Written by Jessica Gmitter
Judy Maizlish recalls that her parents always prioritized community involvement
and giving to others, even when funds were limited. "Giving is in
my blood," she says. Though she's past retirement age, Maizlish
remains willing to give her time to a job she loves. She serves as executive
director at Independence Center, a small, nonprofit residential program
in Los Angeles for people with social and learning disabilities. She commutes
45 minutes there each day and 90-plus minutes home, to help residents
gain skills they'll need to be independent. "I'm passionate
about our mission, but I also love where I live, so the commute is worth
it," she explains. And as a widow, she says her job and the relationships
she's built through it offer a sense of community.
Committed to Her Communities
As a resident of Rancho Palos Verdes for 51 years, she has seen firsthand
how her local hospital, Torrance Memorial Medical Center, takes care of
the community's physical and mental health and offers opportunities
for intellectual growth and lifestyle improvement. "I plan to be
around at least another 15 years, and I want to be part of a community
where I can stay involved," shares Maizlish, now 83. Her observations
about Torrance Memorial led to the decision to contribute through a charitable
gift annuity. With this type of planned gift, the donor agrees to make
a tax-deductible donation of cash, stocks or other assets to the Torrance
Memorial Foundation, whose fundraising supports the continued growth and
development of the medical center. In return the donor receives a fixed
amount each year for the rest of his/her life. "Torrance Memorial
plays such a big part in our community and does so much to help people,"
Maizlish says. "They offer workshops on everything from estate planning
to developing better balance. Giving to the medical center is also practical,
as I'm not getting any younger, and at some point I suspect I'll
need more services from them beyond my family physician." She says
she chooses Torrance Memorial for her health care because it is "a
huge organization, but with that community centered, small-town feel.
We're lucky to have access to the resources and knowledge Torrance
Memorial offers to keep us healthy," she says. "My gift is an
investment in the sense that I know I will get my money back through the
services they provide.
What Is a Charitable Gift Annuity?
Establishing a charitable gift annuity with Torrance Memorial Foundation
allows you to support our mission and receive steady payments during your
retirement years. You can begin receiving payments immediately or defer
payments to a time you designate in the future.
How It Works
Through a simple contract, you make a donation of cash or securities to
Torrance Memorial Foundation, and you receive a fixed amount each year
for the rest of your life, and the life of your spouse if you choose.
Your age when the payments begin determines the annual payout rate. The
older you are, the higher your fixed rate. You receive payments for life,
and whatever is left after your lifetime goes to Torrance Memorial.
Tax Benefits
You receive an income tax deduction for a portion of your gift in the year
you set up your gift annuity. Your annuity payments are also partially
tax-free throughout your estimated life expectancy.
We Can Help
Contact Sandy VandenBerge at 310-784-4843 or Sandy.VandenBerge@tmmc.com
with any questions. You may also visit: torrancememorial.org/plannedgiving
and click on Plan by Age to learn more. The online calculator can determine
payment amounts and tax benefits for your age and donation amount.