‘Spend, Save, Share’
Mary Pat and Michael Ament take a unique approach to instilling the ethic of giving back in the next generation.
Giving to charity is second nature to Dubuque residents Michael and Mary Pat Ament. In setting aside a portion of their assets each year to donate, they know that the causes they care about will always be supported.
“Years ago, at our parish, one of the members of the congregation introduced tithing to us,” Michael says. “It’s, basically, to give 10 percent – 5 to the church and 5 to other charities. He told us that once you start doing it, you won't miss it. We found this to be true.”
Years later, that conversation with a fellow parishioner inspired the Aments to develop an estate plan and designate a portion of their assets to be donated to funds hosted by the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque after they pass.
They also started working to instill that ethic of giving back in their grandchildren. Knowing that their adult children are providing the grandchildren with everything they need to be happy and thrive, Michael and Mary Pat decided to do something a little different with their holiday gifts.
When the grandchildren were younger, the Aments would make donations to charity in the children’s names – in addition to their wrapped presents. Now that the kids are older, “Nana” and “Bapa” have added a layer of responsibility to the charitable portion of the gifts.
“They get a letter and three envelopes: You spend some, you save some, and then you share some,” Mary Pat says. “Now, that’s just what Christmas is.”
The Aments and their adult children also understand the importance of modeling philanthropic behavior. Seeing their older family members volunteering and making charitable gifts has left an impression on the grandchildren, who range in age from tween to young adult. They give their time, talent and treasure to support causes in their communities, such as children’s health care, youth with special needs, and animal rescue.
Just as Michael and Mary Pat were inspired to give back by their love for their Dubuque community, they want future generations to be driven by a similar love for their neighbors and the places they call home.
“I hope they carry forward a kind heart and generous spirit and do things for others,” Mary Pat says. “And I hope they remember that giving was modeled for them.”
