Kathy & Ted Parker

The Parkers established a donor-advised fund at the Community Foundation in 2021. They kindly shared their thoughts on giving.

What compelled you to create the Parker Family Fund?

Ted: As an investment advisor, I have a professional interest in donor-advised funds. It’s simple, it saves us taxes, and it allows us to support causes more effectively. We also think it’s important to support the Community Foundation itself. It serves an important purpose.

Kathy: I served on the Foundation’s Grants Committee — that’s how I first got involved. It was fascinating. I got to learn so much about the wonderful network of organizations supporting our community. Ted and I recognize the expertise at the Foundation. They know what we are interested in supporting through our Fund, and they connect us to what the community needs.

What causes are most meaningful to you?

Kathy: I spent two years of my childhood in Puerto Rico where I didn’t speak Spanish. Now I’m very sympathetic to people who are new to a community. Immigrant causes are very important to me. And we believe strongly in treating people decently and giving them opportunities. We’ve been blessed with privilege, and we know not everyone starts in the same place.

Ted: Yes, we are fortunate to be able to “pay it forward.” I really enjoy the environmental assets we have in the area; it’s a beautiful place with many opportunities for recreation. We benefit from this preserved land, and stewarding nature is something we both support.

What have you learned through your philanthropy?

Ted: As I work with people on their finances, charitable giving often comes up. Some of my clients are charitably inclined — it’s a big part of their lives. Their generosity is so moving, and they’re happy, contented people. They’re a big inspiration for me.

Kathy: We enjoy being generous now, rather than waiting until after we’re gone. It’s nice to see the impact of our giving and to be able to celebrate with the organizations and people who are benefiting now