At Adoption Network Cleveland, we know that some of the most meaningful gifts are those that look toward the future. Through thoughtful gift planning, you can create a lasting impact that continues long after your lifetime while also supporting your financial goals today.
We are especially grateful to long-time generous donors Murray and Susan Van Epp, who recently established a Charitable Gift Annuity for Adoption Network Cleveland as part of their legacy planning. Years ago, they turned to Adoption Network Cleveland for help in searching for their relinquished daughter. With the support of our Search and Reunion services, they were able to reconnect—and have now been in reunion with her for over 30 years. Long-time members might remember Murray and Sue who were regulars at the Rocky River General Support and Discussion Meetings in the 1990s.
“Money is not enough to ever repay Adoption Network for what they have provided in our life, but we can try,” Murray shared.
Their story is a testament to the life-changing power of connection, and their decision to give back helps ensure others will have the same opportunity. You can hear more about their journey and why they support Adoption Network Cleveland here: One Birth Family's Journey | A Story of Support, Search Assistance, and Reunion.
What Is a Charitable Gift Annuity?
A Charitable Gift Annuity (CGA) is a simple yet powerful way to make a lasting philanthropic impact while securing lifetime income for yourself or you and a loved one. It’s an agreement between you and a nonprofit organization, such as Adoption Network Cleveland, in which you make a charitable contribution, and, in return, receive regular payments for life.
If you are 70½ or older, you can make a one-time election of up to $54,000 to fund a CGA, offering a new and tax-efficient way to give.
Benefits of a Charitable Gift Annuity*:
- Income stream for the rest of your life
- Immediate (partial) tax deduction, based on your life expectancy and the anticipated income stream
- Potential for a portion of the income stream to be tax-free
- Possibility of donating many types of assets: cash, securities, plus personal property
- Reduced or eliminated capital gains tax liability for gifts of appreciated securities and personal property
- Supporting an organization you care about
After your lifetime, the remaining value of your gift will be directed to support Adoption Network Cleveland in a way that aligns with your philanthropic goals. Depending on how your gift is structured, this may include support through an endowment or a designated fund managed by a charitable foundation. We are happy to connect you with the appropriate resources to explore your options.
Join our Legacy Circle
By making a planned gift—such as a charitable gift annuity, bequest, or retirement asset designation—you can join our Legacy Circle, a special group of supporters who have made a lasting commitment to Adoption Network Cleveland.
Legacy Circle members include:
- Linda Bellini & Terrence Evans
- Kimberley Donato
- Margaret Kacerek
- Dottie Klemm
- Betsie Norris
- Murray & Susan Van Epp
If you have made a future commitment to Adoption Network Cleveland and would like to be included on this list, please let us know.
Their collective generosity strengthens the foundation of our organization, ensuring that adoptees, birth parents, adoptive families, and youth in foster care continue to receive the support and advocacy they deserve.
Let’s Talk
Legacy planning is flexible and personal. You choose how your gift will be used—whether it supports our endowment at the Cleveland Foundation, a specific program, or the area of greatest need.
To learn more about establishing a Charitable Gift Annuity or joining our Legacy Circle, contact:
Cheryl Carter
Director of Development & Communications
cheryl.carter@adoptionnetwork.org
(216) 482-2316
Your legacy matters. Let it be one of connection, healing, and continued hope.
