Memorial Gifts: Joyfully Given, Gratefully Received
By Bob Wick

Memorial gifts are a meaningful way to practice philanthropy. Munson receives nearly 3,000 memorial gifts annually. All memorial gifts are an important contribution to the mission of Munson Healthcare.

Memorial giving is a time-honored form of philanthropy with an additional element that is very satisfying. A gift made in memory of a loved one or a friend allows us to honor the life of someone we care about by helping to make the lives of others better. Offering a lasting and meaningful tribute often brings comfort and solace in a time of grief.

Sharon Wilkins, who coordinates memorial gifts at the Foundation, offered her own experience as an example. “When my mother passed away it meant so much to us to know that gifts to the Women’s Cancer Fund in her name would help cancer patients with everyday things. Paying a light bill, buying some groceries, or helping pay for day care for the kids can mean everything to a woman who can’t work because of treatment for cancer. We all felt that Mom would have been so happy with that decision.”

At Munson, the greatest number of memorial gifts are directed to Hospice programs and Munson Hospice House. We also receive gifts each year that reflect the specific interests of those being honored. Dialysis, Pediatrics, Cardiology, Behavioral Health, and Munson Manor — among many others — have all received memorial gifts that have been used to help people.

Memorial gifts are important at Munson. We honor and appreciate the symbol of remembrance these gifts represent. The work that is supported by memorial gifts touches lives in meaningful ways and makes them better.

Memorial gift donors can take great joy in that knowledge.

Robert Wick is a Planned Giving Specialist at Munson Healthcare Regional Foundation. For information on planned giving, call (231) 935-7689. For information on memorial giving, call (231) 935-7913.