The 94-year-old South County resident loved animals, so much so
that left she left the bulk of her multi-million dollar estate
– as much as $10 million – to increase the quality of their
lives.
In leaving $10 million, woman left a message of hope
Bennetta Schramm left a message.
The 94-year-old South County resident loved animals, so much so that left she left the bulk of her multi-million dollar estate – as much as $10 million – to increase the quality of their lives. The Silicon Valley Community Foundation will handle and distribute the gift.
During her life, Schramm donated more than $200,000 to the St. Francis of Assisi Animal Rescue and their low-cost spay and neuter clinic in San Martin. Schramm’s estate planning lawyer, Richard Kinyon, told reporter Sara Suddes that there’s a “reasonable likelihood that a substantial portion of her estate will end up benefiting one or more charities in South County but it isn’t mandated. The foundation has the final say.” Schramm’s message: Give.
Giving includes volunteering as well as donating money
Now, obviously we each can’t give $200,000, to say nothing of $10 million. But giving does not mandate cash nor preclude volunteering. Should you have the wherewithal, donate money to local nonprofits that do so much good work throughout the year. Although the needs are magnified during the holidays, it is something that can be done all year. But it’s not just money that is needed. Many local nonprofits need help in terms of volunteers.
Dozens of local nonprofits need help
This year, the Leadership Morgan Hill class created an organization that brings together agencies and those looking to help. Go to www.volunteermorganhill.org, where you can view a list of more than 100 local nonprofits and sign up to volunteer. From the American Association of University Women, to Community Solutions, to the El Toro Youth Center, to the South Valley Symphony, to the Teachers Aid Coalition, they are all in need of help.
No matter what separates people, helping those in need is what brings people together. And isn’t that the Christmas spirit that should be on display 365 days a year? Get involved and make Morgan Hill a place where everyone can say they are proud to live.
