Building a secure future for themselves and for AFSC

Willie Colon and Melissa Stoner are leadership gift officers for AFSC. They assist those interested in making philanthropic gifts to build critical support for AFSC’s work for generations to come. They are also AFSC donors—personally committed to the organization’s work for a more just, peaceful future for all.

Willie first started his journey with AFSC in 1994. He has worked in various capacities over the years, including as director of publications, before joining the fundraising unit in 2017. He also enjoys attending a worship group, reading science fiction, and reengaging with volunteer opportunities.

Willie started a charitable gift annuity to further support AFSC’s mission—while building personal financial security. He appreciates that AFSC strictly screens its investments. “I want to have a decent retirement and have some money coming in,” he says, “but I also want to know that I’m not getting that retirement money from companies involved in building the wall at the border or the walls in Israel and Palestine.”

Melissa has worked with AFSC as a gift officer for the past seven years. She grew up in a Mennonite tradition and has spent her career working for faith-based organizations. “Giving was modeled as I was growing up,” Melissa says. She credits her upbringing with shaping her belief that there is that of God in everyone and in the work for equality and justice.

Like Willie, Melissa appreciates that a gift annuity provides benefits for both the annuitant and the organization. She sees gift annuities as a powerful way for an individual of even modest means to create a legacy of change. “It does, I think, impact AFSC today in a way that it’s building a strong foundation for our work for the future,” she says.

Join Willie and Melissa as a Friend for the Future by making your own legacy gift. Contact Alyssa Chatten at 888-588-2372 or GiftPlanning@afsc.org to learn more.