Giving back is a way of life for New Albany couple

Edward and Kathleen Weinmann

Special to The Criterion

Both in their 90s, Edward and Kathleen Weinmann have created a legacy of giving throughout their lives.

They have been active members of St. Mary Parish in New Albany for all but one year of their 67 years of marriage.

“Giving back has been a way of life for us,” Edward Weinmann said. “We share time, talent and treasure with our parish, family and community. Practicing Christian stewardship was instilled in our generation.”

Edward worked for the U.S. Postal Service during his entire career. He began as a clerk and later became a foreman. He retired in 1976.

Kathleen worked at a local clothing store, making and altering clothes.

The couple survived the Depression, and consequently lived frugally and saved most of what they earned each year.

“We set aside a dollar each pay period to buy bonds, and we also purchased stock that grew in value,” Edward said.

The Weinmanns believe that charitable gift annuities are one of the best ways to generate personal income in retirement and give back to the Church.

They liked the idea that, in exchange for their charitable gift annuity, they will receive lifetime payments at a fixed payout, regardless of fluctuations in markets or interest rates.

The couple also gained tax-favored financial benefits from their charitable gift annuity.

The Weinmanns said their strong faith and inspiration from the Holy Spirit kindled their desire to build up the kingdom of God in gratitude for their blessings.

By funding a charitable gift annuity with their savings, they will continue to preserve the Catholic faith and create a lasting legacy for future generations.

It also is a win-win situation for the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, parishes, schools and ministry agencies.

Charitable gift annuities allow benefactors like the Weinmanns to choose the ministry areas that will benefit others in perpetuity through endowments after they die.

The Catholic Community Foundation has many options to support the work of the Church, and financially help the people served by Church ministries.

If given the opportunity, most people would like to leave a lasting legacy to the ministries that mean the most to them.

Through more tax-favored ways of giving, people can experience the joy of making a difference.

Whether people are planning for the future or seeking income today, a charitable gift annuity can benefit them and the Archdiocese of Indianapolis as well as their parish, school or ministry agency.

(For more information about charitable gift annuities, contact Ellen Brunner, director of planned giving for the Catholic Community Foundation and Office of Stewardship and Development, at 800-382-9836, ext. 1482, or 317-236-1482 or by e-mail at ebrunner@archindy.org. The planned giving website is located at www.archindy.org/plannedgiving.) †