A Plattsburgh couple finds joy in supporting their community

Alan Booth’s mother had a mantra when learning about a local issue: “What can we do about it?”

Action always followed — she and Alan’s father helped form what became the United Way of the Adirondack Region; she was also one of the founders of the Christmas Bureau. Alan was the third generation to work at Booth Insurance, in Plattsburgh, and community service was a given. He recalls visitors to his office recruiting him for his first board role: “Booth, there’s been a Booth on the YMCA board every decade. It’s now your turn and we want you to serve.” He has shared his skills with many boards since then, as has Jennie.

Jennie grew up in steel towns and worked in several crowded cities before a recruiter convinced her to go to an interview in a “beautiful part of New York.” Jennie was hesitant, but says, “I have never, ever regretted it. This is a wonderful place.” Her parents were similarly committed to being “a blessing” to others; she discovered the joy of giving back when she was young and it has been a throughline in her life. During her first month in Plattsburgh, Jennie sought out volunteer opportunities. She answered the phone at the crisis center before connecting with organizations that benefited from her board involvement and volunteerism.

When the Booths learned of the opportunity to establish a legacy fund with Adirondack Community Foundation, they loved the idea. They could build an endowed fund that will address the needs that concern them most, well into the future — including youth support, food insecurity, education, health, and the environment. Their fund will also meet the unknown needs of tomorrow, with a portion of their gift supporting the Generous Acts Fund.

One of the key reasons a legacy fund spoke to them is that it will provide longevity to their giving. Compound interest means that over years, the organizations they love will receive more support than they’d be able to give with a one-time bequest. “We could pass on our money a lot of different ways, but this is the most important way for us,” says Alan.

They believe that local philanthropy is a team effort, and people who are in a position to do so need to team up to help the less fortunate.