Legacy Insert 032018

reate a egacy C L LOCAL guide to giving your time

and money 2018

A shelter pet’s hero

Photo by Melanie Wiseman

Elaine Johnson-Craig devotes her life to homeless pets at Roice-Hurst Humane Society Your Guide to Giving Locally

Produced by the BEACON’s Advertising Team

Visit us on the web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

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How much should I give?

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ike you, I am constantly asked to donate. It can seem overwhelming at times as I ask myself, “How much should I give?”

In the Old Testament, those of Jewish faith were commanded to bring a tenth of their earnings to the temple storehouse. My cousin, a Buddhist, feels no compulsion to tithe but gives generously, as he believes that it will eventually come back to him with interest. Some devout capitalists I know see no reason to give at all.

As a Christian, I believe that Jesus spoke of the right amount to give when he spoke of the poor widow who placed her last few cents in the temple’s offering.

Wow! Imagine giving all that you have to benefit another.

I have not done that. So until that day, the answer to “How much should I give?” is always “More.”

Create a Legacy

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Please keep an open heart while reading this special guide on donating your time and money. While there are many worthy causes in the area, I believe the organizations in this publication deserve your extra consideration. Read their stories thoughtfully, as they educate you about their mission, the people they serve and how you can volunteer your time or leave a financial legacy for future generations.

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2018

But I have no money But you have time! Our community would grind to a halt were it not for the hours donated by our retired community. Everyone has something to contribute. Thanks for heeding the call to help others.

Pat Brinegar, left, was chosen by readers as the BEACON’s 2017 Volunteer of the Year for her work at Pomona Elementary.

Vote for Volunteer of the Year The volunteers featured in this insert have also answered that call and have been nominated for the BEACON’s 2018 Volunteer of the Year award by the organizations they volunteer for. These outstanding volunteers have gone above and beyond their day-to-day responsibilities to make a difference in the lives of others. Make sure to vote for your favorite volunteer (voting instructions on page 10) and find out who was named Volunteer of the Year at BeaconFest on Thursday, April 19 at Two Rivers Convention Center. ■

Kevin K. VanGundy Publisher

2018

The estate planning and legacy giving disconnect

By Scott Claeys, HopeWest

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any of us make an annual donation to at least one charity, even more of us volunteer, and most of us will help a stranger.

But did you know only 8 percent of people include a charitable gift in their estate plans and only 40 percent have a valid and legal last will? These numbers surprise me not only because of the importance of estate planning, but also the immense benefits this planning will bring to your family, friends and the organizations and causes you care about.

Many people think of estate planning as another difficult conversation about death and taxes. The reality is with just a little planning it can be profoundly liberating. Think of it as an expression of your values.

What opportunities do you want for your family, friends and the causes that are important to you? When you plan well, your family can celebrate your life and legacy.

Most of us do not refer to ourselves as philanthropists or even think we have an “estate.” But the truth is, if you volunteer or make any contributions big or small to causes you believe in, that makes almost all of us philanthropists. It’s not the size of the gift, but rather, the spirit behind the gift that

If you volunteer or make any contributions to causes you believe in, that makes almost all of us philanthropists. makes it philanthropy. An estate is everything we own. It’s easy to overlook that many of your assets are not directed by your last will.

This includes individual retirement accounts (IRAs) and life insurance accounts that can be passed to beneficiaries outside of your will and outside of the probate court.

A crucial point is that transfers of an IRA to an individual that is not your spouse are subject to income tax, whereas if the charity is named as the beneficiary, 100 percent of the IRA will go to the charity tax free.

So when you’re considering your estate plan, I encourage you to remember the organizations that have served you or you hope will continue to serve your loved ones and community. Consider the community one of your heirs.

For more information on legacy giving or to receive a free copy of the HopeWest Wills Guide, contact Scott Claeys at 255-7219 or sclaeys@ hopewestco.org. ■

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Decide today.

Influence tomorrow.

Create Your Legacy

Join the HopeWest Legacy Society.

Your gift matters – together we can secure the future.

HopeWestCO.org | (970) 255-7219

SAN JUAN HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION PROMOTES A HEALTHY COMMUNITY BY ASSISTING WITH HEALTH PROGRAMS IN OUR REGION. The Foundation provides Healthcare Scholarships, Medical Equipment, Health Education, Lodging and Travel Assistance, support for cancer patients at San Juan Cancer Center through the Caring Friends Fund To donate or get involved, call

970-252-2580

www.sanjuanhf.org

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2018

A shelter pet’s hero: Elaine Johnson-Craig devotes her life to homeless pets at Roice-Hurst Humane Society

By Melanie Wiseman

H

is name was Winchester—a sweet, senior chocolate lab with sad, lost eyes who stole Elaine Johnson-Craig’s heart and changed the course of her life forever.

Johnson-Craig and her husband, Dan, adopted Winchester from Roice-Hurst Humane Society in December 2008, but it was a month before their schedules allowed them to bring him home.

Regular visits to the shelter during that month opened her eyes to the fact that the heroes taking care of the animals in the shelter were doing a lot with very little.

“Although I’d had a previous Roice-Hurst adoptee and donated sporadically, I’d never realized the amount of money and other resources it took to operate a nonprofit animal shelter,” said Johnson-Craig, 65. “I decided then and there to get involved as a volunteer and donate my time and skills to make a difference in the lives of homeless pets, and in the health and sustainability of the organization itself.”

Within months, Johnson-Craig was serving on Roice-Hurst’s board of directors. She served as board president, vice president and secretary during her six-year term, in addition to her involvement in fundraising, communications, grant writing, donations and animal welfare.

“I was in the right place at the right time, and they asked me to help,” she said.

But it wasn’t just Roice-Hurst that asked her for her help—the animals needed her as well.

“How can you say no to those faces?” she asked. “You can’t.”

Fulfilling her purpose Johnson-Craig had cats growing up, but they weren’t what she considers her soul mates.

“It wasn’t until my late husband, Ron, introduced me to the world of dogs 30 years ago that I found pets filled a hole in my heart I never even knew I had,” she said.

Throughout her career, Johnson-Craig has served in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, and currently owns Merry Maids in Grand Junction. With the support of her staff, she was able to devote more of her time to Roice-Hurst.

“I had been looking for my purpose my whole life, and I found it at 56 years old,” she said.

Johnson-Craig jumped in with both feet and has no regrets about the time and energy she has poured into the organization for almost a decade.

“I’ve kind of had two three-quarter time jobs over the years,” she said.

But that hasn’t mattered much because the passion she puts into her work with Roice-Hurst has always been about the animals.

“Animals are innocent—they have souls and they’re God’s creatures, just like we are,” she said. “We have dominion and it’s our responsibility to take care of these creatures who can’t take care of themselves. They give you their heart and you have to give them yours.”

For the love of pets It takes a lot more than the love of animals to keep the shelter doors open.

Aside from facing the challenges of running a nonprofit, Roice-Hurst also operates a shelter with precious inventory that requires

Winchester, the shelter dog that changed Elaine’s life foreve r. round-the-clock care all year long.

Johnson-Craig said it has all the expenses of a for-profit without all the resources.

In the summer of 2008, Roice-Hurst almost had to close its doors.

“But the community really stepped up, so we survived,” Johnson-Craig said. “When I joined the board in 2009, we needed to figure out how to lay a foundation so the organization is healthy, sustainable, makes the best impact, uses donations wisely, offers the best animal care and has successful adoption matches.”

She led the vision by attending workshops and seminars that were hosted by Best Friends Animal Society in Kanab, Utah, one of the country’s most notable nonprofit animal welfare organizations. She was part of a responsible, committed team of staff and volunteers who knew failure was not an option.

“The animals teach you love, responsibility, perspective, joy

2018

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voted almost a decade Elaine Johnson-Craig has de t Humane Society as a to the animals at Roice-Hurs lfare advocator, board supporter, adopter, animal we member and volunteer. and reality,” she said. “They teach you to enjoy the good times, and they teach you a lot about life and death. When I hear people say they could never adopt again after the pain of losing a pet, I believe the heart can expand— mine certainly has. There’s always room for one more. Maybe not today, but someday.”

Full speed ahead Along with many other dedicated board members, staff and volunteers, Johnson-Craig has helped steer Roice-Hurst on the progressive, impactful and sustainable path it’s on today.

“The foundation they laid was what allowed us to bring the shelter to where it is today,” said Anna Stout, Roice-Hurst’s executive director since 2015.

“The commitment Elaine and the rest of the board had in its dark hours and the countless unpaid hours they devoted to the organization to turn it around are legacies you can still see at Roice-Hurst.”

Johnson-Craig said while she isn’t the kind of person who can go to the shelter every day and walk the dogs and pet the cats, she does whatever she can to support those who do.

“Those are the heroes,” she said.

“I do my best to support those heroes…doing what I can within the limits of my personality and emotions.”

Roice-Hurst’s staff and volunteers have learned many valuable lessons over the years, including the fact that they can accomplish so much more when they collaborate with other animal welfare groups in Colorado and across the country.

“It really helps to be part of the big-

ger picture,” said Johnson-Craig.

“We’re really proud of our progression in joining the larger movement of keeping pets with their people, if we can.”

What’s new In support of this mission, Roice-Hurst started the Animal Resource Center in 2016. This program is aimed at strengthening the relationship between owners and pets, with a goal of preventing the need to surrender pets to the shelter for correctable behavior issues.

It also provides resources for more successful adoptions. Educational classes and individual behavior counseling for dogs and cats are available for free or low cost.

“We’ve come so far, and it’s been on the shoulders of so many wonderful, dedicated people from all walks of life,” said Johnson-Craig.

“Everyone can find their niche volunteering at Roice-Hurst if you’re passionate about animals.” ■

To connect with Roice-Hurst Humane Society, visit the shelter at 362 28 Road in Grand Junction, call 434-7337 or visit www.rhhumanesociety.org

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Foundation unlocks the power of the library T he library is a powerful resource for residents in Mesa County.

Here’s what a day at the library is like: Children and parents find a quiet corner where they can read together. Job seekers use public computers to fill out online employment applications. New arrivals to the United States learn English from volunteer tutors. Musicians record new material in a professional public studio. Students discover valuable classes in language, business skills and other topics among online e-resources. Authors use rare regional history documents to research new books.

Young readers cozy up to canine reading buddies and develop new confidence and literacy skills.

This is the power of the library.

Patrons log more than 770,000 visits to Mesa County Libraries’ eight locations each year, and each

of those visits puts the power of the library to work in someone’s life. No two patrons use the library in exactly the same way, whether they’re checking out a book, picking up a DVD, downloading an e-book, learning a language, sharpening a skill, or meeting friends.

In many cases, they’re doing something that can transform their life.

Want proof? Here’s what patrons say: “The Summer Reading Program got me in the habit of reading to my toddler.”

“Education is the backbone of freedom! Libraries help to educate the general population and maintain freedom.” “[The library is] a way to increase one’s education and to continue learning more things even after leaving school and college.”

“My library links me to ideas.

How can you put a price on that?

It’s an invaluable community asset and makes my life richer every day.”

“Books are a valuable resource that no one should be without. The library is a source for wonder and amazement and is vital for child development.”

“Living in a small rural community, it is easy to lose touch with ‘the real world.’ The library keeps us in the loop.”

“It’s a place where everyone feels welcome.”

“If we ask a question, the library will always assist in helping us get answers.”

“It allows me to access books and information that I need to do dayto-day activities and to do school.”

“My children have the opportunity to access more reading materials than I could provide.”

“It’s a place to learn and explore new things.”

“It serves as a safe place for kids

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after school, a place to study, a place to fit in.”

“It grows a love of reading in my children and allows us as home schoolers to research things easily.”

“So thankful this studio/library exists. It’s every bit of awesome in there.”

Mesa County Libraries touch lives in many ways. However, public funding alone does not allow the library to reach its full potential.

Generous supporters of the Mesa County Libraries Foundation are the key to unlocking the power of the library in local residents’ lives.

Foundation supporters are crucial to the library’s ability to provide a wide variety of services that enrich lives and build community through opportunities to learn, discover, create and connect.

For more information about the Mesa County Libraries Foundation, contact Development Director Karen Kllanxhja at 683-2438 or kkllanxhja@mcpld.org. ■

SUPPORT THE MESA COUNTY LIBRARIES FOUNDATION

UNLOCK THE POWER OF THE LIBRARY

The Power of the Library transforms lives.

Your generous �inancial support of the Mesa County Libraries Foundation helps our local public libraries enrich lives and build community through opportunities to learn, discover, create, and connect. Your tax-deductible gift to the Foundation helps provide programs, events, and facilities enjoyed by people of all ages.

Make checks payable and mail to: Mesa County Libraries Foundation 443 N. 6th St., Grand Junction, CO 81501

For more information about the Mesa County Libraries Foundation, contact Development Director Karen Kllanxhja at 970-683-2438 or kkllanxhja@mcpld.org

DONATE TO THE FOUNDATION ONLINE – Make an instant, secure donation using a credit or debit card online at mesacountylibraries.org

2018

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Montrose Community Foundation supports community causes one fund at a time T he Montrose Community Foundation (MCF) is fortunate to manage charitable funds for our community. It’s a job that we don’t take lightly. We strive to learn about our donors’ interests and philanthropic goals in order to make their giving more effective and impactful. We also offer tax benefits, invested funds, quarterly and monthly reports, and suggestions for relevant projects in need of funding.

Our last fiscal year, ending June 30, 2018, we granted $378,500 to programs and organizations through our donors and funds.

Through donor advised funds (DAF), individuals, families and

businesses can donate to the MCF when the timing is good for them.

Donors receive immediate tax deductions and then advise the MCF on which organizations or projects should receive the grants. DAFs are the fastest-growing charitable giving vehicle in the U.S. because they are one of the easiest and most tax-advantageous ways to give. Our DAFs gave over $50,000 to programs and organizations like The PIC Place, Habitat for Humanity of the San Juans, Kid’s Aid, HopeWest, Community Options, Trout Unlimited, Girls Scouts, Sherriff’s Posse, Botanical Society, Top of the Pines, EcoAction Partners and the Ute

...the Grants Review Committee awarded $54,300 to local organizations.

Indian Museum.

Agency funds are when local nonprofit organizations establish an endowment with the MCF. Our agency funds granted $6,300 back to nonprofit organizations to support local art organizations, scholarships for students and grants for teachers and schools.

The MCF Community Endowment Fund (Forever Fund) was established so we could put money back into the community to support programs and services. The MCF accepts donations for the Community Endowment Fund, which currently has over $700,000. The income and earnings from that endowment are given out during our annual MCF Impact grant cycle in the fall. This year, the Grants Review Committee awarded $54,300 to local organiza-

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tions. The larger the fund grows, the more we can grant back.

The MCF has worked with individuals, families and organizations for almost 30 years to help donors leave their mark on our community.

Individuals who choose to include the MCF in their estate plan—by will or designation, or through another deferred gift—receive the tax benefit and make a charitable gift. Bequests are easy to set up and provide donors with a range of giving options. Donors can elect to gift a specific dollar amount, percentage of their estate, or what remains after other bequests are satisfied, such as those to family members.

The savings in estate taxes resulting from a gift to the MCF can be significant, since bequests to the foundation earn a full charitable deduction on estate taxes.

For more information about starting a fund with the MCF, call 249-3900. ■

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Golden Circle Seniors is a vibrant force of volunteers dedicated to enriching the quality of life in their community. Your gift of time and/or money helps create new programs and stimulating activities at the Montrose Senior Center, including exercise programs, Tai Chi classes, nutritional resources, educational seminars, community lunches for all ages, dances and socialization opportunities.

Join the circle and enjoy the rewards! Call

Legacy Giving.

Plan for the Future.

970-252-4888

M-Thur. 10-3 Golden Circle Seniors, 1800 E. Pavilion Pl.

Because of your gifts... ...thousands of your neighbors find compassionate healthcare at MarillacHealth every year!

photo by John Anglim

Legacy Gifts provide enduring support for community healthcare for our most vulnerable families and individuals.

Please consider including MarillacHealth in your estate planning.

To learn more about Legacy Giving that will benefit your family and the mission of MarillacHealth, call the Development Department at (970) 298-2234 or visit www.MarillacHealth.org.

Two locations in Grand Junction: 2333 North 6th Street and 510 29 1/2 Road

2018

Volunteers needed to help fellow seniors

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he Montrose Senior Center is a lively place where local residents can get involved in programs and activities related to health, education, community and history. Seniors can improve their health and range of motion with movement exercises and Tai Chi classes; keep their minds sharp with games and seminars; and explore the region by participating in day trips to casinos, festivals and guided tours.

Behind the scenes is Golden Circle Seniors, a vibrant force of volunteers dedicated to enriching the quality of life for members in the community. This organization has been around since 1973, and is responsible for establishing the Montrose Senior Center, located at 1800 E. Pavilion Place, inside the Montrose Pavilion. They also sponsor the Hot Wheels Meals program that serves homebound seniors.

The Golden Circle Seniors are looking for volunteers to join them in providing nutritious meals to residents in the community.

Volunteers are needed for: Meal setup, setting up dining tables and serving area (8:30-9:30 a.m.)

Servers (starting at noon) Hosts (11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.) that greet people as they come in, dismiss tables to the food line once serving begins and take trays to those who need assistance.

Drivers and subs are needed to drive three different routes, averaging seven or eight stops each (11 a.m. to noon) Golden Circle Seniors operates entirely on fundraising, donations and people giving their time. To volunteer or more information, call 252-4888. ■

MarillacHealth: a medical home in the community

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or the past 30 years, MarillacHealth has been meeting a community need for accessible and affordable health care. This is our commitment to our community: to provide care to those in need, regardless of income or insurance status.

MarillacHealth delivers care to over 11,400 families and individuals of all ages each year. Whether they come for medical, dental, optical or behavioral services, all of our patients receive superior, integrated and comprehensive care, which is why many call Marillac their “medical home.”

Many share Marillac’s community commitment. They provide financial support through wills, trusts,

insurance policies, IRAs, real estate and other planned gifts. Legacy giving is a timeless way to make a lasting impact in our community while creating financial benefits for your estate and your family.

To learn more about Marillac Health and ways to give, call 298-2234. ■

2018

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STRiVE: person-centered

practices guide services, support

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TRiVE was founded on Valentine’s Day 1966. CEO Sharon Jacksi believes it’s a symbol of the many reasons the organization has such a big heart and has developed a culture of person centeredness.

STRiVE is a private, nonprofit agency serving individuals with developmental challenges and their families.

We support people who strive to meet their full potential. Whatever they need, STRiVE will help them find the best program or service within our system or others in the community. STRiVE supports individuals from birth to end of life in a variety of settings, serving 507 children and 900 adults, and operating 24/7 from 21 sites in the community. Over 350 staff members help the individuals in our programs.

We support children and families through developmental screening and therapeutic early intervention for infants and toddlers, support services for families who are caregivers for a child with disability and a multi-disciplinary diagnostic clinic for autism.

For adults, we offer group home and host home residential placements, supported living services for individuals living with family, daily living skills programs, and vocational and supported employment.

STRiVE also operates Uniquely Yours, a retail shop in downtown Grand Junction and the Western Colorado Botanical Gardens at 641 Struthers Ave. For more information about supporting STRiVE and its mission, call 243-3702 or download a pledge form at www.strivecolorado.org. ■

Offer a hand at Abraham Connection

H

ow often can you say that you have truly made a difference in someone’s life? Volunteers at The Abraham Connection, a homeless shelter in Delta County, touch lives every single day. In fact, these extraordinary volunteers change lives.

The Abraham Connection offers emergency food and shelter to homeless and hungry men, women and families. The organization’s mission is to offer a hand up, not a handout, helping guests move towards self-sufficiency. A volunteer team of case managers helps guests on their individual paths. Sometimes that means helping them get a photo ID or craft a resume, or helping them find community service outlets or mental health resources.

“We really want to help the people who come through our doors,” Board President Cheryl Oeltjen-

bruns said. “We don’t want to be a revolving door for our guests. That’s why case management services are so important.”

There is no special education or training required to work with guests in case management. Anyone who has a heart for helping change lives can be effective in this role.

The shelter has had many guests who have been successful and are now living independently.

How to volunteer The shelter is open from 6 p.m.8 a.m. Volunteers man the shelter in three different shifts (6 p.m. to midnight; midnight to 6 a.m. and 6-8 a.m.). There are opportunities to provide meals, help with administrative tasks, events and fundraising, and more.

Call 773-8290 or visit www.Delta AbrahamConnection.org to learn more. ■

Invest

CREATE A LEGACY

In the future.

Every dollar you contribute can change the course of a child’s life.

STRIVECOLORADO.ORG

970-250-1595

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Would you invest in positive outcomes for children with challenges in your community?

• More than 50% of children with developmental delays served in our infant/toddler Early Intervention program “graduate” from the program with age appropriate development.

• Without your assistance, 350+ infants and toddlers a year will face the prospect of lagging developmentally and needing years of support services.

Make a Difference “I volunteer at the shelter because I know what it’s like to need help.

I know sometimes you just need a hand, a hug, a simple smile, or to have someone tell you you’re not alone.” - Danielle, a shelter volunteer Make a Difference!

100% of your financial contribution directly benefits the homeless and hungry when you donate to the Abraham Connection Homeless Shelter.

Sponsor a guest for one night . . . $17.00 Sponsor a guest for one week . . . $119.00 Sponsor a guest for one month . . . $510.00

Please consider legacy giving!

You can truly make a difference in someone’s life!

Or give a monthly donation at www.DeltaAbrahamConnection.org

All gifts are tax deductible

970-773-8290

480 Silver Street | PO Box 910 Delta, CO 81416

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2018

Vote for our 2018 Volunteer of the Year T

he Volunteer of the Year is someone who goes above and beyond in making a difference in the lives of others. The winner will be announced at BeaconFest Boomer & Senior Fair at Two Rivers Convention Center on Thursday, April 19. With so many volunteers to choose from, we’re leaving it up to you, dear readers, to vote for this year’s Volunteer of the Year.

Vote online (easiest)

Mail-in ballot

Step 1: visit www.BeaconSeniorNews.com.

Step 2: Click the link in the right-hand column that says, “Vote for Volunteer of the

Year” (or visit www.beaconseniornews.com/vote-volunteer-of-the-year). You’ll be directed to the ballot form.

You can also mail in a ballot (found on page 11). Ballots must be received

by April 16, so plan ahead. Mail your ballot to:

Step 3: Fill out the ballot by providing your name and email address, then pick your favorite volunteer. (We will never send you unwanted emails or pass your information along to a third party.)

BEACON Senior Newspaper P.O. Box 3895 Grand Junction, CO 81502

Step 4: Click “Submit”

RUTHMARY ALLISON Nominated by Joanna Stortz, HopeWest Ruthmary Allison has volunteered with HopeWest since 2008, supporting the organization’s mission by supporting clinical staff and patients at our care center, and providing patient companionship, spiritual support, vigil support and making memory bears for families in remembrance of their loved one. To top it all, Ruthmary is a retired teacher—at one point, she worked with a patient who was learning to read. Ruthmary is truly a wonderful volunteer and we appreciate her in all that she does. We are forever grateful!

LOREE WILLIAMS Nominated by Leslye Mackelwich, La Villa Grande Care Center Loree Williams became part of the La Villa Grande family in 2009 when her husband became a resident here.

After he passed away three and a half years ago, she remained a part of our family by taking on the role of volunteer. Loree’s loving kindness and her calm personality are perfect for her role as one-to-one volunteer. She spends time with many of our residents twice a week—she reads to them, takes them snacks or coffee, repairs tears or lost buttons on clothing, reminisces and talks with them, or just listens to them and encourages them. Loree is a bright spot in what might otherwise be a gloomy time in our residents’ lives. We love and appreciate her very much.

DAVID BUTLER Nominated by Laura Taylor, Roice-Hurst Humane Society In addition to the selfless hours he dedicates to working on behavior modification and socialization with our shelter dogs and getting them ready for adoption, Dave Butler also works our low-cost vaccination clinics, helps at off-site events and recently offered to transport shelter animals. Dave has been a long-standing and dedicated volunteer to Roice-Hurst and contributed over 125 hours in 2017.

KEVIN KENNEDY Nominated by Weesa Hild, Habitat for Humanity of the San Juans Kevin Kennedy is our rock star volunteer. He started volunteering with Habitat for Humanity of the San Juans as a volunteer for our film festival in 2016. Since then, he has helped us build homes by volunteering two to three days a week. Kevin has been instrumental in helping families get into homes they would otherwise be unable to afford.

TERRI POTENTE Nominated by Diane Barger, Mesa County RSVP Terri Potente has been a Mesa County RSVP volunteer since 1999, and has been instrumental in impacting our community through over 3,100 volunteer hours. She has shared her skills and talents with local organizations, such as Loma Cat House, Salvation Army, Senior Initiative, City of Fruita Parks and Recreation and the Counseling and Education Center. She has been involved with AARP at the state level on the Executive Council and as Community Liaison.

Terri has been a strong advocate for animals and older adults, and is always willing to speak up for under-served populations. Her generous spirit and tremendous energy is an inspiration to others. She is often on the forefront of new initiatives and has the gift of empowering others to take action for what they believe in.

NANCY BALL Nominated by Tanya Ishikawa, League of Women Voters of Montrose County Nancy Ball works tirelessly to make sure the Montrose community has new programming to learn about voting issues, voter rights, campaigns, candidates and elections.

She puts out the monthly voter newsletter for the local League of Women Voters, and does lots of work behind the scenes to keep the organization running. She helps organize candidate forums and voter registration drives, and is very active on the board, keeping us up to date on state and national issues. She is creative, kind, open, supportive and a true go-getter.

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TOM SCHROER

ERIC WYNN Nominated by Niki Yenter, Gray Gourmet Eric Wynn started volunteering with Gray Gourmet’s home delivery in 2011 and has remained a steady force while continuing to work other jobs. When there is a need, Eric jumps in to help. He will have completed several tasks in the time that most are still figuring out what needs to be done. Eric delivers meals to our homebound customers five days a week. He has made friends, even on the routes that he subs for, because our homebound customers see him so regularly. Eric’s heart is so big—he has also raised money for a children’s orphanage in his hometown in Myanmar. Eric demonstrates in real-life the saying that actions speak louder than words.

Nominated by Christy Douglass, Harmony Acres Equestrian Center Tom Schroer is our behind-the-scenes guy at Harmony Acres Equestrian Center. He is one of those volunteers who always shows up and takes on the jobs no one else wants to, such as mucking out the horse pens, fixing our waterers at 6 a.m. in winter, or helping us with our off-the-wall projects—always with a smile on his face.

Though not a “horse person,” he has learned horse handling and side walking to assist disabled children and adults in our therapeutic riding program, and has helped gentle and train one of our rescue ponies. His calm and gentle demeanor lends confidence to all the horses and people around him.

CLEO CASTLE

WYNNE BOULEY Nominated by Bobbi Alpha, Community Concerts of the Grand Valley Wynne Bouley has many friends in the Grand Valley and regularly volunteers her time with multiple terrific nonprofit groups. We are lucky to have her as the PR and marketing volunteer for Community Concerts of the Grand Valley (CCGV). Wynne has a contagious sense of energy and enthusiasm in everything she does—it particularly shows when she’s promoting! She promotes each of our concerts and our spring sales campaign by personally contacting every media service in the area. She initiated a donation program for using our CCGV season tickets in many local nonprofit silent auctions and fundraising events.

Our season ticket sales have been sold out—in big part due to Wynne! Thank you, Wynne! We really love and appreciate you!

SUE SCHORE Nominated by Shar Weiser, Grand Valley Valor Quilters Sue Schore leads the local Quilts of Valor Foundation with the mission to cover veterans and active duty military personnel with a quilt of comfort and gratitude.

This small group of local volunteer quilters has presented quilts to over 40 local personnel in the short two and a half years it has been in existence.

Vote for your favorite Volunteer of the Year!

With so many wonderful volunteers to choose from, the BEACON needs your help selecting the 2018 Volunteer of the Year.

The winner will be announced at a special ceremony for all nominated volunteers at BeaconFest, Thursday, April 19 at Two Rivers Convention Center.

11

Nominated by Krisi Lente Cleo Castle, 74, volunteers at the library, food drive and Catholic outreach. She also helps with her granddaughter while her daughter works full time. Even though she is on a fixed income, Cleo constantly donates food, money and time to those in need. A retired registered nurse, she still contributes to health care by being a board member for our Emergency Services Committee, dedicating several hours and resources to ensuring we have the best plan in place in the case of a state-wide emergency. She is truly genuine and has the biggest heart.

KATE WEISSENBURGER Nominated by Susan Carter, CSU Extension Master Gardener Program Our Master Gardeners need to do 12 hours of education and 24 hours of volunteering. Kate Weissenburger did 74 hours of education and 104 of volunteering with it all focused on helping the Master Gardener Program. She mentors, teaches soils to apprentices, makes plant house calls, answers phones and helps with diagnostics.

Kate even came in to work the desk when her foot was in a support from surgery. We depend on our volunteers to help the community and Kate is a star at it. ■

Here’s how to make your vote count: 1) Read about each volunteer and their qualifications 2) Choose your favorite volunteer: ❒ ❒ ❒ ❒

Ruthmary Allison Terri Potente Wynne Bouley Tom Schroer

❒ ❒ ❒ ❒

David Butler Nancy Ball Sue Schore Cleo Castle

❒ ❒ ❒ ❒

Kevin Kennedy Eric Wynn Loree Williams Kate Weissenburger

3) Cast your vote Vote online at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com or mail this official ballot to: PO Box 3895, Grand Junction, CO 81502 The last day to vote online is April 15. Mail-in ballots must be received by Monday, April 16, 2018.

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CREATE A LEGACY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

2018

Empowering abilities with Community Options

Giving is easy when you have options.

C Empowering Abilities

Your gift to Community Options supports programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

IT’S AS SIMPLE AS 1-2-3

1 Legacy planning. Leave a planned gift and ensure the continuation of services 2 Send a donation. Visit communityoptionsinc.org or mail donations to Community Options, Inc. P.O. Box 31, Montrose, CO 81402

249-1412

3 Shop. Shop, Consign, and/or donate at our Second Impressions Consignment Store

ommunity Options believes that everyone has something to contribute, everyone needs meaningful relationships, people deserve the dignity of making choices and life is meant to be enjoyed.

We live these values each and every day.

As a non-profit agency, Community Options, Inc. has provided a vast array of quality services and supports since 1972. We currently serve nearly 500 citizens with disabilities in Montrose, Delta, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Ouray and San Miguel counties. Our broad scope of services and the people we serve range from early intervention for infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) who have delays or disabilities to comprehensive services for adults in their 90s.

We also provide job support and assistance with money management

and menu planning to those living as independently as possible in their own homes, and services to those who depend on us for feeding, bathing and their most basic personal care needs.

In every situation and with every person, we seek to empower their abilities to live happy, healthy, fulfilling, interconnected lives in their community.

Please consider joining us in this important mission Your legacy bequest can be a celebration, empowering abilities and enhancing people’s lives. Your gift will help ensure the continuation of services for the most vulnerable children and adults in our lives— these people are our loved ones, friends and neighbors with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

For more information, visit www.communityoptionsinc.org. ■

Feeding our community

S FEEDING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1996

Food for Thought Sharing Ministries Food Bank distributes food to families in Montrose, Delta, Gunnison, Ouray and San Miguel counties through our Supplemental Program, TEFAP, and CSFP for seniors 60+.

Shop for gifts at the Green Cupboard, 433 E. Main St.

Townsend Ave. N. 1st

49 N. 1st St., Montrose

Sharing Ministries

970-240-8385

The Green cupboard

Donate:

*

N. Grand Ave.

*

W. Main

No federal funding means we rely on you.

Rio Grande

haring Ministries Food Bank is a faith-based, 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that distributes supplemental food at no cost to families in need and smaller nonprofit organizations throughout Montrose, Delta, Ouray, San Miguel and Gunnison counties.

We are committed to sourcing the freshest food possible from local farmers, stores and businesses. In 2017, Sharing Ministries distributed over 900,000 pounds of food through 63,000 client visits. In addition to our own supplemental food program, we distribute The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP for seniors 60+).

Sharing Ministries Food Bank receives no federal funding. All funding is provided through generous

donors, and we welcome all food donations, volunteers and monetary gifts. Planned giving is also encouraged.

Sharing Ministries also operates The Green Cupboard located on Main Street in Montrose. The Green Cupboard is a chic women’s boutique that offers a unique shopping experience for all ages. New jewelry, scarfs, handbags and gifts are added weekly. One hundred percent of all proceeds from the store benefit Sharing Ministries Food Bank.

To learn more about how you can make a difference in the lives of Western Slope residents, call 240-8385 or visit www.sharingmin istries.com. You can also stop in at The Green Cupboard, 433 E. Main St. in Montrose or at the food bank, 49 N. First St. in Montrose. ■

2018

CREATE A LEGACY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

March is Write a Will Month:

Free seminars make it easy to plan for someday • What about living wills and health

D

oes “write my will” keep moving to the bottom of your to-do list? If you’ve already taken care of this, good for you. If you haven’t, join the club.

Why do so many of us postpone or completely avoid doing this until it’s too late?

Denial, for one thing. “Yeah, I know, I’ll die someday. Can we talk about something else now?”

Confusion is another reason. “I want to do my will, but I have no idea how or where to start.”

No worries! March is Write a Will month in Mesa County, which means you’ll find free community sessions to give you guidance for planning your someday with confidence and peace of mind.

Gregg Kampf of Hoskin Farina & Kampf, Marsha Harbert of Two Rivers Trust Company, and Erica Eng of Community Hospital will present information and insights into the world of wills and planned giving, with time for questions.

A variety of topics will include: • Do I really need a will?

• Is the process difficult or expensive?

care directives?

• How can I be sure that my kids, family and pets will be taken care of after I’m gone?

• Should I designate a power of attorney?

• Do I need help with all of this or can I do it myself?

• How do I leave money to my favorite charity?

• Can I leave a legacy that reflects my values?

• How do I keep the government from taking my money?

• What is a trust? ■

Space is limited.

Register today!

Registration is required.

These free sessions will be held in the Mesa County Central Library Community Room, 443 N. Sixth St. in Grand Junction. Register online for your preferred session at mesacountylibraries.org/events or call 243-4442.

Monday, March 5, 10:30 a.m. to noon Monday, March 12, 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.

Thursday, March 22, 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.

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13

Write a Will Month ...and, to my beloved dog, who never asked me for a dime…

How can you be sure that man’s best friend will be taken care of “someday”?

Free Write A Will Seminars

Limited Space, Registration Required:

Mesa County Central Library Community Room, 443 North 6th St.

MONDAY,

March 5 .................................10:30 a.m. - Noon

MONDAY,

March 12 ....................................... 5:30 - 7 p.m.

THURSDAY,

March 22 ....................................... 5:30 - 7 p.m.

Register online for your preferred session at:

Mesacountylibraries.org/events or call: 243-4442 Mesa County Write a Will Month is sponsored as a public service by:

Hoskin, Farina & Kampf (Presenter Gregg Kampf) Two Rivers Trust Company (Presenter Marsha Harbert) along with:

Beacon Senior News, The Daily Sentinel, MBC Grand Broadcasting, Rocky Mountain PBS, Mesa County Libraries, Third Sector Innovations and these nonprofits: Counseling & Education Center, Colorado West Land Trust, Family Health West, HopeWest, KAFM, Marillac Health, One Riverfront, Partners, Rivers Edge West, and the Western Colorado Community Foundation.

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CREATE A LEGACY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

2018

Avalon Theatre Foundation preserves history, community T he Avalon Theatre Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1991 by Pat Gormley with a mission to renovate and expand this wonderful downtown icon.

That vision was fulfilled when the newly restored Avalon Theatre opened in 2014 along with a new building, which houses an expanded lobby, multipurpose Encore Hall, and the Rooftop Terrace with wonderful views of downtown. All of this was made possible through donations from individuals, businesses, granting agencies and the City of Grand Junction.

The Avalon Theatre has been the jewel of Main Street for over 95 years and serves the community by showing movies, presenting concerts and performances and holding various events from weddings to conferences.

The foundation is not involved in the day-to-day management of The

Avalon; the City of Grand Junction owns and manages the building. We are a separate nonprofit that remains engaged in the preservation, promotion and enhancement of The Avalon for community benefit. Our focus is ensuring that The Avalon remains a place where our community gathers, as it has since it opened in 1923.

After completing our major capital fundraising project in 2016, we continue our mission by providing funds and support for the expanding uses of The Avalon. In 2016, we purchased display monitors, which can be seen in both buildings. We also provided funds for additional stage lighting, benefiting our symphony orchestra. In 2018, we completed Encore Hall.

In 2016, we also started a Community Benefit Fund, which supports local organizations and businesses by providing grants for

rental fees so they can host events at The Avalon. To date, we have provided over $5,000 to local groups.

We see this as a way to ensure that The Avalon continues to be enjoyed by our entire community.

Our project for 2018 is the purchase of a new and expanded sound system for the main theater.

The current sound system is old and technologically out of date. We are excited that the City has committed funding for approximately half of this project. With this new sound system, movies will be more enjoyable and small events will no longer need to rent outside sound systems.

We raise funds by asking for donations from our supporters. Another great way to support the foundation is to purchase a paver to be installed on the Rooftop Terrace. This is a beautiful way to honor a friend or loved one, to promote a business,

and to enshrine your legacy in the cultural fabric of our community.

You can also show your support by attending numerous events and fundraisers throughout the year, including AvalonFest and the Wild and Scenic Film Festival.

For the last 95 years, The Avalon Theatre has been an iconic piece of our local cultural community and continues to awe and entertain everyone who passes through its doors. You can help ensure that it remains an iconic piece of our historic Main Street for generations to come by making a donation to The Avalon Theatre Foundation, by purchasing a legacy paver, or even by attending one of our many yearly fundraising events.

For more information, call 7783088 or visit www.avalontheatre foundation.org. â–

2018

The things we value most:

an introduction to planned giving

By Penny Cowden

M

CREATE A LEGACY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

y dad spent a lot of time trying to teach me that things had no value. I remember as a teenager always wanting something.

One day he asked me, “Do you really think all these things will make you happy?”

This was after I insisted at great length that I had to have a leather coat I’d seen. In fact, I seem to recall pleading that I would “just die” if I didn’t get it.

I blithely answered, “Yes. I will be happy if I could just have that coat.”

Though likely disappointed at my response, my dad struck a deal: Spend some time each week for a month volunteering at something and he would buy me the coat. I was devastated, of course. After all, my friends didn’t have to do anything to get stuff, so why should I? But I grudgingly agreed.

My sister worked at the local hospital, so I signed up to volunteer.

I helped people find where they were going, pushed a cart around carrying magazines and books, and took flowers to patients. Despite my best efforts to hate the whole experience, the human drama called life started to penetrate. The experiences of the people I met were extraordinary and I was drawn to their stories. I volunteered for longer than a month.

Years later, I walked into another hospital to begin my first job as fundraising manager. It was scary.

I really didn’t have a clue what the job was all about but I figured it was just like marketing, and I’d been doing that for a while. It didn’t

take long to figure out how wrong I was. I realized that it wasn’t even about money but about people. So I began to really listen, and I read books and talked with anyone who could provide some insight into the world of philanthropy.

During one such conversation, a donor told me, “I give because it makes a difference. I’ve been very fortunate and I want to give back something really important.”

There it was in a nutshell—philanthropy in its pure and unvarnished form—a conscious well thought out plan to give because making a difference is important. That’s really all planned giving is about. It gets a bad reputation because people talk about it in terms of their will or their estate plan—neither of which is much fun to think about, as it involves planning for our permanent departure. Planned giving can also be intimidating because it’s wrapped up in all that talk about capital gains, IRS regulations and the legalities of trusts and annuities.

Those areas of planning shouldn’t be ignored, but they are not the heart of charitable planning.

We insure our cars, our houses, our toys and our very lives. Why wouldn’t we also spend some time figuring out how to insure our values? Planning your philanthropy is about passing on your values.

What’s important to you? Church?

Health care? Education? Social services? Most of us spend an important part of our lives giving to those things—not just donations but gifts of time and talent. These gifts have helped define our very essence.

“I give because it makes a difference.

I’ve been very fortunate and I want to give back something really important.”

So why not consider the ultimate gift—an enduring reflection of our passion and beliefs?

Think about philanthropist John D. Rockefeller. He wanted books to be accessible to everyone. He valued education and through planning, he was able to give eternal life to that value. Through gift planning, he gave the gift of books to generations of readers.

But this type of “value insurance” isn’t just for the wealthy. Planned giving is about a wonderful, anonymous donor who set up an endowment to make sure that cardiac rehabilitation care is available to everyone in need far into the future.

There’s also the donor whose bequest provides spiritual healing for patients in need. Of course, there are many tangible benefits to planning your present and future gifts, such as tax deductions, guaranteed income for you or family members, and gift plans that fit your specific estate and tax situations. An amazing benefit is the ability to choose

15

your “social capital” benefits rather than letting Uncle Sam choose through taxes. That’s the beauty of gift planning.

It’s accomplished through some powerful tools that provide an exhilarating opportunity to direct your assets exactly as you please while controlling that portion of your income and assets that can be retained—or lost. More importantly, every one of us will leave behind a set of intangibles that will clearly define our lives and our legacy.

These intangibles are comprised of the values we honor in our lives and the ways we demonstrate that honor. This legacy is a testimony to our lives and the ideals that will hopefully transcend any material inheritance we pass on.

If we could, how many of us would will a set of morals, ethics and principles to our children and grandchildren? Well, through charitable planning we can. Now that’s a gift that truly keeps on giving. ■

COMPLEXITY, MEET SIMPLICITY. When retirement can stretch on for decades, even the most educated among us can find themselves lost in planning for it. That’s where I come in. With a client-first commitment and the resources of a leading independent financial services firm behind me, I can help bring order to your financial life so you’re free to focus on what matters most. See what a Raymond James advisor can do for you. LIFE WELL PLANNED.

KENT SHETTLER Financial Advisor 200 Grand Avenue // Grand Junction, CO 81501 T 970.245.1600 // F 970.245.9538 kent.shettler@raymondjames.com // raymondjames.com/kentshettler ©2016 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Raymond James is a registered trademark of Raymond James Financial, Inc. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC, and are • NOT Deposits • NOT Insured by FDIC/NCUA or any other government agency • NOT GUARANTEED by the financial institution • Subject to risk and may lose value • Raymond James is not affiliated with the financial institution or the investment center. 16-BR4EE04-0002 JPR 2/1

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CREATE A LEGACY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Moving isis Living Moving Living

Moving is living: Blind Endeavors

raises awareness through exploration

L

RAISING AWARENESS THROUGH ADVENTURE AND EXPLORATION Promoting adaptive adventure programs for adults and children with visual impairments and other disabilities.

Inspiring through school presentations, outdoor adventures and research.

For more information about Legacy Contributions, please feel free to contact us

Blind Endeavors

P.O. Box 3035 Montrose, CO 81402 www.blindendeavors.org

970-787-5438

Moving is Living

MAKE AN IMPACT

THAT’S BEYOND MEASURE HOW DOES GIRLS ON THE RUN IMPACT GIRLS? • 97% of girls learned critical life skills at Girls on the Run like Seeing young girls begin resolving to managing emotions, conflict, others activate theirhelping potential and or making decisions boldy intentional pursue their dreams is • 85% of girls improved in confian extraordinary experience. dence, But beingcompetence, part of the caring, character or connection to transformation can be others through their participation absolutely life-changing. You in GOTR

can help make an impact on BElives A PART OF GIRLS ON THE RUN the of girls in your • Help a girl you know community by encouragingget girls youinvolved know to participant, • Volunteer as a coach, volunteering or donating! running buddy or at a race www.gotrwesterncolorado.org • Donate.

www.gotrwesterncolorado.org 970.257.9267 jill@gotrwesterncolorado.org

2018

oss of sight is one of the most difficult challenges a person can face—it can close off the world to an individual in a variety of ways.

The Blind Endeavors Foundation’s mission is to challenge and inspire people of all abilities to explore new ways of living through movement. Our home base is in Montrose, but our outreach is worldwide. We serve blinded veterans, and youth and adults with visual impairments by promoting awareness and education in schools and institutions across America, conducting research and building unique athletic programs to help people pursue bold endeavors around the world.

“Blindness is a life-long challenge. Stare into the darkness and you’ll never find your way. Explore through the darkness and you’re bound to stumble upon a great adventure,” President and Founder Steve Baskis said.

2/9/2018

Your legacy gift will: • Promote awareness and education, inspiring students and the public to approach life from a different perspective to shape future systems and technology.

• Allow exploration. From kayaking on the Ridgway Reservoir, backcountry skiing in the San Juans, camping in the backyard or cycling through the western slope, our programs are tailored from the novice to the expert.

• Provide scholarships/grants.

Grants are given to those with sight loss so they can attend specialized recreational programs that we may not provide.

Leave a legacy today by calling 787-5438 or emailing info@blind endeavors.org. Visit www.blind endeavors.org or mail your donation to Blind Endeavors Foundation, P.O. Box 3035, Montrose, CO 81401 ■

Changing lives for girls in western Colorado “If you are a girl who is bad at making friends, and you sit alone each day…that was me. I was the person out of the crowd. Then, I joined Girls on the Run. It changed my life! Now I have people who understand me. I love my life because of GOTR.” - Colleen, age 9.

Girls on the Run (GOTR) has been empowering girls in western Colorado for more than 17 years.

Eighteen years ago, we started with 12 coaches and 40 girls. Now we will have over 2,500 participants mentored by more than 550 volunteer coaches.

Although there are many GOTR councils throughout the nation, Girls on the Run of Western Colorado has one of the lowest registration fees, with scholarships avail-

able to girls who need them. GOTR is possible for all girls, thanks to the support of our communities, individuals, businesses and foundations that contribute money, and volunteers who give their time and talents to our programs.

Seeing a transformation like Colleen’s is extraordinary, but being part of it can be absolutely life changing. We encourage you to be part of Girls on the Run of Western Colorado by donating, volunteering as a running buddy or at one of our races, and encouraging girls you know in third through eighth grade to sign up.

Learn more at www.gotrwestern colorado.org, call 257-9267 or email jill@gotrwesterncolorado.org. ■

2018

Be a champion to our nation’s heroes T

CREATE A LEGACY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

he Veterans Art Center (VAC) was the result of a vision, and that vision has flourished. Our mission has exceeded expectations since the organization’s founding five years ago—to heal veterans and their families from hidden wounds through art and art-related activities.

The staff and volunteers at the VAC and Operation Revamp, 307 S. 12th St. in Grand Junction, help veterans excel by providing peer support, alternative healing, crisis support, shelter and transportation.

Programs and services are free to veterans and their families, and all of the needed supplies, equipment and expertise are included.

We proudly and successfully serve more than

800 veterans and family members of veterans each year. Veterans and family members log over 20,000 hours at the VAC annually.

The VAC is running low on space, as new veterans, tools and equipment arrive daily. With your help, we can continue growing and expanding our services to veterans in need. We have the opportunity to purchase property next door. The additional space and parking will provide veterans with better access to the center, more studio space, better readiness of supplies, upgraded storage for veterans, a kid’s art room and much needed healing space.

Create a lasting legacy and help our veterans heal. Contact the Veterans Art Center at 4623126 to find out how you can be a champion to our nation’s heroes. ■

It’s getting crowded around here!

Your donation to the Veterans Art Center will help us purchase the property next door, allowing us additional parking for better access to and from the building, more studio space for art activities, upgraded facilities and more.

Call today to see how you can support our veterans!

462-3126 307 S. 12th St., Grand Junction, CO www.operationrevamp.org Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday

All Points Transit Connecting Your Community

“If it wasn't for All Points Transit,

I'd have no one to talk to except 4 walls!

All Points has been a real blessing.”

All Points Transit is a local non-proot organization. Donate at www.allpointstransit.org or call 970-249-0128

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CREATE A LEGACY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

2018

Remember animals in Who will care for them when you can’t? your legacy plans

By Anna Stout, Roice-Hurst Humane Society

For over 50 years, Roice-Hurst Humane Society has served our community’s homeless pets and the people who love them.

Call us today to learn about legacy giving and safeguard their future for generations to come.

www.rhhumanesociety.org

970-434-7337

G R A N D JUNCTION

GIVING CLUBS

A fun and easy way to give Grand Junction Giving Clubs have donated over $300,000 to local nonprofits. It’s crazy to think that just three years ago this whole concept was just a crazy idea. But it’s working!

The clubs meet just four times a year. At each meeting you are invited to nominate a local charity of To join the Guys Giving Club your choice. Three of those nominees are chosen by call Kevin K. VanGundy random. The person who placed the nomination will 970-243-8829 then speak briefly about why they chose that nonprofit.

A vote is taken and a winner chosen. Each Giving Club To join the member is then asked to write a $100 check to that Womens Giving Club nonprofit. The money is collected and given to that call Judy Vanderleest charity. No administrative fees, no strings attached, 970-260-6140 no tickets to sell, no cookies to deliver.

I

recently had a difficult conversation with a close friend about life and death. What started as lighthearted banter about the “rules” of our funerals (no black clothing or cut flowers, lots of glitter, and possibly even a stand-up comedian to give my eulogy) quickly transformed into a deep examination of what other instructions each wanted to leave the other in charge of carrying out. The word that rang loudly in my head when we parted was “legacy.” We both wanted to ensure the other would look after our individual legacy.

For each of us, the concept of our legacies meant something different.

Her children and family are a big factor in her legacy, as well as her volunteer work at a local nonprofit.

My causes and work are a big factor in mine, rooted in my deep love for this community. In both cases, we spoke of our wishes to ensure they are provided for and protected long after we are gone.

As I have watched dear friends and family members go through the devastating experiences of battling cancer, losing loved ones to violence and the frequent reminders of our mortality, I have spent a lot of time thinking about what comes next. I have realized one thing: The only control I have over what happens when I am gone is what I put in place now. I sat down for the first time to contemplate my will, to designate beneficiaries, and to make plans for my animals after I am gone.

I admit I did not fully understand

what legacy giving meant until I started at Roice-Hurst Humane Society and saw the impact of gifts left by generous and loving people in their end-of-life plans. I quickly witnessed the power of these gifts to continue caring for animals when that person was no longer here to do so. That is the true meaning of legacy.

At Roice-Hurst Humane Society, we created a charitable endowment fund last year to support our community’s animals in perpetuity and open a new avenue for legacy giving to the shelter. Your contribution to this fund gives year after year, long after you are no longer here to support the shelter. It provides the organization a permanent source of funding while allowing you to leave a true legacy through your giving.

When I think about my personal legacy, I want to make sure the organizations and causes I support today are a part of it, and that those causes carry my legacy far beyond my memory. Consider joining me in including Roice-Hurst in your will and estate plans, ensuring the care of thousands of animals to come.

For the past five decades, Roice-Hurst, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit, has saved and re-homed thousands of cats and dogs. By remembering Roice-Hurst in your will or other estate planning, you can change the lives of homeless pets forever. You’ll be leaving a life-saving legacy and paving the way for the next generation of kindness to animals.

For more information, call 434-7337 or visit www.rhhumanesociety.org.

■

The only control I have over what happens when I am gone is what I put in place now.

2018

CREATE A LEGACY

www.BeaconSeniorNews.com

Permanent book funds supply books for generations

T

he Libraries of Montrose County Foundation was established in 2008 to provide an ongoing source of funds to supplement the books and other materials at Montrose County Libraries. The foundation supports public libraries in Montrose, Naturita, Nucla and Paradox as well as the Montrose Regional Library District Bookmobile. The foundation raises money for libraries primarily through permanent book funds, which are housed at the Montrose Community Foundation.

What better way to honor a family member or friend, commemorate a special occasion and support libraries? For years to come, your generous gift will be used and appreciated by readers at the library.

With a gift of $2,500 or more (which can be pledged over five years, at just $42 per month), you

can establish a permanent book fund, essentially creating your own endowment for the library. Your gift will be invested in perpetuity through an agency fund at the Montrose Community Foundation, and its income will be used to purchase books annually.

You can name your book fund, which will be added to a plaque in the library and printed on bookplates to be placed in each book that is purchased. At an average purchase price of $20 per book, your fund will add at least six new books to the library’s shelves each year, and a list of these books will be sent annually to the donor or your designee.

To learn more about permanent book funds, contact Paul at 2499656 or ppaladino@montrose library.org. ■

Connecting us to the lands we love

RiversEdge West brings education-

Colorado West Land Trust is dedicated to preserving the incredible landscapes that surround us in western Colorado. Through our efforts, 120,000 acres have been conserved, from the Bookcliffs to the San Juan Mountains, from the Utah-Colorado border to Blue Mesa Reservoir.

One Riverfront was founded in 1985 to reclaim the banks of the Colorado River from decades of neglect. Currently, there are over 30 miles of public, recreational trails that can be accessed from several locations in Palisade, Grand Junction and Fruita, including the Riverfront Trail, a paved path that travels predominantly along the banks of the Colorado River.

al resources and expertise to rid riverside lands of invasive plants and restore natives like cottonwood and willow. In the Grand Valley, we are working to restore nearly 2,500 acres of land and have mitigated flood and wildfire risks to the community. Our efforts have created nearly 220 jobs for local contractors and at-risk young adults.

Your legacy will help us ensure the continued preservation and stewardship of local lands and/or rivers for future generations.

For membership or donation information, contact Colorado West Land Trust at 263-5443 or www. cowestlandtrust.org, One Riverfront at 683-4333 or www.oneriverfront. org, and RiversEdge West at 2567400 or www.riversedgewest.org.■

Provide Books for Generations to Come Establish a Permanent Book Fund.

Your Contribution of $2500 ($42/mo) will establish a fund to provide books in Montrose County Libraries Choose the Genre and Library to make a difference locally

Call 970-249-9656 320 S. 2nd St Montrose, CO 81401 • www.montroselibrary.org

Leave a legacy to help ensure that the Grand Valley’s natural heritage, scenic landscapes and river corridors will benefit future generations.

Colorado West Land Trust is dedicated to protecting and enhancing western Colorado’s working farms and ranches, wildlife habitat and scenic landscapes.

Call Mary Hughes at (970) 263-5443 or visit cowestlandtrust.org One Riverfront is developing a Colorado River system that is a centerpiece of the Grand Valley’s ecologic, economic, cultural and recreational values.

Call Michele Rohrbach at (970) 683-4333 or visit oneriverfront.org RiversEdge West (formerly Tamarisk Coalition) is committed to restoring rivers in the West, thereby protecting water resources, and facilitating jobs for young people, veterans and local contractors.

RiversEdge engages local community volunteers, creates recreation opportunities and revitalizes our natural heritage for future generations.

Call Stacy Beaugh at (970) 256-7400 or visit RiversEdgeWest.org

19

GRAND JUNCTION

Enjoy the area’s largest boomer and senior fair! FREE admission, entertainment, seminars, food!

GRAND JUNCTION

April 19, 2018, 9:00 a.m - 3:00 p.m.

Two Rivers Convention Center, Grand Junction For information call 243-8829