By Amy Anderson, Northwest Arkansas Development Officer
Vernon McDaniel is a lifelong Methodist born and raised in Ozark, AR. Well, technically, he was born in Fort Smith because that was the closest hospital at the time. But not only has he lived in Ozark for most of his life, but he has also continued to give back to the community he loves.
He joined Ozark United Methodist Church at the age of nine and has been very involved over the years, holding pretty much every position the church offers. He moved away for college, and work as a college professor took him to three other states, but Vernon returned home and has been living there for the last 45 years.
During these years, he has served as the Mayor of Ozark for three four-year terms, actively writes for the local newspaper, The Spectator, volunteers at the Ozark Area Depot Museum, is on various boards and committees in the community, and is head of the local Salvation Army. Oh, and did I mention he is an avid tennis player and runner?
Another way that he has chosen to give back is by investing with The Methodist Foundation for Arkansas. When I asked Vernon why he decided to invest with the Foundation, he explained, “After receiving literature on the Foundation and doing some research, my main reasons were that the Foundation efficiently managed its funds and continuously did a great job in carrying out its mission.”
Since becoming a friend and client of the Foundation in 2018, he has appreciated everyone’s willingness to be open and answer his questions about his investments. He chose to open Charitable Gift Annuities (CGAs) for its immediate tax deduction but also for the benefit of knowing that after he passes, the Foundation will receive the remaining balance of the annuity, ensuring that his legacy of charitable giving will continue. But, in the meantime, he works with the Foundation to generously give to organizations that impact Methodists across the state of Arkansas.
Want to learn more about Charitable Gift Annuities and how the Foundation can help plan your legacy? Contact Amy Anderson at
