|
|
Erie Barber Shop Owner Leaves Legacy Gift
An unassuming barber shop owner and decorated veteran has left a legacy that will benefit children and adults with disabilities for generations to come. The late Dominick J. Colelli left a significant gift to the Dr. Gertrude A. Barber Foundation exceeding $800,000.
In keeping with his wishes, a portion of the estate will be used to inspire other donors through an effort called Colelli's Challenge. All gifts made to the Barber Foundation annual fund through June 30, 2010 will be matched by the Colelli Challenge Fund up to a total of $100,000. In addition, the fund will match new documented bequests and other deferred gift commitments dollar for dollar up to and including the balance of the fund.
"Dom became a friend of Dr. Barber, and he greatly admired the work that she was doing for our children and adults. He regularly attended our annual spaghetti dinners and other fundraisers, and was very dedicated to building support for Dr. Barber's mission," explained John Barber, president and chief executive officer of the Barber National Institute.
An Erie native, Colelli died at the Erie Veteran's Medical Center at the age of 95 on January 6, 2009. He owned and operated Dom's Barber Shop for 37 years before retiring in 1977. He was an avid golfer and bowler, and organized several bowling fundraisers to benefit the fledgling Barber Center. Colelli was preceded in death by two sisters. His survivors include many nieces and nephews.
Colelli was awarded five bronze stars for his honor and valor during World War II, where he sustained an injury that left him with a severe hearing loss.
"I think that because of this disability, Dom developed a greater appreciation for the challenges that our children and adults face and he became determined to support them in their aspirations for a better life," said Barber. "Shortly before his passing, Dom said that it was his dream to leave a million dollars to the Barber Institute. By living a modest life and investing wisely, he was able to come very close to this goal. We want to now try to ensure that we can fulfill that dream."
Colelli's Challenge is a means for other donors to make a special impact this year. "We hope that Dom's dedication to Dr. Barber's mission will inspire others. Dom lived a humble and unassuming life, but the impact of that life is going to be felt by the more than 3,500 children and adults served annually by the Barber National Institute, as well as those who will benefit from this gift far into the future," said Barber.
For more information about Colelli's Challenge, contact the Advancement Office at the Barber National Institute, 814-878-4033, or email GaryBukowski@BarberInstitute.org.
|
