A Tribute to James B. Potter (1935-2006)
Founder of Planned Giving Resources
Unselfish and noble actions are the most radiant pages in the biography of souls. - David Thomas
James Benton Potter, embodied altruism at its very best. He was a dear friend to many and a legend in the Planned Giving industry. He worked for more than 15 years at the United Presbyterian Foundation, more than 5 years as National Director of Gift Planning for the American Lung Association and ran Planned Giving Resources for more than 20 years supporting organizations such as:
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American Cancer Society
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Brooklyn College Foundation
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Childreach
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Habitat for Humanity
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National Audubon Society
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North Shore Animal League
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The Actor's Fund of America
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Union Theological Seminary
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Zero Population Growth
Known for his thoughtful and generous spirit, Jim did enormous amounts of volunteer work through the years as contact for both the American Council of Gift Annuities and the NCPGC in Washington, DC. Among many awards Jim received over the years, he treasured the NCPGC Distinguished Service Award given to him in 1999 in recognition of his lifetime of service to the Planned Giving Community.
James spoke and was published extensively thorough out the US and Canada on Charitable Gift Annuities and was Chair of the State Regulations Committee for the ACGA for more than 29 years. His groundbreaking work for that committee helped to change the laws and solidify the state regulations on CGAs to make it easier for us in the Planned Giving field and affecting the lives of millions of donors and, through them, 100’s of millions of donation recipients.
It is with respect and pride that Planned Giving Resources continues James’ work to support the nonprofit charitable giving community.
"The most satisfying thing in life is to have been able to give a large part of one's self to others."
-Pierre Teilhard de Chardin