Planned Giving and Your Legacy

This is an entry from the firm’s news archive. It is kept as it was written, and it describes an event that has already happened. For current guidance, start with our articles or a Right Fit Call.

What organizations are you thinking about right now during this global pandemic? What are the places or organizations that have made an impact on your life or support the things that are so meaningful to you? With so many uncertainties right now, some of the nonprofits that we support are faced with serious challenges. Many of the fundraising activities are completely off the table for many groups. Other nonprofits like museums and zoos that rely heavily on admissions are currently experiencing budget challenges as well.

Rather than foundations or governmental support, most nonprofits rely on ordinary people from all walks of life, giving their time and money to nonprofits that reflect their values and passions. Right now, you may be among the many people who are reaching out to the causes and organizations they love to help preserve them as we are all working towards life returning to normal. We all want things to get back to normal again. Part of “back to normal” includes our favorite nonprofits being there, doing what they do best once again.

If you are among the many who regularly support a nonprofit, or are offering even more support during this unstable time, have you considered leaving a gift to your favorite causes as a part of your legacy when you pass away? While many Americans contribute to charity throughout their lives, only 8% continue this support through a gift in their estate plan.  In many cases, it is because they simply did not realize this was an option, or never considered the fact that their support will end abruptly when they pass away. Leaving a contribution to a specific organization defines your legacy and sends a clear message to your loved ones about your values and the things that matter to you the most. Not to mention, it sends your support for the nonprofit of your choice to continue to do what they do best.

Tell us about the places you love and support. We would love to help you find a strategy to incorporate planned giving into your estate plan.

"To leave the world a little better - whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived... this is the meaning of success." - Ralph Waldo Emerson