Couple Shares a New Way to Support Chautauqua

Chris and Don Wertman

When Chris and Don Wertman first stepped onto the Amphitheater stage to perform Giuseppe Verdi’s Requiem as members of a visiting choir, they found themselves in awe of the venue and its audience, beginning a nearly 30-year, uninterrupted tradition of summer visits to the Institution.

“We love so many aspects of Chautauqua,” says Chris. “The music, the religious aspects, the lake, meeting people, and interacting with different religions. … There are just so many.” Among their most favorite activities are singing during worship services, listening to the Massey Organ, and attending Interfaith Lectures in the Hall of Philosophy.

“We wish everyone would have this opportunity, but we also know that not everyone has the resources,” says Don.

They wanted to make a difference, and it was their love of Chautauqua that inspired them to take advantage of recent legislation that allows individuals to fund a charitable gift annuity with a one-time contribution from an individual retirement account (IRA).

“It’s a wonderful way to ensure that there is some level of financial support for the donor while they’re living, and then, of course, the residual going to the charity,” Don says. The Wertmans designated their annuity to benefit sacred organ and choral music at Chautauqua.

“I’ve always loved sacred music and we’re both singers,” says Chris. “Anything we can do to help, we feel happy to be able to do it.”

Don is particularly excited about the Organ Scholar program that has been a focus of Josh Stafford, Chautauqua’s Director of Sacred Music and Jared Jacobsen Chair for Organ. They hope to see that program continue to grow, allowing more students to hone their craft and follow the tradition of beloved past Chautauqua organists.

“My advice is to discuss it with your tax advisor or the person who prepares your taxes so that you can understand the methodology that’s involved,” says Don. And then, he says, to connect with a member of the Advancement staff who will guide you through the process to ensure your gift makes the impact you want it to.

With their charitable gift annuity, the Wertmans’ impact will be felt by countless Chautauquans who will gather in the Amphitheater to enjoy the Massey Organ and raise their voices in worship, whether it be on the stage or from their favorite bench.