In fact, for years the couple has been part of the Summit Society, donors whose annual gift is $500 or more. They says they feel their donation is an investment in the community.
“When we find an organization that we think is doing a good job, we both feel we should give more than just a token; we want to be able to help make a real difference,” said Barry.
He noted that they do not restrict their gift to specific programs, trusting that UWNA will respond to the ever-changing needs of residents in Coconino, Navajo and Apache counties in the best way possible.
“The priorities for communities change over the years,” he said. “We were both in administrative roles long enough to understand the need to have flexibility.”
In addition to their financial support, Barry and Susanna have also given their time. They are past Summit Society campaign chairs and for several years Susanna was on the UWNA Board of Directors.
“I had the opportunity to see the operation from the inside and the integrity with which it operates,” said Maxwell. “It never occurred to us that once we retired, we would stop our commitment because it’s a commitment to the community.”
She added that their confidence in the positive impact of UWNA in the community led them to include UWNA in their estate planning. (For more information about planned giving, please see the article below.)
Many thanks to retirees like Barry and Susanna who are making long-term commitments to Step Up for Our Community through their support of United Way.
