The Elaine Pearl Shapiro and Michael Shapiro Charitable Fund

Michael and Elaine Shapiro knew what they wanted to do, for now and for the future. The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut made it possible for them to do it, with the establishment of The Elaine Pearl Shapiro and Michael Shapiro Charitable Fund, a donor-advised fund. Right now, the fund lets the Shapiros support programs that matter to them in New London, a city that they love. Eventually, through their estate planning, this same fund will provide for a mix of charities, both local and national, that they have named.

“You want to do something good with what you’ve worked for,” says Elaine. “Especially, you want to make a positive impact on your community. The need in the community is so great.”

The Shapiros began thinking out the “how’s” and “what’s” of their giving after they attended an annual meeting of the Foundation and then talked with Foundation staff. At first, Elaine notes, she felt that she was in unfamiliar territory—but that feeling didn’t last. The meeting was informative; the staff was helpful. “I took notes,” she says. “I learned questions to ask, and I saw how easily people can get involved.”

After learning about different kinds of funds, she and Michael chose the donor-advised variety, for its convenience and flexibility. Each year they can select from the Community Foundation’s list of giving opportunities or direct funds to causes of their own choice.

They feel comfortable with the Foundation’s knowledge and experience--with its good investment record, its sound management practices, and its thorough understanding of the community and its needs. They like the way they can communicate with the staff, and, if they wish, become more involved. Elaine hopes to serve on a Foundation committee.

They are pleased to leave a lasting legacy. “The fund will give continually, over and over, for years and years. It will grow—grow and help,” Elaine says.

One way to help the whole community, she notes, is to help its young people. This year the Shapiros’ gift will support the Connecticut Teen Peace/New London Youth Organization’s new teen center and the Kente Cultural Center’s launch of a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic chorus, for 9-to-15-year-olds. “Teens need a place to go, to hang out, to be—a place that’s safe,” Elaine says, “and the chorus is such a great idea.” She can’t wait to hear the group perform.

The Shapiros want to give back to a community that has given them so much. When they were growing up, their families summered in New London. “We met at Ocean Beach,” Elaine says, with a big smile. “Then, in 1986, we re-met.” Today, they’re delighted to live where the Thames River meets Long Island Sound.

“We like it here,” says Michael. “It’s where we hang our hats. Our fund is not about the Shapiros; it’s a remembrance of so much we’ve enjoyed here. To do some good—that’s the key.”