Philanthropy Runs in the Family

Philanthropy has always been a family tradition, no matter the gift size. Giving back is the tapestry my parents spun for me, and in doing so they provided me with a unique gift in their estate plan. They left me an endowment that I could designate to an organization of my choice. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, a leader in science, education, and conservation, was the obvious recipient. I chose to support one of my CLO favorites: BirdSleuth, the award-winning curriculum that connects kids with inquiry-based science through birds. My gift, a multiyear commitment of annual support and endowment principal, gives BirdSleuth a jump start now and then provides perpetual income from a dedicated endowment.

With programs like BirdSleuth, the Lab is inspiring future generations of scientists and advocates for nature. That makes me smile.

Joan Brenchley-Jackson
Winters, Calif.