By Susan L. Golden, Ph.D., Community West Foundation

When we were kids, it was fun to spend a summer day at an amusement park. The best part was the thrill of a ride on a roller coaster. Today, however, we’re adults, and the roller coaster of this economy is not fun. This past winter has been a rough one, and what we have been through has taken its toll. How many of us have become reluctant to open our investment statements or read financial headlines?

Although spring is around the corner in terms of temperature, it isn’t clear yet what the future holds in terms of the economy. In this difficult environment, we urge you to stop and think. You need not succumb to the fear that the media promote.

We know your assets may have declined in value – on paper. But you still have assets, and can build for the future now. In addition to making strategic investments for your financial future, we hope you will consider making a philanthropic investment as well. Such an investment will pay huge “dividends.” Research has documented that people who donate money to good causes feel better, live longer, and have greater peace of mind. These are the very real and predictable dividends of generosity.

As for your checkbook, your income provides enough to pay your bills and have a little left over. You know that you are blessed in this regard, especially as there are so many in our community who are not as fortunate. We have neighbors who have lost their jobs, lost their homes, and now are find themselves unable to secure necessities.

For them, North Coast Health Ministry provides critically needed health care services regardless of ability to pay. Please help us help neighbors in need. Your gift can make a difference.

We are bullish on generosity. We urge you to make a gift today. We urge you to consider including North Coast Health Ministry in your long-term plan.
Community West Foundation is a philanthropic partner of North Coast Health Ministry.  We are eager to work with you and your advisor to structure a gift which will help North Coast Health Ministry in a way that is most advantageous to you. There are gift options which provide predictable income streams to you as well. We would welcome an opportunity to meet with you.

Together, in this challenging spring, we have a unique opportunity now to make sure that our community is a caring community for all.

Susan Golden works with Community West Foundation, whose mission is to advance the health and well being of our community. 
 

Now is a great time to make a gift to the community that will offer help and hope to those who need it most. Thanks to various tax laws that encourage charitable giving, you can make a planned gift and receive some additional benefits.  Did you know that you can create a Charitable Gift Annuity that provides predictable income of at least 5% to you, receive income tax deductions, and help your community at the same time?  

Community West Foundation is a partner in philanthropy to North Coast Health Ministry and offers us their expertise in these kinds of planned gifts. We would welcome an opportunity to work with you and your advisor to structure a gift so it is optimally advantageous both to you and to the community.

For more information on Planned Giving opportunities, please contact Lee Elmore, Executive Director, North Coast Health Ministry at 216-228-7878, ext. 101.