Catherine M. Kornas

A donor-advised fund allows a grandmother to give back to the community while providing a special gift for her grandchildren

Catherine M. Kornas spent most of her 104 years of life in and around the New Britain area, devoting herself to her family.

"For someone who traveled very little," remembers her grandson, David Rosinksi, of Hartford, "I was always impressed by her worldly view and knowledge of current events, even in the last days of her life."

Catherine was concerned about the plight of others less fortunate than herself, but coming from modest means, she wasn't able to help others financially during her lifetime.  Instead she concentrated her generosity on her family, doting on them with love and an unending sense of humor.

"It wasn't until I started helping Gram with her estate planning that we realized she would have the means to give back to her community," said David.

Catherine was thrilled.  Initially, she identified a variety of charities to which she wanted to disburse some of her estate posthumously.  There was a better idea.  David knew that a fund at the Hartford Foundation would serve the community in perpetuity, and would honor the life of his grandmother at the same time.

Pleased with his suggestion, Catherine created a provision for the Catherine M. Kornas Fund, a donor-advised fund at the Hartford Foundation, funded with a bequest from her estate, and named David as fund advisor.

David – along with his brother, Jon Rosinski, and their cousin, Katherine Ryan, both of Kensington – will initially focus on basic human needs and helping children when recommending grants from the fund.  They also plan to grow the fund by involving friends and family.

"This fund leaves a meaningful legacy," said David.  "Not only does it fulfill Gram's charitable wishes, it also involves her family, allowing us to participate philanthropically and carry on her generosity."