Carolyn Watson had a thoughtful approach to her philanthropy. Born in Ada, Okla., and a graduate of East Central University, she knew well the challenges individuals living in rural Oklahoma faced and the lack of opportunities available.

The longtime chair and CEO of Shamrock Bancshares wanted to improve the quality of life for residents living in the southern Oklahoma communities where her banks were located. In 1995, Carolyn utilized gifts of appreciated stock to establish the Rural Oklahoma Community Foundation, a permanent endowment fund at the Oklahoma City Community Foundation. Through the endowment, Carolyn created a scholarship program for students as well as grant opportunities for communities, schools and teachers in rural Oklahoma.

Carolyn also included a substantial gift to support the Rural Oklahoma Community Foundation in her will. After her death in 2014, this gift expanded the scholarship and grant programs, allowing them to have a greater impact. As a result of Carolyn's generous gift and thoughtful planning, students in rural Oklahoma communities have been awarded more than $333,000 in scholarships to attend college. In addition, more than $900,000 has been awarded through grants to rural communities, schools and teachers to provide opportunities and improve the quality of life. These programs will continue to make a difference for generations to come, carrying on Carolyn's legacy.

To learn more about how we can help your clients create their own legacy, visit occf.org or contact Joe Carter at [email protected] or 405/606-2914.


A bill recently introduced in Congress proposes to expand the IRA Charitable Rollover to allow individuals age 70 � or older to use their IRA assets to fund Charitable Remainder Trusts and Charitable Gift Annuities. Read more here.


Professional advisors are already talking to their clients about plans for the future such as funding college educations, retirement and even wills and trusts, so why not ask about their charitable giving goals too? Learn how to start the discussion here.



Upcoming Events


Estate Planning 1.5
May 24, 11:30 a.m. -1:15 p.m.
The Sometimes Complicated World of Charitable Giving
@OCCF
CE: 1.5 hours
Registration will close by 5 p.m. May 17 or until capacity is reached.

See the list of remaining 2016 Estate Planning 1.5 dates and topics here.


Contact:
Joe Carter
Director, Donor Development and Planned Giving
[email protected]
405/606-2914