Generations of Generosity

Generosity had always been part of Laura’s childhood. For Rich, it was a brand-new paradigm.

“It was not something I really thought about before marriage,” Rich remembers. “When we got married, Laura and I began the conversation about regular and intentional giving.”

Like all couples, finding a shared groove – especially when it comes to giving – has required patience, prayer and countless conversations. Giving is a journey.

“I mean, I can’t say we didn’t struggle,” says Rich.

Laura says there is one shared belief that has driven their charitable mindset.

“I remember learning that ‘God owns it all,’” says Laura. “We can give because we want to help people or because it feels good. It’s a whole different thing when you realize this was never ours in the first place.”

“Hearing that for the first time was like a lightbulb going on,” she continues. “It changed the trajectory of how we handle everything. We want to put it all to good use. We want to be responsible.”

“Accumulation is not the goal,” adds Rich. “It’s become more about wealth for God’s Kingdom.”

Rich and Laura have a documented plan to make sure their God-given resources continue to be used wisely, well beyond their lifetimes. Their plan includes giving from their wills to support their favorite ministries.

“I’m a planner by nature,” explains Laura. “I want to make sure everything is in place, that it’s all going to be taken care of. Having our plan in place has given us peace.”

“It’s a good feeling,” adds Rich, “to know that you are partnering with ministries that are doing meaningful work.”

Together, Rich and Laura are building a legacy that they pray will be passed on to their children and grandchildren.

“It has to be intentional,” says Laura. “We want to create generations of generosity.”