Phil and Alicia had a successful business developing both residential and commercial real estate. They realized that their assets provided more income than they need for their family's current living expenses; however they wanted to maintain their assets to ensure their grandchildren would have resources for college educations.

Phil: "It really has been a wonderful ride. When we first started developing residential housing, we had no idea where it would all lead. We were fortunate to make some choices that really set up the company for success. It's grown beyond our wildest dreams."

Alicia: "We have been able to provide a wonderful home for our children, but they are off on their own now with their own families. While the company has grown, our immediate needs have shrunk."

Phil: "Not too long ago, we sat down with our kids and our advisors and talked about what was important to us and what we really wanted. Our kids are all doing fine on their own we certainly don't need more. Our attorney told us about something called a charitable lead trust funded with some of our excess assets."

Alicia: "It sounded great to us - some tax benefits and our estate remains intact for our grandchildren's educations. While we are helping to make a difference in other people's lives, we're able to do it while we're here and can be part of it. It really feels good to see firsthand how the income from the trust can really make a difference."

Phil and Alicia wanted to contribute $250,000. They placed a sufficient amount of income producing commercial property into a Charitable Lead Trust (CLT) that would make annual payments of $25,000 over ten years. This will provide the charity with $250,000 in total and after ten years, the assets will pass to the donor's heirs.

As we said earlier, there are as many ways to support the United Methodist Church as there are needs for your support. Please contact us should you have questions or if you would like to discuss your personal circumstances to see how you can enrich your heart and the lives of others as many others already have. The next page has some final thoughts.