Among the many ways to support Tri Delta is through planned giving. Some of our most dedicated members have made the steadfast commitment to remember the Tri Delta Foundation in their will or estate plan, and those who designate the Foundation in this way are recognized as members of our prestigious Heritage Society.
Laura Shapiro Torrey, Florida, grew up in Jacksonville, Florida, where she returned after graduating from the University of Florida. She eventually settled in Ponte Vedra, where, today, she enjoys promoting the beautiful area of northeast Florida as a real estate broker.
She continues to keep in touch with many of her local Tri Delta sisters — including getting together for an annual girls’ weekend with her two former roommates — and is a member of the Jacksonville Alumnae Chapter.
Laura not only believes in the power of lifelong friendships, but she also credits Tri Delta for teaching her the skills to be successful and shaping her into the person she is today. That’s one of the reasons why she decided to become a member of the Heritage Society by donating to the Foundation through planned giving.
Here’s what she shared about the importance of giving back to Tri Delta and leaving a legacy for future generations of sisters:
Why is giving to the Foundation important?
Giving to the Foundation is important in order to continue the great work that the Foundation does in helping its members with financial assistance, scholarships and educational programs.
What encouraged you to become a Foundation donor?
I wanted to become a Foundation donor as a way of giving back to Tri Delta. My four years as a sister at the University of Florida were some of my most memorable and life-shaping experiences. I made great and loyal friends which I am still blessed to have today. I learned teamwork, good organizational skills, an appreciation for the positive impact that comes with volunteer work, to name a few. I think I can honestly say that my sorority experience shaped me into the person I am today. I am thankful, too, for all the fun we had!
What does lifetime membership in Tri Delta mean to you?
It means that I have made a commitment to Tri Delta to help support them for my lifetime. When I was initiated I pledged loyalty and support. Even though you graduate and move on, that promise never goes away. I am proud to have taken this step. It feels good to be able to say I am part of this lifetime giving program.
Why would you encourage other Tri Deltas to consider planned giving?
I think planned giving is very powerful. It supports organizations that are important to you today, even after you are gone. I would really like to encourage my fellow sisters to consider making a place for Tri Delta in their wills and estate planning. It is really easy to do and benefits Tri Deltas of the future! It is my hope that my gift makes a difference to a deserving sister somewhere in her life.
For information on giving to Tri Delta through your will or estate plan, please contact Tawnya Braeutigam at 817.471.1908 or via email at tbraeutigam@trideltaeo.org.