Donor Profile: Muriel and William Hackney
Why do you give to Leader Dogs for the Blind?
First of all, I love animals; but our gifts, including our Charitable Gift Annuities, are in memory of my first husband, Jack T. Bronkie. In 1953, Jack founded and was the President of a Rotary Club in Williamsville, New York. Jack started the club after visiting the guide dog school in New Jersey. He was so very impressed with the work being done at the school. Before Jack’s death, he was in an automobile accident and lost his sight. When my current husband, William, and I lived in East Lake, Florida, we attended a small church. On Sundays there were several puppy raisers that brought their puppies to church and we fell in love with each one. There was also a judge that attended the church with his guide dog, Radar. Every Sunday they sat in the first row and we always had to walk around them when it was time for communion. Radar would not move. It was so funny. Radar never stood up when we sang songs, but he knew exactly when church was over! He would jump up right away. It was so cute and everybody loved Radar. When we would visit with the judge, Radar would stand directly in front of him!
Why did you choose to have a Charitable Gift Annuity with Leader Dogs for the Blind?
Charitable Gift Annuities are a win-win for the individual and Leader Dog. We were able to make a gift, receive a tax deduction, and receive an annual annuity payment, which is very nice.
Would you recommend other people to have a Charitable Gift Annuity?
Oh, yes. If somebody is going to donate to Leader Dogs for the Blind, and the donation is $10,000 or more, and you are over 65, it is a very advantageous arrangement.
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