Mike and Wendy Stoudt have built their lives around three guiding values: faith, education, and the arts, weaving these commitments into their careers, volunteer service, and philanthropy. Their philanthropy is grounded in their Bible-based faith and commitment to tithing, which sets the tone for everything that follows.
Mike, a first-generation college student, began as an accountant and became Chief Financial Officer at Lehigh Carbon Community College. He has served on the Parkland School District Board, founded Stoudt Associates in 2024, and later joined RKL – opening the business in downtown Allentown, demonstrating a personal commitment to the city’s revitalization.
Wendy, a Temple University graduate and certified teacher and artist who opened a downtown art gallery, shares her love for the arts at summer camps, homeschool art classes, and local exhibits.
In 2016, Mike and Wendy relocated to downtown Allentown, living there for nine years and further strengthening their investment in the community. During this time, they gave generously of their time and talents.
Mike served on the Boards of Cedar Crest College and The Baum School of Art. He currently serves on the boards of Moravian University and Da Vinci Science Center, while Wendy contributes to the community and local non-profits with her art business, having also served on the board of the William Allen Arts Alliance.
Mike and Wendy’s story offers and important lesson for anyone considering how to give back. Mike believes deeply that education changes lives. He is passionate and keeping young people in school, removing barriers that might derail them, and helping every individual reach their full potential. “I believe we all have a stewardship obligation to achieve our potential – and to help others do the same,” Mike says.
But the couple is equally clear: giving isn’t just for the wealthy, and it doesn’t have to be intimidating. “Most people worry they don’t have enough money to make a planned gift. The truth is, with a well-designed financial plan, you can be confident you have enough to live on – and still give generously,” Mike explains. He offered further practical tips on how others could multiply their impact:
- Leverage EITC: Through the Pennsylvania Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program, donors can turn $1 into $10 of impact. With a 90% tax credit, your gift goes much further in supporting educational programs that keep kids engaged.
- Include a Legacy Gift: Mike and Wendy have included Da Vinci Science Center in their will, but they hope to give most of their gifts during their lifetime so they can see the impact firsthand. Planning ahead ensures that your values live on and your generosity is felt well into the future.
- Give from Assets: Retirement accounts, Donor Advised Funds (DAFs), and other planned giving tools make it easier – and often more tax efficient – to give in ways that maximize your impact.
- Give Through the Workplace: Supporting Da Vinci Science Center through the United Way is a simple, steady way to give. Many employers match gifts, even doubling the value of your contribution.
For Mike and Wendy, giving is not about what they part with – it’s about what they help build. Supporting organizations like Da Vinci Science Center and the William Allen Arts Alliance allows them to spark curiosity, keep kids excited about learning, and help families take steps toward brighter futures.
“If we can prevent kids from dropping out of school, that’s a win,” Mike says. “We’re helping them to get one step closer to a more productive life.”
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