Legacy Donor Stories

The following stories are illustrative examples designed to demonstrate common planned giving opportunities. They do not represent actual donors.

Group of young adults having a picnic and playing guitar outdoors in a park during autumn.
Three elderly people, two men and one woman, sit close together looking at a photo album or scrapbook.

Please click on the examples below to see donor stories

  • Joe & Anna

    After years of supporting St. Philip's ministry, Joe and Anna wanted their faith to continue making an impact beyond their lifetimes. Working with their attorney, they included a bequest in their wills to support the St. Philip Lutheran Legacy Endowment Fund.

    Why they chose this option:
    A simple, flexible way to leave a lasting legacy while retaining full control of their assets during life.

  • Joanne

    Joanne wanted to honor her late husband's commitment to St. Philip while providing for her family. After meeting with her attorney, she designated the Legacy Endowment Fund as the beneficiary of her IRA.

    Why she chose this option:
    A beneficiary designation was easy to complete and provided potential tax advantages for her heirs.

  • Patricia & Clara

    As retirement approached, Patricia and Clara sought financial stability while supporting causes they loved. Both used charitable gift annuities funded with appreciated stock.

    Why they chose this option:
    They received fixed income payments, potential tax benefits, and the satisfaction of supporting future ministry.

  • Susan & Kevin

    Susan and Kevin owned property that had increased significantly in value. By donating a portion of the property before it was sold, they were able to support the Legacy Fund while reducing potential tax burdens.

    Why they chose this option:
    It allowed them to maximize both their charitable impact and potential tax savings.

  • Pat & Shelly

    Longtime volunteers at St. Philip, Pat and Shelly wanted their commitment to continue long into the future. They chose to make a gift directly to the Legacy Endowment Fund.

    Why they chose this option:
    Their gift will continue supporting ministry for generations to come.

  • June

    June wanted to care for her children while also supporting the church she loved. Working with advisors, she explored a trust arrangement that provided benefits for family members before ultimately supporting the Legacy Fund.

    Why she chose this option:
    It allowed her to balance family priorities with charitable giving.