Like so many families, Cheryl Persigehl and Jonathan Flak have experienced a downturn in their personal financial picture over the past 18 months. Nevertheless, they continue to make their giving a priority.
“If we only looked at our checkbook and savings account balances, we could easily conclude that these are ‘hard times’,’” says Cheryl and Jonathan. “Though we haven’t been able to give at the same levels as in past years, we’ve continued to add to our family’s donor advised fund and make grants to charities as a witness to the abundance and real wealth we experience in these challenging times — the love of family, the strength of community, the power of love.”
“When other funding sources are uncertain, grants from charitable funds at the Lutheran Community Foundation (LCF) provide critical support for congregations and community resources, many of which have been hard-hit by the current economy,” says Chris Andersen, LCF President. “In 2009, nearly $9 million was granted to 2,000 nonprofits, all made possible through generous donor gifts.”
KEEP YOUR GIVING PLAN CURRENT
Through the LCF, 2,500 individuals and families have created charitable funds to carry out their charitable wishes. Here’s how donors can keep their giving plans current:
- Keep your Fund Agreement up to date. Giving priorities can change over time. Make sure your Fund Agreement reflects your current wishes by reviewing the document every few years. Contact the LCF if you need a duplicate copy.
- Add to the impact of your fund. Even if you don’t have extra dollars to give this year, you can still add to the impact of your fund by naming the LCF as beneficiary of an asset or make a bequest through your will or living trust.
- Call the LCF with your questions or concerns. We’re here to serve your charitable interests and value your feedback on how we can improve our service. Call us at 800-365-4172.
“Each donor’s charitable fund supports their recommended charities and causes, shaping change in our shared community,” says Andersen. “Our job is to make donor gifts work as hard as possible by serving as a strong steward.”
DOING ALL THE GOOD WE CAN
In the spirit of faith and stewardship, donors David and Sandra Beens maintain a giving program that reflects their beliefs and values. “God has lavished us with His good gifts and provided us with everything needful and so much more,” say David and Sandra. “In thankfulness we attempt to follow theologian John Wesley’s encouragement to ‘do all the good we can’.”
While difficult economic times are challenging, faith often provides an invaluable perspective. “Sometimes God answers prayers through people He brings into our lives that provide opportunities to help and encourage those in need,” say the Beens. “What a privilege to be part of this great plan. We trust and He provides.”