SHEREE SAVAR

Sheree Savar has been a proud Lion of Judah for nearly 15 years. A Jewish community leader, she has served many roles, most notably as President of the Women's Philanthropy Board and Chair of the Ethiopian Israeli Initiative. "Before getting involved with Federation, I had a void in my life… I was focused on my world. Through my Federation experiences, I have seen and now understand that community is possible only when the 'Me' becomes 'We.' Judaism is about coming together in action… the way we live our lives and how we contribute to bring holiness to the world."

Ten years ago, Sheree took the next step in her philanthropic journey and decided to perpetuate her annual Lion of Judah gift by naming Federation as a beneficiary of her retirement plan. "From our tradition we learn that, 'You are not obliged to complete the work, but neither are you free to desist from it.' Becoming a Forever Lion ensures that I can continue to be there for my community beyond my lifetime for generations to come," said Sheree.

As time went on, she wanted to make an even larger legacy commitment but was concerned about providing for her heirs. She had also reached the age where she began taking taxable required minimum distributions (RMDs) from her IRA.

Andrew Wolf, Foundation Board Trustee and past Chair of The Foundation’s Professional Advisors Council, found an appropriate solution. The Charitable IRA Rollover, combined with Federation’s Special Legacy Match Life Insurance Program, which shares the cost of insurance premiums with the donor, allowed Sheree to more than triple her original legacy commitment, while offsetting her taxable RMDs for three years.

"The Charitable IRA Rollover is an amazing tool and a great way to donate for those eligible," said Andrew. "And, when combined with Federation’s Life Insurance Program, it produces exceptional results at surprising ages to create value for our donors and community," he added.

"I never imagined it possible to triple my legacy gift in this way. Federation handled everything and it couldn't have been easier," said Sheree.

A veteran of many overseas missions, including Israel and most notably Ethiopia, Sheree has seen firsthand the needs of our people and the Federation system that is in place to meet those needs. "As a Lion of Judah and Forever Lion, I am, and will always be, enveloped in a community of goodness; this holy work fills my heart."

To read other donor stories, check out our Book of Life.