Planned Giving Spotlight: Nancy Stefani

As a well versed philanthropist,­­ Nancy Stefani knows the impacting a planned gift can have on an organization.

“Planned giving is exactly what is says, it’s planning your giving for the future of an organization,” said Nancy.

“It’s through bequests and other planned gifts that charitable organizations can survive.”

Nancy has a planned gift with MercyOne Des Moines Foundation because of her deep connection with MercyOne Central Iowa. She explains MercyOne has always been her and her family’s hospital of choice. She is grateful to be in a position where she can give back generously to the place that has cared for her and her family.

When it comes to charitable giving, Nancy challenges others to examine their own giving priorities to ensure their gift is making the greatest impact.

“What I want people to understand when thinking about their own charitable giving is to really look at the organizations they want to support and pick no more than six or seven of them,” said Nancy. “That way when they support them they can support them significantly,” said Nancy.

Planned giving allows individuals to leave their mark and make a transformational impact on an organization.

“When planned gifts mature they are usually sizable, major gifts,” said Nancy. “We know that every gift is important but we also know that larger gifts have a bigger impact.”

In addition to Nancy’s financial generosity, she also has given her time and leadership to MercyOne by serving on the MercyOne Des Moines Auxiliary Board of Directors for several years and as Board Chair in 2012.

“I still feel closely connected to the MercyOne Des Moines Auxiliary,” said Nancy. “I like what the Auxiliary stands for because what they do is simply help other affiliates of MercyOne Central Iowa.”

Each year, proceeds made through Auxiliary-managed operations are combined with money raised through memberships and other events which are then reinvested back into MercyOne Central Iowa. To date, the Auxiliary has contributed more than $10 million to various patient care programs and services, most recently supporting the creation of the Ronald McDonald House at MercyOne Children’s Hospital.

“I am always elated to hear when the Auxiliary has played a part in helping MercyOne Central Iowa take another step forward,” said Nancy. “It’s a great feeling to see they are continuing to reinvest in MercyOne’s mission.”

Nancy is leaving her legacy at MercyOne Central Iowa through her generosity and leadership. She shared when it comes to giving, she finds inspiration in the words of fellow philanthropist, Maddie Levitt.

“I always enjoyed what Maddie said, ‘It’s always easier to give than to receive because that way you don’t have to write any thank yous,’” said Nancy.

For more information on making a planned gift please contact MercyOne Des Moines Foundation Vice President of Philanthropy, Joan Bindel at JBindel@mercydesmoines.org or 515-643-8020.