A Donor for Whom Philanthropy is Second Nature

Sequoias San Francisco resident Shirley Costello knows the value of giving back to her community. For more than 35 years, Shirley has served as the Administration Officer for the Herbst Foundation, which provides capital funds for education, health, social services, and cultural institutions throughout San Francisco. The scope of the Foundation's support has provided Shirley with the opportunity to be involved in furthering some of the city's most meaningful programs and services.

After Shirley's husband passed away some years ago, she looked closely at her finances. In addition to assessing her future personal and financial needs, she also considered her philanthropic goals. As part of her overall planning Shirley decided to name The Sequoias San Francisco in her will. When she learned about the Tomorrow Fund through Senior Services for Northern California, she felt inspired to support the cause. "I like the idea of helping people who can no longer afford their housing and living expenses," Shirley recalls.

Shirley decided to make a bequest to the Tomorrow Fund because she could designate a specific amount or percentage of her estate to a cause she believes in. Bequests like Shirley's cost donors nothing during their lives and can even be changed in response to life circumstances. Thanks to Shirley's thoughtfully planned gift to the Tomorrow Fund, any resident of The Sequoias who finds that their resources are no longer adequate to meet their living expenses, can obtain additional financial support.

The knowledge that one need not worry about the future because of the assistance available, gives Shirley the same sense of security that she intends others to have because of her gift. A devoted Chicago Cubs fan, Shirley-together with her aptly-named feline companion, Cubby Cat-finds life at The Sequoias San Francisco secure, enriching and enjoyable. "I have really enjoyed living at the Sequoias," she says. "The choice was a good one."

Thank you, Shirley, for making a gift from the heart to benefit fellow Sequoias residents in their times of need!