October 06, 2025 | Stories
Robert (Bob) Goebel’s lifelong commitment to service continues to grow. In July, he established the Robert L. & Rosalie Goebel West Wichita Rotary Club Fund, a designated fund at the Wichita Foundation (WF). For the next 25 years, the fund will provide steady financial support for the Rotary Club of West Wichita’s programs.
“I’m 92,” said Goebel, who currently has two funds at WF. “This is a way that I can still be a member for another 25 years through giving.”
Designated funds allow people to support the future of a specific organization while WF manages the investment, administration, and annual distributions. Goebel’s fund ensures the Rotary Club of West Wichita can rely on consistent support year after year.
The Rotary Club of West Wichita has served as a grassroots force for good since 1987, leading projects in education, food assistance, and community engagement. Goebel has stood alongside these efforts from the very beginning.
“I've been part of everything the Rotary Club [of West Wichita] has done for the past 38 years,” he said. “I’ll never forget our first project of hosting a food drive in 1987. I want to help ease the burden of raising the funds to do these programs.”
When the fund completes its 25-year term in July 2050, the remaining investments will flow into WF’s Fund for Wichita, our community’s permanent resource that acts quickly on urgent needs and fuels long-term opportunities.
“In 25 years, there may be needs in Wichita we’ve never heard of before,” Goebel said. “I trust the Foundation to decide where it works out best.”
For Goebel, charitable giving is rooted in local impact. Through his gift, he ensures the Rotary Club of West Wichita’s work remains strong while investing in Wichita’s future.
“My hope is that [the gift] makes Rotary even stronger,” he said. “And maybe inspires somebody else to do the same thing.”
If Bob’s story inspires you to give, connect with our staff to explore how your generosity can make a lasting impact in Wichita.
