Giving is Not Painful
The late philanthropist, volunteer, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather Claris Poppert (1934-2023) declared, "Giving should not be painful; it should be one of the most enjoyable acts in life." OMSI is forever grateful for Claris and his late wife, Corky (1936-2023), for their generosity and honored to celebrate their legacy as members of OMSI's J.C. Stevens Legacy Society.*
In the 80s, Claris helped raise the funds to move OMSI from Washington Park to its current location on the southeast waterfront. He was then asked to be the corporate gifts chairman, which encouraged local businesses to support OMSI. Following, he joined OMSI's Board of Trustees and later helped to complete the Coastal Discovery Center's fundraising campaign to build OMSI's residential camp in Newport, OR-an accomplishment that he recognized as one of OMSI's finest achievements.
Such achievements led Claris to make a profound commitment to OMSI's mission and create his legacy. Claris sold his company, Pumilite Glass & Building Specialties, then initiated a planned gift to OMSI, giving back to the community that has given so much to so many, especially him. "When I made the gift I was cutting my taxes, too. There is a real tax advantage," he explained. He and Corky set up a charitable remainder trust to ensure them a lifetime income and join OMSI's J.C. Stevens Legacy Society.
Claris believed supporting OMSI creates opportunities for children to be inspired by and engage with science. He pointed out that our school systems are not set up to do the things that OMSI can. "You can't put everything that OMSI does in a classroom," he praised. "We have the equipment that children can use to solve problems and practice and develop 21 st century skills."
If you would like more information about making a gift through your estate plans or retirement account, please contact Andrew Haight at [email protected] or (503) 797-4669.
About the J.C. Stevens Legacy Society
The J.C. Stevens Legacy Society, named after OMSI's visionary founder, recognizes donors who have included OMSI in their estate plan. We are pleased to extend special invitations to exclusive OMSI events and private tours to Legacy Society members. All you need to do is tell OMSI that your plan is in place and that you are willing to be publicly listed on the J.C. Stevens Legacy Society honor roll, setting the example for others to follow. If you wish, your gift can remain anonymous.