A $2.9 million bequest to the Greater Cincinnati Foundation from a former Glendale, Ohio, resident and HVAC business owner will benefit several charities.

Lawrence A. Dollman, owner of Dollman Heating and Air Conditioning, died in April 2005 at the age of 92. He took over his father's business after leaving the military following service in World War II.

In an interview published in the Cincinnati Enquirer, Dollman's attorney, Vincent Salinas, said Dollman's dream was to use his wealth to help others.

"It was his dream to help relieve suffering of those who truly needed help," Salinas told the newspaper. "He was a friend to all who knew him. Now, he will befriend many persons who will never have the good fortune of meeting him."

The Lawrence A. Dollman Fund will benefit several organizations, including Catholic Relief Services and Habitat for Humanity International. The purpose of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation is to encourage philanthropy. According to the Enquirer, the foundation makes grants and provides leadership in six areas: arts and culture, community progress, education, the environment, health, and human services.

Publication date: 03/13/2006