PLANNING TODAY FOR IMPACT TOMORROW

We are all constantly gaining inspiration from the work our favorite charities do. Their ceaseless drive to change our communities for the better is what gives us hope for the future. Sometimes saying “thank you” does not truly express just how much we care and how much we appreciate the impact they make.

When you consider making Planned Gifts to them, it is a proactive action of love and an expression of gratefulness as you include your beloved charities in your endof-life plans. Planned Giving allows us the opportunity to express our support in ways that are honoring, transformational, and inspiring.

When contemplating planned giving, we not only consider our family, but our family of community and our congregation.

All of us want to support the mission of our favorite organizations now and can also do so in perpetuity by learning how. When we make this type of gift, it clearly facilitates the generosity of our hearts. It clarifies what matters most to us and continues our service to those we love, even after death.

You might think that planned giving is only for those with an “estate”. The truth is everyone has an estate, no matter how valuable the assets are. All gifts are great! Even the smallest gift is a sign of your generous heart and adds to the overall stability of your charity’s financial position. It also inspires others to do the same.

Navigating an approach to planned giving can be challenging for all of us. There are many strategies to consider, and each donor’s circumstances and intentions are different.

Here’s some action you can take today:

1. Write down why your heart is connected to the mission of your favorite organization(s)

2. Share your list with a planned giving specialist. They’ll help you focus on: a) what you want to achieve b) how it will be carried out with creativity c) what is the tax efficiency

3. Once you have the goal in mind, ask for support from: a) your CPA b) your financial advisor and c) your attorney.

4. Let them know they are members of your “generosity team” to ensure that they are “all on the same page”. Together they can help you execute your intent exactly as you envision.

A word of caution: The best planned gift can be derailed by procrastination! Make the changes needed to support your beloved organizations while you can with a clear heart and mind. Contemplating the crossroads of death and money may sound painful. The joy of knowing your plan is secure, and the knowledge of your gift having lasting impact are worth it!