Legacy: Opened a Donor-Advised Fund with The Foundation in 2001.
Philanthropic interests: Education, medical research, Israel, and the Jewish community.
Inspiration: "I think it's important to give back to the community," says Bill. Cece also feels that through their charity, she is honoring the legacy of her parents, Holocaust survivors who escaped Germany through the efforts of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee and the Jewish Federation.
Foundation involvement: When Bill sold his investment company, he began searching for an alternative to establishing a private foundation to manage his philanthropy. He ultimately discovered The Foundation, and entered into what became a deep relationship with The Foundation. It's a kinship that continues today as a donor, a member of The Foundation's Board of Trustees, and an Investment Committee member.
Continuing education: Over the years, the Feilers have continued to learn about The Foundation's services through its charitable giving seminars. Bill joined The Foundation's Investment Committee to help strengthen its portfolio, and in 2010, he joined The Foundation's Board of Trustees.
Reflections: "There's no downside to having a Donor-Advised Fund," stated Bill "You can still make all the charitable gifs you made before, and you're helping the Jewish community. It makes your life simpler without having to administer your own private foundation." Adds Cece: "You're giving money away and raising money, which is a good thing. I don't know why anyone in our situation would not be part of the Jewish Community Foundation. They make your life much simpler in managing your philanthropy."