Prosperity doesn’t solve everything but nothing can be solved without prosperity.

We Create
Systemic Change

We identify and invest in initiatives that exceed standard benchmarks for economic mobility, a process that takes time to do it right.

What is Transformational Philanthropy?

 

Transformational philanthropy begins when organizations shift from scarcity thinking to strategic action.

This approach creates a powerful cycle

  • Opportunity opens doors to enhanced capacity

  • Capacity enables unprecedented impact

  • Impact reveals deeper purpose

  • Purpose leads to new opportunities

We question inherited assumptions and identify untapped connections within existing systems. By bringing together complementary strengths and fostering strategic partnerships, we multiply impact across central Missouri.

Our investments complement, rather than replace, public funding. We combine rigorous standards with community insight to support initiatives that demonstrate both ambition and accountability.

Our Foundation

Bill’s Story

The William Guitar Little Foundation was established to transform central Missouri through strategic philanthropy that creates lasting prosperity for all.

William "Bill" Guitar Little built his career on a foundation of business excellence and commitment to community. As the owner of Quam Nichols Company, a manufacturing business founded in 1929, Bill developed a deep understanding of how effective systems and strategic thinking drive sustainable results.

With family roots in central Missouri through the Guitar family, Bill maintained a strong connection to the region throughout his successful business career. His experiences serving on various boards and commissions, including the US Chamber of Commerce, shaped his perspective on how business principles could transform philanthropic impact.

Established with a clear vision of prosperity that extends beyond financial metrics, the foundation applies Bill's business acumen and systems thinking to philanthropy. We focus on creating an environment where organizations collaborate effectively to address challenges with systemic solutions that change the landscapes of lives.

Our Leadership

  • Executive Director

    Andrew brings extensive nonprofit leadership experience to the William Guitar Little Foundation, most recently serving as President and CEO of Heart of Missouri United Way. His deep understanding of central Missouri's community landscape and strategic approach to philanthropy guide the foundation's transformative work.

    agrabau@wglfoundation.org

  • Chief Finance Officer / Truman Wealth Advisors

    • Randy Moore

    • Melissa Murphy

    • Dr. Mozow Zuidema

    • Sarah Hill

Do’s & Dont’s

Do’s

• Have high expectations

• Support innovation

• Urge fund matching

• Focus on promoting prosperity

• Outcome measurement

• Respect the process

Dont’s

• Replace taxpayers

• Become sustaining

• Support duplication

Our Values & Approach

STEADFAST

Complex challenges demand unwavering commitment to excellence. This means doing the right thing, the first time and every time. We establish clear metrics for success and create a culture of accountability at every level.

INNOVATIVE

We approach situations with intentional questioning and thoughtful insight, saying "yes, if?" instead of "no, because." This mindset drives us to look beneath the surface for unexpected connections and innovative solutions that advance prosperity in our community.

PURPOSEFUL

We invest in transformational change that creates measurable results at both system and individual levels. Our partnerships combine high expectations with clear accountability. We empower organizations to multiply their impact.

THE PROSPERITY
FRAMEWORK

Our approach culminates in taking the above to advance positive change. This framework is built on five core commitments in supporting the community

  1. Embrace Strategic Risk: We seek out innovative solutions with transformative potential, carefully calculating risks while supporting bold ideas backed by sound thinking.

  2. Demand Measurable Progress: Every initiative must demonstrate meaningful, measurable outcomes, using data to illuminate paths forward.

  3. Build Sustainable Solutions: We focus on creating lasting change rather than temporary fixes, helping organizations achieve independence rather than creating reliance.

  4. Strengthen Organizational Capacity: We invest in the fundamental capabilities non-profits need to achieve their missions and multiply their impact.

  5. Amplify Impact Through Collaboration: We actively seek opportunities to create multiplier effects through strategic partnerships and resource alignment.