Leave a legacy of music
GBS has played for Bridgeport since 1946 because generations of music lovers made sure it would. A legacy gift lets you do the same. Many legacy gifts cost nothing today, and every one helps keep live orchestral music here for the next generation.
Sample bequest language
"I give to Greater Bridgeport Symphony Society Inc., a Connecticut nonprofit corporation located at 2385 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604, federal tax ID 06-6012460, [the sum of $____ / ____% of my residuary estate / the following property: ____] for its general purposes."
To direct your gift to a specific purpose, such as education programs, please talk with us first so we can make sure we can honor your wishes. GBS does not provide tax or legal advice; please consult your own advisors.
Ways to leave a legacy
-
Leave a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, or what remains after your other gifts. A bequest costs nothing today, and you can change it at any time as your circumstances change.
-
Name GBS as a full or partial beneficiary of your IRA, 401(k), life insurance policy, or bank or brokerage account. It's usually a simple form from your provider, with no need to change your will. Retirement assets are often the most tax-efficient assets to leave to charity.
-
Real estate, appreciated securities, or other assets can be given now or through your estate. Please talk with us early so we can make sure we're able to accept the gift.
-
A charitable remainder trust or charitable gift annuity can pay you or a loved one income for life, with the remainder coming to GBS. Your advisor can set one up. If you're 70½ or older, you can also fund one once with up to $55,000 from your IRA in 2026.
-
Please do. We'd love to thank you, and knowing your plans helps us prepare for the future. You can stay anonymous if you prefer. Email phyllis@gbs.org or call (203) 576-0263.
Already included GBS in your plans?
Let us know
If you've already included GBS in your will, trust, or beneficiary designations, please tell us. We'd like to thank you, and knowing your intentions helps us plan for the future. You may choose to be recognized in our program journal or to remain anonymous.
For professional advisors
Legal name: Greater Bridgeport Symphony Society Inc.
Tax status: 501(c)(3) public charity, incorporated in Connecticut in 1946
Federal tax ID (EIN): 06-6012460
Address: 2385 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604
Contact: Phyllis Rhodes Cortese, Executive Director, phyllis@gbs.org, (203) 576-0263
More ways to give
Membership
Eight giving levels, from Contributor to Sustaining Member. Give $1,000 or more and become a Member-Donor, with invitations to post-concert receptions, VIP events, and our Annual Meeting.
Smart giving
IRA distributions at 70½, appreciated stock, donor-advised funds, employer matches, and gifts in honor or memory. Some gifts can do more for the orchestra and for you.
Sponsorship & partners
Sponsor a concert or a chair in the orchestra, dedicate a pre-concert talk, or partner with us as a business or foundation. We'll shape the recognition around you.
You don't need to be a musician to make a difference
Give your time
We're looking for volunteers and community leaders with experience or interest in fundraising, social media and marketing, public relations, special events, and community outreach. We're also looking for people to consider serving as Trustees on our Board of Directors, helping shape the Symphony's vision and strengthen its future.
Let's talk
Whether you're thinking about your first gift or your legacy, we're glad to help you find the right way to give.
Phyllis Rhodes Cortese, Executive Director
phyllis@gbs.org · (203) 576-0263
Greater Bridgeport Symphony Society Inc. · 2385 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604 · EIN 06-6012460