Community

Bill and Sue

What sparked your passion for girls’ education, and why do you believe it is crucial for creating a better future?

Sue was born and raised in Zimbabwe and we both now live in South Africa, so we are especially conscious of the obstacles children and families face in historically under-resourced communities. While there are no easy solutions for such problems, the potential of a meaningful education is a real gamechanger. In South Africa, we have long been supporters of youth charities which seek to provide for those in need. For various social reasons, these have mainly focused on young boys. When we discovered that we could also more actively support girls through Room to Read’s programmes, we recognized an opportunity to meet an important need. We have seen how educated girls are more likely to develop fulfilling lives and act as role models in their communities. That’s why committing a legacy gift to this purpose feels deeply rewarding—not only to support the individual girl, but also her family and broader community.

As longtime supporters, what motivated you to designate an asset in your estate to Room to Read's work?

We were both fortunate to receive good educations and could optimize opportunities available to us to build successful careers. It is now very important that we share our good fortune with others who have not received the same advantages.

Anything else you would like to add? 

We have been supporting Room to Read for 15 years and have throughout found the organization to be incredibly professional, passionate and trustworthy. We hope to support Room to Read throughout the rest of our lives — and, through our legacy gift, after our deaths.