Chuck and Trudy* Center

When Chuck and Trudy* Center learned about the Community Foundation’s Legacy Society through a letter from some acquaintances of theirs, they decided they wanted to participate. The idea of having their philanthropic goals detailed in their will resonated with them. The Centers always felt, “we have been very blessed, and we would like to see our blessings carried on after we are gone.” The couple met with their financial advisor as well as staff at the Community Foundation to determine the best option for giving. Since they both had a lifelong love for animals, they chose to set aside a portion of their estate to create a fund that will support the Charlevoix Area Humane Society annually.  The remainder of the estate gift will enrich the Community Endowment, which will help the Community Foundation meet needs and advance opportunities in Charlevoix County for years to come. The comfort they received by preplanning helped Chuck through the unexpected loss of Trudy in 2019. Because they planned ahead, Chuck can rest assured that Trudy’s wishes will be carried out, along with his own, after he is gone.

Chuck and Trudy moved to this area when they were in their twenties. They, like many others, built a good life here, one they felt privileged to have. The love that Trudy had, and that Chuck still has, for their little place of peace and quiet nestled in the woods not far from Lake Michigan is the reason they chose to support their community through C3F.  The Centers understood that "we can't predict the future, but we can anticipate it: as times change, this gift will respond."