For Mike Sinclair, giving back has always been rooted in perspective.
Born and raised on Des Moines’ south side, Mike attended Dowling Catholic High School before heading to Iowa State University. His career eventually took him to Lincoln, Nebraska, where he spent 30 years building both his professional life and his family. But in 2011, Mike returned home to Des Moines to care for his mother, a decision that reflects the same values that now guide his legacy.
After retiring in 2017, Mike found himself with something many people rarely get: time to reflect. As life slowed down, his focus became clearer.
“I started thinking more about where I could make the biggest difference,” he shared.
Mike had long been familiar with Orchard Place through friends and neighbors who spoke highly of its impact. Hearing those stories stayed with him. Combined with his own experiences volunteering and giving back in the community, a deeper vision began to take shape, one centered on helping children early, before challenges grow into lifelong struggles.
“When you drive around, you see people standing on street corners,” Mike said. “That’s the smoke. I started thinking, how do we focus on the fire? How do we help kids earlier so that 5, 10, 20 years down the road, there are fewer people in crisis?”
That belief, addressing challenges at their root, ultimately led Mike to include Orchard Place in his estate plans and join the Elizabeth Mann Society.
Through a legacy thoughtfully established with the Community Foundation, Mike is supporting several organizations close to his heart, including those focused on children, families, and basic needs. For him, it is not about recognition. It is about impact.
“I’ve been blessed,” he said. “This is a way to give back and help shape something better for the future.”
Mike’s commitment to children and youth is also reflected in his family. He has two sons, both living in Lincoln with families of their own, and he has instilled in them the importance of generosity and community involvement.
Today, Mike continues to stay engaged through volunteer work and local initiatives. But perhaps his most lasting contribution will be the future he is helping to build, one where more children have the support they need to thrive.
Through his generosity, Mike is not only honoring the legacy of Elizabeth Mann, he is helping ensure it lives on for generations to come.
