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Profile on Giving
Dick and Mary Bernhard
Matching Gifts Expand Giving Potential
Engineer Grateful for Employer's Participation
Dick Bernhard is a systems engineer for Northrop Grumman Corporation, a large California aerospace company that specializes in global defense. For the past 47 years, Bernhard has used a physics background and expertise in various aspects of engineering—mechanical, electrical, optics, and system engineering—while working on projects such as defense satellites.
Dick's profession requires precision, knowledge, and the ability to make wise decisions—qualities that carry over into other areas of his life. When making charitable gifts, Dick is equally precise and determined to follow sound financial practices. He especially appreciates Northrop Grumman Corporation's participation in a matching gift program.
"It's the power of having your money doubled!" says Dick. "We're ordinary working people, and it was unrealistic to come up with more. You ask yourself, ‘How can I double my gift?' If you're giving thousands, it's not easy or practical to double."
Dick has given to Bethel since 1985, and his employer has matched those sums. Over time, Dick has been amazed at the amount of money this has created.
Free money
"In essence, matching gifts are like free money," Dick adds. "We're told that nothing is free in life, but from my standpoint, and from the university's standpoint, this is free money—it's doubled. It's too good to pass up."
Dick's advice to those who want to improve their financial giving savvy? Check with your company to see whether it has a matching gifts program.
Dick is a strong supporter of higher education with a special place in his heart for Bethel Seminary San Diego. Dick and Mary, his wife, decided to honor their fathers with a plaque that is housed at the seminary. A plan is in place for another contribution to Bethel and a second plaque—this one to recognize the role their mothers played in their lives.