Immediate or Deferred Payment: Charitable Gift Annuities

A Lifelong Commitment to Giving: The Story of Ray and Ellen

Ray and Ellen found the perfect way to give back to The Salvation Army through a Charitable Gift Annuity (CGA).

Ellen's sense of responsibility and generosity began in her childhood. During the tough times of the early 1930s, her father lost his job, and The Salvation Army stepped in with job opportunities. Ellen said, "I remember Dad walking to The Salvation Army to ask if any jobs were available. They asked if he could flip hamburgers, and he said, "You bet. They provided streetcar tokens to work."

Ellen's strong work ethic continued through high school and college, babysitting; later, she worked full-time for the Corps of Engineers. She met Ray through a mutual friend, and they eventually married and founded a successful accounting business. Their hard work allowed them to purchase a farm where they built their home and raised cattle. "God blessed us greatly," Ellen reflected.

With the assistance of The Salvation Army's planned giving associate, Ray and Ellen set up a deferred gift that ensured continuous support for those in need. This charitable gift annuity provided them with guaranteed lifetime income, while The Salvation Army received the remaining balance upon death.

Their legacy lives on through their generous gift to The Salvation Army.

Note: The names in this true story are changed.