Arbella in the Community - Here. For Good.

Douglas MacDonald, president of Murray & MacDonald Insurance Agency in Bourne, MA, is no stranger to charitable giving; he’s been deeply involved in making his community a better place since college. “I didn’t have much to give while I was in school, but I made it a personal habit to give a certain percent of what I earned to organizations in need throughout my community.”

Douglas brought his charitable philosophy to Murray & MacDonald when he became president of the agency in 1997. “Every year, we designate 10 percent of the agency’s profits to charitable organizations,” he says. “Our employees appreciate the agency’s charitable commitment to the community. I believe they are proud of the way we give back.”

Currently Douglas serves on the boards of Cape Cod Symphony and Conservatory of Music and Arts and as a trustee at Heritage Christian Church. “It is fulfilling for me to know that I’m playing a role in bettering the lives of people in our community,” Douglas says. “As a result of our agency’s charitable involvement, I have gained much over the years—new friends, opportunities, wisdom, and a deep sense of satisfaction.”

Through the Arbella Insurance Foundation, Douglas has utilized the Agent Matching Gift Program for eight years and gives generously to several charitable organizations, including The Boys & Girls Club of Cape Cod, Community Health of Cape Cod, Falmouth Academy, and Teen Challenge. Through the foundation, he has supported the Cape Cod Symphony and Conservatory of Music and Arts with a three-year, $15,000 donation. “As the organization’s corporate secretary and someone who appreciates music, I’m thrilled that the foundation has so generously supported the conservatory,” Douglas says.

Douglas’ charitable giving is diverse—and that’s his intention. “I support organizations that are committed to improving our lives, culture, and societal fabric so that future generations, including my grandson’s, will thrive.”

While Douglas prefers to give quietly, even anonymously, his admiration for the Arbella Insurance Foundation is palpable. “The fact that John and Beverly are so committed to supporting grassroots organizations is inspiring,” he says. “I find it so much more meaningful than giving a larger amount to a large organization. Given the ease of the process, every agent should take advantage of what the foundation has to offer.”

Originally written for the Trade Winds Magazine (Here. For Good.)