Welcome to the Jo Zakas Legacy Foundation
The Person
In her lifetime, Jo Zakas promoted success for others. In 1972 Zakas developed Clifton Square Shopping Village. She gathered vintage College Hill houses and repurposed them for office and retail use. The Square served as an incubator for small businesses during her 45 years of ownership and continues today.
Zakas so willingly gave her time to help people discover possibilities from all walks of life. In 2003 she established a charitable foundation to help at risk populations — the Clifton Square Foundation.
When she passed away in 2016, the Board of Directors renamed it the Jo Zakas Legacy Foundation.
Long may the spirit, generosity, and positive influence of Jo Zakas live through her foundation.
The Legacy
The primary purpose of The Jo Zakas Legacy Foundation is
“to assist in providing training and support of individuals and groups who would help produce more effective citizens and entrepreneurs.”
Entrepreneur, artist, civic leader, and philanthropist — Zakas helped people improve their lives – both personal and career.
A Runaway
Jo left home at the age of 12. Today Jo Zakas would be called an “at-risk” child.
it took determination to grow from that scared, 12-year-old runaway. That determination transitioned into the driving force she became in the Wichita community.
Her experience led her to believe that other people can change their lives.
A Mentor
Her business and personal success forged a life-long mission in helping people improve their lives. She understood that the impact of the choices she made – in business and in life – determined her success.
Zakas spent her lifetime mentoring others to make good choices and her efforts continue through the Jo Zakas Legacy Foundation.
The Foundation
Annually the Jo Zakas Legacy Foundation awards grants to area non-profit organizations. These organizations serve at-risk populations in Wichita, Kansas and surrounding communities.
A Board of Directors manages the Foundation. We first awarded grants in 2019. In 2020 we awarded close to $45,000 to nine local organizations.
Most grants awarded fall between $500 to $5,000. Grants can cover a project or program in full or join with other donors to help cover funding. Past grants have funded:
- basic-need items like tooth brushes and paste for underserved school children,
- art therapy classes for youth in crisis,
- neighborhood gardens for teen employment, and
- transportation to development classes for domestic violence survivors.
“Changing People’s Lives.”
Jo Zakas
The Jo Zakas Legacy Foundation is a 501(c)3 Nonprofit organization.
If you would like to help us help others in our community, please send your tax-deductible donations to our offices. Your help will go a long way. Thank you.
Jo Zakas Legacy Foundation
6446 E. Central Box 115
Wichita, KS 67206
