Visionary Gift

When you first meet Seattle residents Bob and Lupe Reinstma, you are struck by their warmth and down-to-earth nature. Bob, a long-time supporter of FFB, was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) 60 years ago and has been completely blind for 40 years. A number of his family members-a brother, several cousins and uncles-also faced the challenges of living with RP. Bob now suspects that two of his great grandsons may have the disease. But despite his RP, Bob has never let his visual impairment stand in his way. And while Bob may have lost his sight, his actions tell you that he is certainly a man of vision.

Throughout his life, Bob owned and managed rental properties and made a number of sound real estate investments to help support his family. Now, Bob and Lupe have discovered another way to make a wise investment for themselves while helping fund the important work of The Foundation Fighting Blindness.

Bob and Lupe recently made the largest planned gift in The Foundation's history through a charitable remainder trust (CRT). A CRT allows individuals to receive regular income in return for donating cash, securities, or real estate to FFB. Another big advantage of a charitable remainder trust is that it provides the donor with a significant immediate charitable contribution deduction on their income tax return, it lets donors contributing highly appreciated assets avoid costly capital gains tax, and it avoids gift and estate taxes.

"I have known and trusted The Foundation Fighting Blindness for more than 30 years," said Bob. "A planned gift is really a win-win for everyone involved. In this case, the charitable remainder trust will provide us with an income throughout our lives and at the end of the trust term, the remaining balance of the investment will go to FFB. We have attended several FFB VISIONS Conferences, and I never cease to be amazed at the tremendous progress being made by The Foundation-funded scientists who are continuing to make great strides toward treatments and cures. I don't worry about a cure for myself, but I believe the research will benefit future generations."

Bob and Lupe recognize that the charitable remainder trust and the charitable gift annuity they have created to benefit FFB are an excellent way to achieve their financial goals while helping to support The Foundation. "We can individualize a plan to fit the financial needs of anyone who wants to support FFB and our critical mission while ensuring a life income and favorable tax treatment for themselves and their family," said Stu Turgel, Director of Planned Giving. "Through their remarkable generosity, the Reinstmas are helping to light the darkness for so many future generations and creating a wonderful philanthropic legacy."

For more information about how legacy gifts such as bequests, trusts, gift annuities and other life income gifts can help support FFB and your family, contact Stu Turgel at 800-683-5555.