A Legacy of Inspiring Others to be Generous

A Legacy of Inspiring Others to be Generous

By Mary Quilici Aumack, CEO

I often refer to the Catholic Community Foundation as a connector; connecting generous people to important ministries and programs. We walk with individuals and families as they develop and execute their philanthropic strategies. Many of these plans ultimately manifest in a legacy plan.

For the past 10+ years I have walked that path (or mostly followed along) with Dr. Joseph Krackeler. When I joined the board of the Foundation in 2008, Joe was already involved as a founding member. He provided great leadership in the formation of the Foundation and the crafting and management of the Rooted in Faith campaign. 

Joe and Mary at a goodbye celebration for Joe when he left the Foundation Board in 2013

In 2010 we commenced a process of deep strategic planning for the next steps of the Foundation. Joe was central to this planning. He was passionate about the idea that we need to inspire people to leave “single digit percentages” of their estates to charity. This mantra has stayed with me as we have worked with many families in solidifying their legacy plans.

Joe has always been generous. Moreover, he has long been involved in inspiring others to contribute to key causes. He was a leader for his parish, Saint Nicholas, in raising funds for the Rooted in Faith Campaign. He also spearheaded the activity to raise funds for the parish center, named for his late wife Meg. He continues that leadership in developing funds for ministry in the Order of Malta. He and his wife Rita provide ongoing generous support to many nonprofits.

It seems fitting that Joe would execute his legacy plans with the Foundation, and he has done just that. When I discussed this article with Joe, he told me, “The Foundation has contributed significantly to helping me create my legacy plan.”

Joe’s Impact

The objective of Joe’s legacy plan is to inspire his four children to continue a tradition of giving. To that end, he has set up a Donor Advised Fund, providing “charitable equity” for his family to respond to changing community needs after his death. His goal is that his children will gather to make joint decisions on important community improvement and ministry. 

I know that Joe’s greatest hope and joy is to inspire others to his “single digit percentage” approach to leaving a legacy and providing FOREVER VALUE to the ministries that formed us and the agencies that seek a better tomorrow.

I for one, am grateful for his inspiration and example in my life.

To learn more about legacy giving, visit catholiccf.org/give-later

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