Nancy and Tom Drake

Nancy and Tom Drake think of themselves as ordinary people who worked hard, avoided debt, saved consistently and regularly gave and volunteered. They credit those habits to their parents and grandparents.

The Drakes met and married in Indiana. After their first child was born, Mrs. Drake opted to stay at home. Mr. Drake’s business took them to Plano, where the family quickly became active in their church and other community groups.

When Mr. Drake began contemplating his transition to retirement, the couple realized that the sale of his business would generate enough profit to leave something to their children and to donate to the causes they support.

The Drakes, now in their early 60s reviewed their estate plan. They notified The Dallas Foundation of their intent to open a donor-advised fund. They wanted to support agencies that respond to social problems and improve lives. Though new to the Foundation, Mr. Drake already has served on an advisory committee researching civic engagement among older adults.

“We are delighted that the Foundation is taking such an active part in researching and providing meaningful ways for seniors to be engaged in the community,” Mrs. Drake said.