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Tom’s Story
Transformed by His Volunteer Experience, Architect Tom Brutting Designs a Legacy to Support People in Need
Tom Brutting says his tenure on the Board and involvement at St. Anthony’s has been transformative. He explains that he sees the organization as a very caring, loving place that brings dignity and quality of life to disadvantaged people, and especially to those most in need. As Tom puts it, “The people who are at the lowest rung of society, and who need the most, are being supplied and supported in many ways, through many programs, to bring them a level of service and quality they otherwise wouldn’t have.”
In addition, Tom thinks that volunteering at St. Anthony’s has been as illuminating for him as it has been for the people St. Anthony’s serves. He recounts coming to St. Anthony’s with his own prejudices about homelessness and people in need. According to Tom, “After spending time in the dining room and sitting down with people and talking with them, that dispelled every bit of prejudice I ever had because that’s not who these people are. Essentially, they are people who may have full-time jobs, many with families, and just can’t make ends meet at the end of the day, or are elderly or veterans or any array of circumstances that with the expense of living (especially in the Bay Area) they can’t survive on their own.”
To support St. Anthony’s work in the future, Tom has included St. Anthony Foundation is his will. He says his experience at St. Anthony’s reminds him that anyone could find themselves in need of help one day. “I think what came home to me is that I’m a professional, I’m an architect, I’m doing well in life but, tomorrow, I may not be. I very well could be on that line for the dining room with everyone. I’m really no different,” he said.
When asked what he would like readers to take away from this article, Tom said, “I would say to experience St. Anthony’s firsthand. To go down and volunteer, just get your feet wet, visit, and see what it’s all about. Because everyone I’ve known, who has come in contact with St. Anthony’s, it has stayed with them. They’ve been so impressed and moved by the experience of being there, that it really does change your life forever.”
The St. Anthony’s Legacy Circle recognizes donors who sustain our mission to feed, heal, shelter, clothe, and life the spirits of those in need. By making St. Anthony’s part of their charitable legacy, Legacy Circle members provide hope to those who will need it most.
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as financial, legal, or tax advice. St. Anthony’s recommends you consult with qualified, independent professionals before making decisions about your estate plans
