b'CASE STUDYBULGARIA ONE WOMANS LEGACYWhile Helen Rinker Ashley lived her whole life in the United States, she maintained a deep connection to her familys homeland in Bulgaria. She visited family in her parents village of Voditsa many times, and as she put together her plans for her charitable legacy, she wanted to make a lasting impact on the community that helped shape her parents and siblings.In 2008, Helen and her advisors partnered with CAF America to create a donor advised fund to be financed from the sale of her property and other assets upon her death. The Fund was conceived to improve quality of life in Voditsa through two key priorities: infrastructure and education.Helen knew the types of work she wanted to support with her legacy, but did not designate specific charity beneficiaries to undertake this work. Instead, she relied on CAF Americas expertise and local networks to undertake the planning and program coordination that were necessary to achieve her philanthropic goals.After Helens passing and the settlement of her estate, CAF America implemented the Helen Rinker Ashley Fund, starting with a thorough assessment of the project needs, and formulation of a cohesive strategy for development and administration. A key part of identifying and implementing these expansive projects was working in partnership with the people of Voditsa.CAF America also partnered with the BCause Foundation in Bulgaria to ensure the funds use and disbursement fulfilled all cross-border regulatory requirements, with BCause managing the enactment of the improvement projects locally. Through BCauses management and work from local volunteers, major renovations and weatherization efforts were completed to the community center, town clock tower, health center, primary school, and kindergarten. In addition to infrastructure revitalization, the Fund set up cultural and educational programs including an annual folk festival, English and computer literacy classes for elderly residents, and the Rinker Center for Entrepreneurship and Training. With the completion of the Helen Rinker Ashley Funds mission in September 2024, it is evident that the combined efforts of CAF America, BCause, and the people of Voditsa have proven successful in putting Helens legacy gift to work in support of the villages future prosperity.10 CHARITIES AID FOUNDATION AMERICA | LEGACY GIVING REPORT 2024'