Austin Attorney Leads Community Foundation to Tangible Impact

Emily Toland channels personal loss and family wisdom into estate planning and local grants that make a difference.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:42pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in warm, earthy tones depicting a group of people gathered around a table, conceptually representing the collaborative nature of community foundation work.The Austin Area Foundation's board members work together to direct small but impactful grants that improve the lives of local residents.Austin Today

Emily Toland, an attorney with Adams Rizzi and Sween, has found deep fulfillment in her work with the Austin Area Foundation (AAF) as both a board member and the current chair. Raised by a family that valued community involvement, Toland jumped at the chance to join the AAF board in 2023 and has been instrumental in directing the foundation's small but impactful grants to local nonprofits and initiatives, such as funding a new automatic door at the senior center.

Why it matters

The Austin Area Foundation plays a crucial role in supporting the local community by filling gaps that other funding sources do not address. Toland's leadership and passion for the foundation's work have helped raise awareness and inspire more people to get involved in charitable and legacy giving in the Austin area.

The details

As an attorney specializing in trusts and estate planning, Toland brings valuable expertise to the AAF board. She initially pursued a law degree after majoring in Political Science, recognizing the potential to make a tangible difference in people's lives. Toland's work with the AAF has allowed her to see the direct impact of the foundation's grants, from scholarship recipients to the improved accessibility at the senior center.

  • Toland joined the AAF board in 2023.
  • She is currently serving as the board chair.

The players

Emily Toland

An attorney with Adams Rizzi and Sween and the current chair of the Austin Area Foundation board.

Austin Area Foundation

A local community foundation that provides small but impactful grants to nonprofits and initiatives in the Austin, Minnesota area.

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What they’re saying

“AAF board is a very rewarding organization to be a part of because you can see that it makes a tangible impact. We can see the names of the scholarship grant recipients, and we can see the work our small grants allow local nonprofits to do right here in Austin. This is not just a 'feel good experience.' Our work really makes a difference in the lives of area residents.”

— Emily Toland, Chair, Austin Area Foundation

What’s next

Toland hopes to continue raising awareness about the Austin Area Foundation and inspiring more community members to get involved in charitable giving and legacy planning to support the foundation's important work.

The takeaway

Emily Toland's passion for community service and her expertise in estate planning have made her an invaluable asset to the Austin Area Foundation, helping the organization direct much-needed resources to local nonprofits and initiatives that are making a tangible difference in the lives of Austin residents.