Marvin and Marcia Thomas moved to Howard County in 1963. Marvin, who had a graduate degree in library science from the University Michigan, was the first professional librarian in the county. During his tenure as the long-time director of the Howard County Library System, Marvin developed six libraries and oversaw a staff that grew from six to 200. He was rightfully proud of the many accolades that the Howard County Library System earned as one of the highest per capita circulation systems in the nation.
These Columbia pioneers established deep roots here. Marcia was an administrative coordinator at the Oakland Mills Interfaith Center starting in 1977, and in her role was integral in the drafting of some of the governing documents that guide the operation of the Interfaith Center. Marcia was well loved by the clergy, staff and congregants of all the congregations that worshipped at the Interfaith Center. She enjoyed horticulture, traveling with Marvin and entertaining at their home. The couple didn’t have children — Columbia was their baby.
The couple created an endowed donor-advised fund at the Community Foundation in 2000 to support the causes that they cared about the most. Through their fund at the Foundation, the Thomas’ provided funding support for human services, arts, cultural and educational programs and organizations locally. They enjoyed supporting various education-related initiatives (HCLS, Alpha Foundation, Howard Community College, Brightminds) as well as several arts nonprofits (Columbia Festival of the Arts, Chamber Music Maryland, Peabody Institute).
In the spirit of perpetual giving and community service, Marvin and Marcia Thomas left a significant impact on the Howard County community through a thoughtful and generous bequest in their estate plan. Marcia passed late in 2022, and this planned gift will ensure that the legacy of the Thomas Family continues to benefit the community for generations to come as the Foundation administers the proceeds consistent with the purpose of the original fund.
Understanding the Endowed Fund and the Power of a Bequest
An endowed fund is a powerful tool in philanthropy. It allows donors to create a lasting impact by contributing to a fund that is invested over time. The principal amount remains intact, while the earnings are used to support charitable initiatives. This approach ensures that the fund’s value grows, providing a sustainable source of support for the community.
A bequest is a gift made through a donor’s will. It is a testament to the donor’s commitment to leaving a positive impact on the world even after they are gone. Marcia Thomas’s decision to include the endowed fund in her estate plan is a testament to her dedication to the community and her desire to see it thrive.
Planned gifts, such as bequests, are an integral part of a well-rounded estate plan. By including charitable donations in their estate plans, individuals like Marcia and Marvin Thomas can ensure that their legacy continues to support the causes they care about. This approach not only benefits the intended recipients but also provides the donor with peace of mind, knowing that their contributions will have a lasting impact.
The Community Foundation of Howard County: A Trusted Partner
The Community Foundation of Howard County has been a trusted partner for many donors looking to make a difference in their community. By establishing the endowed fund with Marvin years ago, Marcia demonstrated her foresight and commitment to philanthropy. Her recent bequest is a continuation of that legacy, ensuring that the fund will continue to grow and support the community’s needs.
The Thomas’s generous bequest to the endowed fund at the Community Foundation of Howard County will leave a lasting legacy for the Thomas Family and the community. This planned gift is a powerful example of how thoughtful estate planning and charitable giving can create a positive impact that extends far beyond the donor’s lifetime. As we reflect on Marvin and Marcia’s generosity, we are reminded of the profound difference that thoughtful philanthropy can make in our world.