The Alan M. and Sheila R. Lamson Endowment for Arts Education supports PCF’s local grants in this field of interest. “We plan to continue to add to the funds each year, so we can help Pasadena organizations for many, many years.”
Alan and Sheila Lamson have lived in Pasadena since 1968, when Alan was offered the role of professor in the English Department at Pasadena Community College. “I was lucky enough to teach there for 36 years,” said Alan. “It was a wonderful experience, and I love running into my former students in town.”
“Alan and I quickly fell in love with Pasadena,” said Sheila. “It’s grown a great deal, but it still has a small community feel. We have been here for so long that I still remember driving to Westwood to find a decent place to eat; and it only took 15 minutes to drive there!”
Alan and Sheila are both actively involved in the community. Alan is on the board of the PCC Retirees’ Association raising funds for returning students. Sheila is on the Board of A Noise Within, which produces world class performances of classical theater and runs a remarkable education program. “We are grateful for what we have at this stage of our lives, and it’s important to give back,” said Sheila.
In 2019, Alan and Sheila decided to sell the income property they purchased in 1986. However, they were concerned about how capital gains taxes would affect their profit from the sale, and wanted to maintain the monthly income the property provided. Their solution? Donate the property to Pasadena Community Foundation. The sale of their property funded a Charitable Gift Annuity, which provides the retired couple with income for life. Gifts of real estate can also be directed to donor advised funds, endowment or scholarship funds, and more, according to the donor’s wishes and philanthropic goals.