Zientara’s Gift Annuity Provides Income for Life and a Future Gift

Joe Zientara was a non-traditional student at Rosary College in the early 1990s. A graduate of Roosevelt University, Joe attended Catholic schools leading up to college—so he was attracted to Rosary and began taking a few classes for personal enjoyment. Finding the college to be a welcoming community infused with the Dominican Caritas et Veritas ethos, he pursued his MBA while working full-time in the food distribution industry. He received his degree in 1995.

Joe regularly supported the Dominican Fund and became a member of the President’s Circle ($1,000+ gifts) in 2011—around the time he first spoke with a Dominican planned giving professional about a bequest. After visiting the planned giving website, he began to explore the benefits of establishing a charitable gift annuity (CGA) and found them to be compelling. With an investment of $10,000, Joe became an official member of the Mazzuchelli Heritage Society. He receives regular payments from the CGA that will continue for the rest of his life.

When asked why he decided to support Dominican, he said, “It is satisfying to be part of an enterprise that cherishes Catholic values. From an estate-planning perspective, I am delighted to receive quarterly payments for life through this giving vehicle.” Since Joe used appreciated securities to fund the CGA, he avoided capital-gain taxes. He adds, “The university provided several illustrations to show me the tax implications of this type of gift.”

Joe’s philanthropic motivation is informed by his faith: “I hope that my gift will perpetuate the love, kindness, and compassion of Christ through Dominican University.”

For more information on how to plan for your future with a charitable gift annuity, call (708) 524-6303.