Faith, Legacy and Serving Others with John and Joy Mills
For John Mills, giving back is both a calling and a reflection of his values. Deep faith, a love for learning and a strong belief in serving others fuel John and his wife Joy’s passion for giving back. By partnering with South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF), they have found a meaningful way to leave a legacy that aligns with all three.
John sat down with SDCF Director of Development, Jeff Veltkamp, to talk about their decision to establish Peace Lutheran Education Fund. This charitable fund is designed to support educational efforts at Peace Lutheran Church in Brookings, South Dakota, a church community that has played a key role in John’s life.
“Our desire is to support Christian education, to help children grow in their faith and to strengthen the church,” John shared.
John’s love for his family and ministry helped shape his desire to give in this way. With a background in building, John understands the importance of a solid foundation. In the same way a building needs to start with a strong foundation, he believes life does as well. He and his wife have seen firsthand the impact a faith-centered education has had on their children and now their grandchildren. Their endowment fund focuses on supporting the early childhood center and the growing micro school established at Peace Lutheran Church, helping children grow in their knowledge of God’s love for them.
“Ultimately, we just want others to know God’s deep love for them.”
John Mills
“It’s about building a foundation for life . . .” he explained, “ for decision-making, for leadership, for serving others.”
John sees their gift not only as an investment in the early childhood educational offerings of the church, but in the future of Brookings and beyond. “Strong churches build strong communities,” he said. “We may have started this fund, but others are adding to it, compounding the benefits for those who will be served through it.” He encourages others to think about leaving a philanthropic legacy in the same way – start something that others can add on to when they feel called to make a difference.
"Start with your values. Think about what matters most to you and then ask how that work can grow through others and continue after you’re gone. The Foundation can help you do that."
When asked about working with SDCF, John was quick to express his appreciation. “They make it easy,” he said. “They helped guide us through the process, asked the right questions and made sure our wishes were honored now and would be in the future.”
“Start with your values,” John advised. “Think about what matters most to you and then ask how that work can grow through others and continue after you’re gone. The Foundation can help you do that.”
By creating a permanent endowment, John and Joy have ensured their gift will support Christian education at Peace Lutheran Church for generations.
“Ultimately, we just want others to know God’s deep love for them,” John said.