A Chorus Across Generations
The McBrides’ Commitment to Pacific Chorale’s endowment
By Natalie Oswald
Associate Director of Development
For Jim and Karen McBride, choral music has always been a passion. Jim first sat in on Pacific Chorale rehearsals in the early ’70s and soon found himself on the roster in the bass section. By the late ’70s Karen had also joined the Chorale. Together they built a lifetime of memories — including touring with their daughter Jennifer (also a Chorale member) to Germany, Austria, Hungary, China, and Eastern Europe where they cemented several lifetime
friendships with people they met on tour. Now, Jim and Karen are dedicated to ensuring the future of Pacific Chorale for the next generation by supporting its Endowment Fund.
Natalie Oswald: How does supporting the Endowment align with your values?
Jim McBride: We support the groups in Orange County that have given us the most, and for us that has been Pacific Chorale. Suppporting the Endowment ensures longevity and allows us as former members of the choir to give back in a meaningful way. Rather than make one lump-sum contribution, Karen and I have chosen to give to the Endowment Fund in increments over a period of five years.
Natalie: Do you still contribute annualy to the Chorale, in addition to your Endowment gift?
Jim: Absolutely. We've given annually for years and began supporting the Endowment once we were financially able. If you give a dollar to the annual fund, your generosity lasts a year. If you give it to the Endowment, it lasts forever.
Natalie: What would you say to those considering a gift to the Endowment?
Jim: Giving to the Endowment is more than a donation — it's an investment in the future of Pacific Chorale. If the music you hear tonight reaches into your soul, making an Endowment gift in addition to your annual gift is a powerful and lasting commitment to the continued growth and preservation of the choral art form in Orange County.
Jim and Karen McBrides’ story reflects their deep commitment to Pacific Chorale. Through the Legacy Society, they are helping ensure the organization’s future, inspiring others to make sure choral music will resonate for generations.
For information on planned giving, contact Natalie Oswald, Associate Director of Development at 714-662-2345 x227 or noswald@pacificchorale.org.