Marnite B. Calder's Estate Plans Benefit Shepherd Center

One of Shepherd Center’s most active and involved Bridge Builders is Marnite Calder, who is serving her second three-year term as Chairman of Shepherd Center’s Advisory Board. Marnite also has held various offices in Shepherd’s Auxiliary, including President in 1996-97.

She established the Marnite B. Calder Animal Assisted Therapy Endowment Fund in 2002 to provide permanent support for Shepherd’s pet therapy program, through which patients gain strength and self-confidence by working with specially-trained dogs. The animals assist with patients’ exercises to improve balance, range of motion and muscle strength.

“From personal experience, I know the healing power offered by an ‘animal therapist’ and feel that humans in all stages of life can benefit physically and emotionally from the unconditional love and calming solace so freely given by our four-legged friends,” Marnite said.

Marnite became a Bridge Builder through her Last Will and Testament, which contains a bequest to a Designated Fund of The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, naming Shepherd Center as one of the primary beneficiaries of the fund.

In explaining her motivation, Marnite said, “I plan to benefit Shepherd Center through my estate because I believe so strongly in the mission of the Center, and I am constantly amazed at its accomplishments and ongoing achievements. Working, as I do, in the world of philanthropy, I am daily aware of outstanding gifts of generosity and compassion offered by human beings for one another. Few, however, can compare with the legacy given to Atlanta, and indeed to the world, by the Shepherd family.

“Their dedication and the dedication of the medical team and staff to restoring the human spirit, to rebuilding lives and restoring hope, is truly unparalleled,” she said. “The genuinely positive atmosphere and ‘can do’ attitude that characterize every facet of Shepherd Center are uniquely remarkable. It is a privilege to make a small contribution towards ensuring the future of this world class institution.”

Shepherd Center is grateful to have dedicated volunteers and donors such as Marnite to support the work of the hospital.

Click here for more information on how you can benefit the Center through your estate and financial planning.