals and families who give $10,000 or more to United Way of Central Iowa each year. There are many options to grow your giving and create long-lasting impact.

Step-Up Program

TS Step Up

The Tocqueville Step-Up Program starts with a minimum personal contribution of $5,000 in the first year, followed by an annual gift increase to reach $10,000 by the third year. You receive full membership benefits starting in year one. Click below to download the PDF enrollment form.

Tocqueville Enrollment Form

Leave a Legacy

By endowing your gift for perpetuity, you will ensure United Way of Central Iowa is there to tackle our community’s challenges for the next 100 years. We work closely with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines so that you can manage your legacy securely and conveniently through the Endow Iowa Tax Credit Program.

Volunteer

Tocqueville Society members are often as generous with their time as they are with their donations. United Way of Central Iowa offers excellent opportunities to give back as a volunteer throughout the year. Visit our Volunteer page to look for specific opportunities.

"Tocqueville Society members are central Iowa's most generous philanthropists who share a passion for making our community a place where everyone has an opportunity to thrive."