Summer 2026

In Our Hearts

A Planned Giving Newsletter from the Christian Brothers of the Midwest

 

Forging Our Common Future, Tax-Free

Dear Lasallian Family,

 

During these days of summer, many of us find time to reflect on the blessings of our lives, our families, and the values that guide us. As Lasallian alumni and friends, we are uniquely called together in association to serve, empower, and forge a common future for the next generation of students.

 

If you are 70½ or older, you have a powerful, tax-wise, opportunity to live out this shared ministry today through your traditional IRA. By making a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD), you can transfer funds directly from your IRA to Christian Brothers of the Midwest.

 

Why consider an IRA gift this summer?

  • It is tax-free: The distribution comes directly to us, meaning you pay zero income tax on the transfer.
  • It satisfies requirements: If you are 73 or older, a QCD counts toward your annual Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).
  • It directly empowers students: Your gift immediately supports our preferential commitment to the poor, ensuring faith-filled, quality education remains accessible to all.
     

Beating the end-of-year rush by arranging your IRA gift this summer is a beautiful, peaceful way to ensure your legacy of faith and zeal continues to shine brightly.

Learn More 

An Option for Every Legacy

Don’t have a traditional IRA? You can still make a profound impact. This summer, consider a Beneficiary Designation. By naming Christian Brothers of the Midwest as a beneficiary of your life insurance policy, bank account, or 401(k), you can secure our educational mission without altering your current lifestyle or will.

How to Make a Tax-Free IRA Gift This Summer

Please share these exact details with your IRA custodian or financial advisor to execute your Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD):

 

  • Direct Transfer: The gift must move directly from your IRA account to Christian Brothers of the Midwest. Do not withdraw the funds to your personal account first.
  • Payee Information: Request that the check be made payable exactly to:
    Christian Brothers of the Midwest
  • Mailing Address: Instruct your custodian to mail the check to:

    Christian Brothers of the MIdwest
    Attn: Anthony C. Chimera, MBA
     7650 S. County Line Rd
    Burr Ridge, IL 60527

  • Identify Your Gift: Ask your advisor to include your name and address on the check stub or accompanying letter so we can properly acknowledge your generosity.

Unlocking Your True Legacy: What Your Will Doesn’t Say

When most people think of estate planning, they envision a "Last Will and Testament." But here is the secret: some of your most valuable assets will never touch your will.

Read More 

August is Make-a-Will Month

This summer, consider making a gift in your will to the Christian Brothers of the Midwest. August is National Make-a-Will Month, an annual observance that encourages adults to take control of important decisions that impact all people, places, and organizations close to their hearts.

 

By including the Chrisitan Brothers of the Midwest in your will, also known as a charitable bequest, you help continue to change the course of many lives. You can give a dollar amount, specific items, or designate a percentage of your estate. A bequest is incredibly flexible—it costs nothing today, and it can be easily adjusted at any time if your circumstances change during your lifetime.

 

If you already have a will, you can add a gift to the Chrisitan Brothers of the Midwest with a simple amendment. A small line in your will can have a lifetime of impact.

 

Join the Parmenie Heritage Guild

 

The Christian Brothers of the Midwest Parmenie Heritage Guild recognizes, honors, and celebrates extraordinary individuals who remember the Christian Brothers and our Lasallian Mission in their estate or financial plans. Their visionary commitment builds on the Brothers’ legacy of a human and Christian education for all.

 

Click here to view a list of these generous and thoughtful donors.

To request more information about various gift types and other creative ways to create your legacy, complete this form.

This publication is solely for educational purposes. The information contained is not meant to be used as legal or financial advice. Please consult your attorney for legal matters or your financial advisor regarding tax and accounting related matters.

Copyright © 2026 Christian Brothers of the Midwest, All rights reserved.

I'm Here to Help

Anthony C. Chimera, MBA
Director of Development
630.323.3725 Ext: 211
achimera@cbmidwest.org