CFI Announces Sam Boren and Steve King as Founding Spirit of Generosity Chairs
/The Charitable Foundation of the Islands (CFI) is proud to announce Susan “Sam” Boren and Steve King as the Founding Spirit of Generosity Chairs of the 2026 Generosity Breakfast, taking place Monday, November 16, at Sundial Beach Resort & Spa.
The Spirit of Generosity Chairs recognize individuals whose philanthropy reflects a deep commitment to the Sanibel-Captiva community. Through Sam and Steve’s generous gift to underwrite the breakfast, every dollar raised through ticket and table sales will directly support CFI’s Community Impact Fund, helping address community needs and invest in opportunities that strengthen the islands.
“Sam and Steve embody what the Spirit of Generosity is all about,” said Dolly Farrell, Executive Director of CFI. “Their generosity is thoughtful, deeply personal and rooted in a genuine desire to strengthen the community around them. We are incredibly grateful for their leadership and for helping us inspire others to consider the difference their own generosity can make.”
Children on playgrounds around the world climb structures shaped by Steve’s design work at Landscape Structures, Inc., the company he founded and grew into an internationally recognized name in play design. That same care for people and community is reflected in Sam and Steve’s philanthropy.
On Sanibel, their generosity has supported organizations including the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF), Community Housing & Resources (CHR) and CFI. Beyond the islands, much of their philanthropy has focused on environmental and conservation causes, including NatureBridge, where Sam served as Board Chair, American Rivers and Direct Impact Africa. Their giving also includes an endowed dean’s chair at Iowa State University, among many other organizations and causes close to their hearts.
Sam brings decades of leadership experience from her career as a partner with Spencer Stuart and now serves on CFI’s Board of Directors. Sam and Steve are also CFI donor-advised fund partners and supporters of CFI’s Accelerate Small Business Loan Program, reflecting their belief that a strong community depends on thriving nonprofits, local businesses and people committed to making a difference.
As the Founding Spirit of Generosity Chairs, Sam and Steve will help welcome guests and set the tone for a morning celebrating the many ways generosity shapes Sanibel and Captiva.
The 2026 Generosity Breakfast will bring together community members, nonprofit leaders and philanthropists to celebrate those making a lasting difference and inspire continued investment in the future of the islands. Tickets are $225 per person, and tables of eight are $2,000, with proceeds from ticket and table sales benefiting CFI’s Community Impact Fund.
Tickets and tables may be purchased online through the 2026 Generosity Breakfast registration page.
About the Charitable Foundation of the Islands
The Charitable Foundation of the Islands works to strengthen the Sanibel-Captiva community through philanthropy, leadership and collaboration. Through donor-advised funds, community grantmaking, leadership initiatives and partnerships, CFI connects generous people with opportunities to create meaningful and lasting impact.
About the Community Impact Fund
CFI’s Community Impact Fund provides flexible funding to address the Sanibel-Captiva community’s most pressing needs and emerging opportunities. Through the fund, CFI invests in local nonprofits, collaborative initiatives and innovative solutions that strengthen the islands and create lasting community impact.