A Gift for the Future

Kristin Gross has dedicated her life to helping others. Now, she’s guaranteed that her contributions will continue to help, even after she’s gone. Gross, Regional Director of the Information Technology Center at Avera McKennan and former Avera McKennan Foundation board member, has made a habit of giving over her 34-year health care career.

For her 15 years at Avera McKennan, Gross has given annually. She even gives Christmas gifts of donations for senior management and staff. Ultimately, though, she wanted to give more. "I believe in the mission of Avera Health and Avera McKennan," Gross said. "I wanted to lend my support to their goals."

Through the Leaders Program, Gross gifted two $25,000 life insurance policies to the Foundation. One is to be used for the Walsh Family Village and the other is earmarked for hospice care. The life insurance policies are paid for over seven years and the proceeds are given to the Foundation when Gross passes away.

The Leaders Program is comprised of a group of visionaries who have chosen to honor Avera as the beneficiary of a deferred giving arrangement. These visionaries have quietly secured financing for the future of health care. The deferred gifts, many in the form of an insurance contract, are an irrevocable gift to Avera.

Gross has already given multiple donations to the Walsh Family Village and the hospice program, including a contribution to the gardens at Dougherty Hospice House. When it comes to providing for Avera’s mission, she believes that philanthropy starts at home.

"We put a lot of emphasis on our mission at Avera McKennan," Gross said. "And we should lead by example, by giving when we can. It’s rewarding, especially when you know the organization. You give to agencies in your community, and you give to your church. At McKennan, you also give to the Foundation because you know you’re supporting a great mission."