Giving is so fulfilling (Milt and Judi)
[Milt] Most of what we have and much of who we are is because of the philanthropy of others. So, we have always had a huge internalized obligation to give back. And I would say in retirement, it's probably the most fulfilling aspect of our lives.
[Judi] Earlier in our careers when we had more income, we were able to put more money into Schwab Charitable, and now we're able to reap the benefits of that in our giving.
[Milt] We did an accounting a few months ago on what we've put in, what we've spent, and what we have left. And both the performance of the portfolio of our charitable fund and the statements help remind us that we can give, and give more.
[Judi] One thing that I really like and appreciate is that Schwab Charitable has a variety of fund choices to invest the money that we have in the donor advised fund. And that can be adjusted at any time. It makes it very easy and it helps us to think about how our money is working.
[Milt] It allows us to be good stewards of the resource.
[Judi] It also simplifies the decision to give, in that, we've put the money there years ago. And we don't have to think about "Well, can we spare this from our living expenses?" It's there, and it's ready. That makes it really easy.
[Milt] We often say that some of the most meaningful gifts we've made, are the smallest in dollar amount. So I think one lesson we've learned is that the dollars matter, but they aren't always indicative of the value of the gift.