Gift Planning
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| Gary McConnell |
Gary McConnell believes in random acts of kindness. He believes that little things can mean the world to others. He also believes in taking your blessings and giving to others in need.
Gary's spirit of giving came from growing up on the farm in a time where the farms were so small that you had to share with neighbors and support each other to make it. Gary remembers, "There was a time when a neighbor had to have an operation and while he was in the hospital and recovering, all the neighbors pitched in to do the chores on the farm he would normally have done. He wouldn't have managed without this support."
Gary's passion for the hospital community came from his experience working at Methodist Hospital in Sioux City as a college student. He had a supervisor that supported him getting a degree, and even allowed him to study when there was no work to do. He enjoyed it so much that he even considered going into the medical field. However, Gary's college studies and his natural ability with numbers led him to a career as a Certified Public Accountant.
As a CPA, Gary was always looking for ways to make wise investments. That is why taking advantage of the tax-free IRA Charitable Rollover was a perfect fit for him. Gary gave to Methodist Hospital Foundation from his IRA at the end of 2010, and in addition he had his gift doubled as part of the Defining Moment Capital Campaign. The tax-free IRA Charitable Rollover has been extended to 2011 and he plans to take advantage of the opportunity again. "My wife, Kathy, and I have more than we need so why not share it with others?" says Gary. "Methodist Health System is one of the great institutions in Omaha that stays true to its mission, and we need to support them as best we can so that these types of institutions survive."
Gary also set up the Gary and Kathy McConnell Scholarship to help students in financial need. It was a way to get the most for their money. Gary sees it as a way to help an institution train students the way they should be trained and help young people have a great career. Gary states, "So many good feelings come back to you. It is worth making that kind of investment." Gary himself was the recipient of a scholarship his senior year in college. It was an unexpected gift to him, and he loves being able to do the same for others. In addition, Gary and Kathy have named Methodist Hospital Foundation in their will so that someday they can give even more.
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The information on this website is not intended as legal or tax advice. For legal or tax advice, please consult an attorney. Figures cited in examples are for hypothetical purposes only and are subject to change. References to estate and income taxes apply to federal taxes only. State income/estate taxes or state law may impact your results.
