Planned Giving Insights and Information

That A-ha! Moment - Why Use a Consultant?

I am a big proponent of David Allen’s Getting Things Done (GTD) approach to life. I have been following its precepts for more than a decade. At times, I feel like I could teach a seminar on his work-life management system! That’s why the idea of talking to one of the experts at GTD about a small problem I was having seemed absurd. Why use a consultant on a topic where I already know the answers? I discovered that in fact, talking to an expert about a matter in which I was already proficient was worthwhile both in time and money. Here’s why: What can experts provide?

PG Calc's Gary Pforzheimer "Ignites" Crowd at NCPP

Lights! Camera! Action! I got to have more fun than usual at this year's National Conference for Philanthropic Planning (NCPP). The organizers offered something a little different for attendees on Thursday morning. It was a session that provided content, but in a style that broke from the standard speeches, breakout sessions and networking. I was one of the brave volunteers who presented? performed? in what is called the "Ignite" format (similar to Ted talks). Each talk was five minutes long, accompanied by exactly 20 slides displayed for exactly 15 seconds each. The format is designed to generate enthusiasm in presenter and audience alike, and the session drew a banner crowd. I chose to cover the entire 30-odd year history of modern planned giving in five minutes. No biggie, right? I'm happy to report I made it through without getting too far ahead of or behind on my slide count. The other presentations were great, too. I look forward to seeing the Ignite session next year!

Bankruptcy and Gift Annuities: “Keep Calm and Carry On”

On October 2nd, 2013, the Chronicle of Philanthropy reported The New York City Opera was entering Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and would “wind down” its operations after 70 years. The news prompted anxious calls from charities and gift annuitants to us here at PG Calc. They all had the same concern: what happens to gift annuitants when a charity goes into bankruptcy? The good news is that such circumstances have been incredibly rare. Based on the few occasions where it has occurred, it seems likely that those with annuities issued by the bankrupt organization will be protected. Here are two key factors to understand in addressing questions that may come from your boss or your annuitants and other constituents.