The 25 Estate Documents You Need to Put in One Place

That question contains the reason for J. Randolph Hiller's longtime and generous support of The Children's Institute of Pittsburgh.

For many years, Randy Hiller has made annual gifts to the organization — and most recently, he's arranged a significant bequest.

Randy has long understood the needs of organizations helping kids with disabilities — his mother was one of the founders of St. Peter's Child Development Centers, now The Early Learning Institute. He became aware of the work of The Children's Institute while serving on a board with Jane Greer, whose husband, George, was then Chairman of The Children's Institute's Board of Directors. Randy toured the Squirrel Hill campus and says simply, "I was very impressed." That's when his annual gifts began.

His work as CEO of the family business took much of his time and attention until recently, when he sold the company and retired. Now, he says, there's time for travel, art — and giving back.

His philanthropy is typically unrestricted. He says of The Children's Institute, "Everything they do is worthwhile and interesting, and it's clear that they know how to apportion the resources they have, so I prefer to let them decide how to use what I give."

Why has Randy Hiller included The Children's Institute in his estate planning? He smiles and says, "As they say, you can't take it with you — so do some planning and make sure your intentions will be carried out. Everyone should have a will, and it's easy to include gifts to organizations like The Children's Institute.

"Once you've done it, it's a great feeling. You can relax and enjoy life, knowing you are making a difference in the young lives of others."

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That simple phrase describes the philosophy of two remarkable philanthropists, Charles and Mary Ellen Fischer of Scottdale.

The couple, who met as students at California State Teachers College, taught for many years, Mary Ellen in Peters Township elementary schools, and Charles at Upper St. Clair High School in industrial arts and driver education.

They lived comfortably and saved wisely. Charles remembers learning early about saving, saying, "I did chores for the neighbors, and my mother would let me keep a nickel for spending while banking the rest for my college education."

They retired early when Charles's long-time vision problems worsened. "We wanted to see the country while I still had some vision," he explains. "We had a travel trailer we towed all over, and we found it to be a convenient and economical way to visit every state except Alaska and Hawaii."

Along the way, the couple, who don't have children of their own, discussed the future. "We wanted to help make this a better world, including long after we're gone. That's why we came to like the idea of planned giving," recalls Charles.

While they have contributed generously to The Children's Institute's annual fund, they have also made significant planned gifts—a charitable gift annuity and a bequest. Other recipients of their support include their alma mater, a local library, and children's health care.

"Education, health, and children—that's the future of this country," says Charles. "And we've had fun feeling we're doing something worthwhile with our money."

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