Donor Stories—Flower

Gift Annuity Provides Fixed Income and Support for Community Health System

Frank and Ada Flower were married on June 24, 1950. Ada who is Pennsylvania Dutch, graduated from Moravian College and has worked as a teacher and later as a bookkeeper for a shellfish business in Oyster Bay. Frank graduated from Lehigh University and then earned a Master’s Degree at Rutgers University where he served on the Cooperative Extension faculty for 20+ years before returning to Long Island to work in the shellfish farming business. They are the proud parents of 4 daughters and grandparents of 5 grandchildren.

In 2008 this generous couple funded two charitable gift annuities with Northwell Health. First and foremost they gave because they believe in Northwell Health. As Frank noted, “We get to help others and help ourselves.” Frank and Ada have received services at Glen Cove Hospital. In fact, Frank was born in a wooden structure that he was told served as the Glen Cove Hospital prior to its current location on St. Andrews Lane. Two of Ada & Frank’s daughters were born in Glen Cove Hospital.

A charitable gift annuity is currently their preferred method of philanthropy for several reasons. A charitable gift annuity is a gift that actually provides them with a fixed income (payable quarterly each year) for life. The Flowers were initially attracted to Northwell Health’s high gift annuity rates. Ada commented “It’s a great return, particularly in light of the recent downturn in the market.” Frank and Ada appreciate receiving some tax-free income and getting a charitable income tax deduction. Another factor is their belief that Northwell Health is a stable organization—a key factor in the present economy. Finally, they gain satisfaction in supporting a local organization that benefits their community and the place they (and Frank’s parents) have called home for decades.

The Flowers support a variety of charitable causes with both monetary donations and their time. They have funded other gifts that provide an income stream for life at both of their alma maters. In their spare time, Frank and Ada deliver food for Meals on Wheels and drive people to medical appointments. 

They enjoy reading, going to church, spending time with family and friends, and doing some traveling.