The differences between the GAF and GRF
Although the Golden Age Foundation (GAF) and the Golden Rain Foundation (GRF) are often confused, they are two completely separate organizations.
The Golden Rain Foundation is the nonprofit corporation that manages the shared property of Leisure World. This corporation has employees, an executive director, and a board of directors that sit on five committees: Administration, Facilities, Member Services, Operations, and Finance. Every authorized resident of Leisure World is a member of the GRF, which is why residents are often called shareholders. The GRF is funded by a portion of the monthly carrying charge.
The Golden Age Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization with a small board of directors. Every person in the organization is a volunteer, with no paid staff. They wear red vests at every GAF sponsored event. The GAF’s funding is totally dependent on donations from residents.
The GAF runs free programs for the community including the Hospitality Center in Clubhouse 6, the tax preparation program, the shredding program, the battery recycling program, mobility aids program and the recently added Salvation Army donation program.
The GAF occasionally receives a large bequest, which are usually designated for a specific project. In Jack Schiffiler’s case, he requested to spend on the gym because he loved to exercise in the gym while he was able to. In 2013, the gym equipment was replaced by a bequest from Schiffiler who left his estate to the GAF to make it happen. The gym went under major renovation during in December 2020 to expand the space for more equipment. The GAF donated $75,000 to bring new additional equipment. All of which was made possible because the GAF received a couple of major bequests from shareholders’ estates.
Other than large bequests, the GAF uses other donations such as the Ralphs Community Reward Program, the membership drive, or donations from community organizations, churches, and fundraising events, like the Walk-A-Thon in October 2024.
The GAF is always looking for donations, both large and small. Those who are creating a will or trust and want to help to make Leisure World a nicer place, are asked to consider the GAF. But the GAF isn’t focused only on receiving large donations, and appreciates every donation.
Residents are welcome to become a member or volunteer of the GAF. Volunteers are the heart and soul of the Golden Age Foundation.
The GAF’s tax ID is 237273105, and can be reached at P.O. Box 2369, Seal Beach, CA 90740.
People can also drop off donations in the Clubhouse 6 Lobby, where a wall-mounted metal box is located next to the Hospitality service counter.
For more information , go to www.goldenagefdn.org or leave a message at 562-431-9589.
—John Hlavac
