Ben Mondor, the retired businessman who in 1977 purchased and then revitalized the bankrupt Pawtucket Red Sox Triple-A International League affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, recently celebrated his 80th birthday with a special gift to Providence College .

Mondor and his wife, Madeleine, have made a gift to the College of oceanfront property in Warwick Neck, R.I., valued at several million dollars. The 86,000-square-foot parcel—which affords a panoramic view of the West Passage of Narragansett Bay—includes a contemporary residence that the Mondors will continue to live in under a life estate arrangement.

“Providence College is very grateful for this incredibly generous gift from Ben and Madeleine Mondor,” noted College President Rev. Philip A. Smith, O.P. “It is one more example of their magnanimous spirit and the affection they hold for the College.”

“I have admired the values and mission of Providence College for many years,” explained Mondor. “Madeleine and I are pleased to make this gift to the College. Under the leadership of Father Smith during these past 11 years, Providence College has continued to play such an important role in shaping the lives of so many young people.”

Mondor is highly respected for his community endeavors and civic spirit, including development of the Pawtucket Red Sox Charitable Foundation. He was awarded an honorary Doctor of Business Administration degree by PC in May 2004.

Estate donation option explained
The Mondors’ gift is what is known as a “retained life estate” donation. According to William F. O’Neil, assistant vice president for institutional advancement, this is an option for those donors who wish to make a significant gift to the College but who may not wish to use cash or securities. The donor can give his or her residence to PC, enjoy life occupancy in the home, and still get a sizeable current income tax deduction.

The retained life estate also provides the donor with a way to let a survivor enjoy life occupancy without the associated estate tax implications. For more information, contact O’Neil at 401-865-2415 or at woneil@providence.edu.