United Way of Berks County
Planned Giving
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Creating Change Through Family Philanthropy
As a lifelong resident of Berks County, Terry McGlinn understands the importance of improving the quality of life in his community.
As an outgrowth of their desire to strengthen the Berks County community, members of the McGlinn family guide their philanthropic efforts through a family foundation which focuses on the betterment of the county both today and for the next generation. In 1992, the family established the Colonial Oaks Foundation focusing on community involvement. The family's motto, "we give where we live," frames the foundation's funding of programs. Family members serve as its board of directors while Kristin McGlinn, Executive Director, evaluates and oversees the funding requests.
By supporting work with at-risk youth, education, Catholic initiatives, and health and human service organizations, the family strives to help those less fortunate in achieving greater self-sufficiency and improved health and well-being.
"We hope through the funding efforts and work of our family foundation, the people of our community will have a better quality of life. In turn, we believe those who are helped will strive to help others—making Reading and Berks County a better place to live," Terry says.
By creating a family foundation, the McGlinn family has noted several benefits. "The foundation allows the entire family to work toward a common purpose in improving the community, as well as teaches the children through example and instills the importance of becoming involved," Kristin shares.
Teens and elementary-aged family members are involved in Colonial Oaks' efforts. Through volunteering, visiting nonprofit agencies with the foundation's board of directors and participating in several hands-on efforts, the next generation is learning philanthropy.
"As a family, we hope that our example inspires those that follow to be active in making this community a better place for many generations," Terry states.
United Way and the Colonial Oaks Foundation share a mutual vision and commitment to strengthening Berks County. United Way is grateful to the foundation for its ongoing generous support to the annual campaign.
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