The Trusler Foundation, managed by ESB Financial, works in conjunction with the Emporia Community Foundation (ECF) to fund various organizations and projects.
Harold Trusler was a nationally known grain dealer, a force in civic and community affairs, a vice president of the Kansas Chamber of Commerce and a leader in several organizations. Although the Trusler’s were considered regular people with a modest estate, the power of compounded earnings allowed their foundation to grow.
Significant financial support has been awarded since inception in 1957 by Harold & Irene Trusler and they continue to positively impact the community with gifts of more than $5 million in just the past two decades alone.
Grants awarded through the Trusler Foundation are to be used for charitable, religious, scientific, literary, and educational purposes within Chase, Coffey and Lyon counties.
The Trusler Foundation Advisory Committee met in November to review grant applications and awarded Symphony in the Flint Hills, Inc., $35,000 toward their signature event.
“Symphony in the Flint Hills is grateful for the dedication of the Trusler Foundation along with the ECF and their commitment to our mission to heighten appreciation and knowledge of the Flint Hills tallgrass prairie. We are proud to continue to recognize the Trusler Foundation as our Major Founding Sponsor as we celebrate our 20th Anniversary Signature Event on Saturday, June 14, 2025,” said Kelly Tastove, Operations Manager.
Other organizations receiving funding included: Chase County Care and Compassion (C4 Food Pantry), $11,665.01 for their food pantry building and renovation efforts. Chase County, $25,000 for an emergency siren. Abundant Harvest Food Kitchen, $11,665.01 for expansion of their free hot meal program. Sacred Heart, $10,000 in support of their “Helping Our Littlest Community Members Thrive” initiative.
