Alan and Donna Rosenberg were revising their estate plans as Traditional Congregation’s Create a Jewish Legacy program reached a crescendo. Learning about the program solidified their desire to make plans for a significant charitable gift to the Jewish community – which they believed was the most impactful way to assist organizations in their important work. They began exploring various gift vehicles, finally settling on a Charitable Remainder Unitrust (CRUT) to benefit Jewish Family & Children’s Services, Jewish Federation of St. Louis and Traditional Congregation.
“We have confidence that in establishing a CRUT we made a decision that will benefit us financially today, while allowing us to leave a legacy for the years to come,” Donna said. A Charitable Remainder Unitrust is a lump sum gift to a charity that pays an annual annuity to the donor or other designated beneficiary throughout their lives or for a term of years. Upon the death of the last beneficiary, the remainder of the trust passes to the charity. In establishing the CRUT, the Rosenberg’s received a partial tax deduction this year and will receive guaranteed income for the next 15 years. “The CRUT has all the advantages we were looking for. We were able to make a charitable gift, receive a tax deduction and still guarantee income for the next 15 years. And it’s more solid than a bequest. It’s a done deal,” Alan explained.
The Rosenberg’s believe strongly in their obligation to take care of the Jewish community and ensure its survival. This was their primary motivation for a gift that would allow them to support multiple organizations. The recipient agencies they selected had either made a personal impact on their lives, or they felt were vital to ensure a thriving community.
As long time supporters of JF&CS, the Rosenberg’s felt strongly that the organization’s support of the Jewish community and broader St. Louis community is of utmost importance. “We are dedicated to their mission,” Donna explained. “Their work is especially meaningful to us because they help the most vulnerable in our midst.”
A gift to Traditional congregation acknowledged the critical role the synagogue has played in their lives. As members for 37 years, the congregation has been there for them in their happiest and saddest moments and they wanted to ensure its future.
Their gift to Jewish Federation, as they said “… covers all of our bases. It enhances the community through programs like Create a Jewish Legacy, and allows us to give both locally and globally to support our fellow Jews.”
“Above all,” Alan explained, “We want people to know that while they may be hearing about this program from their synagogue or another beneficiary agency, it’s a program for the whole community. Please think about what’s meaningful to you and consider a gift to ensure the future of the St. Louis Jewish community.”
