Geoff Scammell
The gifts of giving and receiving

When Geoff Scammell retired after a successful 34-year career at AAA's San Francisco regional office, he and his partner were ready to enjoy a vibrant, full life as they aged. After decades of home ownership, the couple decided to sell their residence and move to The Sequoias San Francisco (SSF) in 1997. Not only was SSF just minutes away from their favorite places in the city, it also offered them a safety net of continuing care services.

After several years at the Sequoias and learning of the tax advantages of using a Charitable Remainder Trust with Senior Services for Northern California, Geoff sold an apartment building he owned. Through a Charitable Remainder Trust, Geoff could make a significant philanthropic gift to The Sequoias San Francisco, receive income for life, and save on the capital gain taxes after the sale of the apartment building.

The decision to move to SSF turned out to be a wise one. When Geoff's partner needed memory care support, the couple received personalized care at The Sequoias Portola Valley, the only Sequoia Living community with a Memory Care wing at the time. To express his gratitude for the care his partner received, Geoff provided a specific bequest in his will to support the continuum of care at SSF and created an endowment through his Charitable Remainder Trust that provides ongoing care for SSF's gardens and grounds.

Since his partner passed away, Geoff has become even more involved with the community at The Sequoias San Francisco. He has served on numerous resident committees and gives back to the community through both his voluntary service and financial support. Just as The Sequoias made a difference in his life, Geoff is using his talent and generosity to make a difference in the lives of others.