Making a Gift

Your investment in the Shiley Eye Center reflects a belief in the groundbreaking work being done at the UCSD Department of Ophthalmology. For over twenty years, the efforts of the Department of Ophthalmology physicians and researchers have been made possible by the financial support from our generous friends in the community. The department receives less than 4% of its funding from the university and state of California. Gifts of all sizes make it possible to continue the fourfold mission of the Shiley Eye Center: research, education, patient clinical care and community outreach. Every donation makes an impact on Shiley’s patients, faculty and staff as well as the field of Ophthalmology.

Directing Your Gift

As a partner in the Shiley Eye Center’s mission, you may choose to direct the purpose of your gift in a variety of ways. For instance, you may honor the memory of a loved one; celebrate a significant event such as a birthday or anniversary; establish the endowment of an academic chair for a faculty member; support our sight saving research; fund needed research or clinical equipment; make a planned gift in your estate; or contribute to community outreach programs. Some employers will match charitable gifts, meaning your donations are worth even more. We cherish the partnership that has developed between the Shiley Eye Center and those who pledge private support.

Circle of Sight

The Circle of Sight, founded in 1996, is the Shiley Eye Center’s membership group which supports the community outreach programs and many clinical services that make a difference all over Southern California. Three to four times each year, Circle of Sight members are invited to the Vision Research Lecture Series that presents our cutting-edge research and clinical or surgical practices that are unique to the Shiley Eye Center. The members are also ambassadors for Shiley within the San Diego community spreading the word about the amazing accomplishments of the work being done here.

Planned Giving

While you are considering your 2007 income tax savings and charitable giving, this may also be a good time to consider long-term tax savings. We hope that you will consider a charitable bequest in your will to benefit the Shiley Eye Center and save your family estate tax dollars. There are many ways in which you could make a lasting investment in the Shiley Eye Center, such as: a provision in your will, life income gifts (charitable gift annuity, pooled income fund, charitable remainder trust or charitable lead trust), retirement plan beneficiary designation, life insurance policy beneficiary designation or a life estate gift. We would be pleased to provide you, your attorney and your accountant or tax advisor, with additional information.

By investing in the Shiley Eye Center’s goal of providing the best in eye care in Southern California, you become a positive force in the lives of countless others. We invite you to make a precious gift of sight at the Shiley Eye Center today! If you have any questions or would like more information, please call Karen Anisko at 858-534-8017.