Larry Shepp, chair of the Foundation’s Planned Giving Committee, knows many heartwarming tales about ways Alta Bates Summit Medical Center have touched peoples’ lives and how they’ve given back in return. “One individual donated his estate because he was born premature, years ago, and Alta Bates Summit saved his life,” Shepp says. “His family was poor and the hospital paid for his neonatal intensive care. That was just something he never forgot.”

Certainly, people give to do good in the world but planned giving can also benefit the donor, adds Shepp. “By partnering with a charity,” he explains, “people can eliminate capital gains taxes and generate significant tax deductions even while they’re alive, which means they’ll have more money to pass along to their heirs.” If you’re interested in learning more about planned giving, contact the Foundation at (510) 204-1667.