No Hassle, All Heart: Larry’s Journey as a Community Foundation Fundholder

Written by: Lexi Locke-Vincent

Each year in September, the energy across the Kentuckiana community is unmistakable. Nonprofits rally, donors are ready to give, and Give for Good Louisville is here to bring everyone together for a powerful 24 hours of inspiration, hope, and generosity. For Larry Klein, longtime business owner and fundholder, this day is more than just a tradition—it’s a celebration of how easy and joyful giving can be when you have the right tools.

From Business Giving to Foundation Fundholder

Pictured: Larry Klein and Willis Klein

Larry Klein’s journey with philanthropy began decades ago, inspired by his faith and a business coach’s advice: “Always make your contribution bigger than your reward.” After Larry’s father, Willis, passed away in the early 2000s, Larry decided to honor his dad by establishing a fund at the Community Foundation of Louisville, making a lasting impact that can be passed down through generations to come.

Larry and his father’s love for giving generously extends to his business as well. Each year, his employees participate in Give for Good Louisville by recommending nonprofits for donations, allowing them to make a greater impact together, rather than divided efforts alone. For years, Larry supported local causes through his business credit card. After recently learning from Foundation staff about the advantages of using his Donor Advised Fund (DAF), he made the switch. The result? Last year, Larry’s fund supported 31 organizations with more than $7,000 in grant distributions—all with just a few clicks.

“The quarterly statement I received listed who I gave to and how much, which is a great reference for the next year,” said Larry. “We used company credit cards before, but with available funds, 100% goes to the cause, not 3% to processing fees. It allowed us to add more donors.”

The Joy of Giving—All Year Long

While Give for Good Louisville is a highlight, Larry’s fund makes giving simple year-round. The Community Foundation of Louisville’s online portal lets fundholders recommend grants anytime, track their giving history, and support the causes they care about most.

Since Larry opened his Donor Advised Fund in 2001, his journey as a fundholder has progressed. As Larry’s life evolves, his charitable funds continue to grow. Larry’s advice for other fundholders and business owners? “They have to want to do it,” said Larry. “It’s up to the person. A lot of small gifts can add up to big gifts. Some people give more than me, some less. It’s about priorities and not judging others.” He encourages everyone to get their team involved—giving is contagious, and the culture of generosity grows the more it is shared.

Ready to Make Giving Easy and Fun?

Whether you want to give spontaneously or plan for the future, the Foundation’s team is ready to help you design your perfect philanthropic plan.

If you’re not yet a fundholder:
Create your own charitable fund with the Community Foundation of Louisville and experience the ease and joy of giving—during Give for Good Louisville and all year long. Learn more and get started.

If you’re already a fundholder:
Refer a friend, family member, or colleague! Help them discover how simple and rewarding it is to give back with a fund at the Community Foundation of Louisville. Your recommendation can spark a lifetime of generosity.