THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

James and Marion McGrew

For most people, the prospect of making a significant gift to a favorite charity calls for a consultation with a knowledgeable professional, e.g., a financial planner or a CPA. Not so for Marion and James McGrew. When the McGrews decided to establish a charitable gift annuity for the St. Jude Memorial Foundation, they were able to skip that step. Jim, who has his own CPA firm, was well aware of the benefits and details before he contacted St. Jude. And Marion has the kind of technical knowledge that comes from serving a stint as a supportive secretary for the family business.

Although not the closest hospital, St. Jude Medical Center is the "home" hospital for the McGrews. Both Marion and Jim testify that they have "never experienced anything but excellent care" whether their visit was a trip to the emergency department or an overnight stay for an inpatient procedure. As grateful patients, they were motivated to help others receive the same kind of care. "We know of no better way to contribute," Marion says. According to Terry Brick, Memorial Foundation Board Chair, "It is always encouraging when patients are able to acknowledge their positive experiences at St. Jude by giving back in this way."

To fund their gift, Marion and Jim used 2,300 shares of a solid but underperforming stock. Today, the McGrews enjoy a much higher rate of return with the gift annuity than they received with the dividends from the stock. Both are pleased with the increased financial security that the lifetime payments from the gift provide. In addition, they are making a significant contribution to the construction of a new patient tower that is nearing completion at the medical center.

As one of the oldest-and most popular-forms of gifts with retained income, the charitable gift annuity is an ideal option for anyone who wants to make a gift and, at the same time, create a stream of income to ensure economic security. A charitable gift annuity is a simple contract between a donor and the St. Jude Memorial Foundation. Through this legal agreement, one can give money, securities or real estate, and in return, the Foundation agrees to pay the donor fixed payments for life. As the McGrews discovered, with a charitable gift annuity donors can achieve their philanthropic goals, increase income and gain substantial tax benefits at the same time.