Bill Williamson: “I Asked Myself, What Really Matters To Me?”
When we interviewed Bill Williamson about the estate commitment he recently documented with the Food Bank, he told us about his life story, what has inspired his generosity and how he views planned giving as a deep partnership.
Growing up in Augusta, Maine, Bill first learned about philanthropy when, through his single mother’s support and determination, he was given educational opportunities through scholarships. Ever since, Bill has always felt the tug of giving back, working to help nonprofits raise money as a staff member and, later, as a volunteer, including as a member of the Food Bank’s board of directors. When it comes to his own philanthropy, Bill supports many organizations, but in the last couple of years asked himself what causes felt the most important. After doing that, he chose three to include in his estate, including Good Shepherd Food Bank.
According to Bill, “The word is partnership. When I decided to make a planned gift, it was not only a great way to do something meaningful that I wouldn’t be able to do in my lifetime, but a way to honor the organizations most meaningful to me. Now that I’ve done it, it makes me feel even more connected and committed to the Food Bank. I didn’t want this gift to be a surprise because I plan to revisit my plans periodically to tweak and increase this gift over time as the relationship continues to build.”
Deepen Your Connection
There are many ways you can make a lasting impact on Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine through a planned gift. Contact Erin Peck Yarema at (207) 344-1248 or eyarema@gsfb.org to learn more, or to notify us of your gift.