Finding one’s true purpose in life that will leave a lasting, positive influence in the world is a goal that many people strive to achieve. As we journey through different life stages, it’s crucial to consider what truly matters and how we can preserve and cherish the values we hold dear for future generations. The Catholic Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania believes thoughtful estate planning is an essential part of securing your legacy. By honoring God’s blessings through intentional giving — and by documenting it in a will — a person’s true purpose can continue to resonate and have impact long after they’re gone.
A Will Protects the People and Causes You Care About
August is a time when life tends to slow down. Because it is often hot and humid, people seek refuge at the beach or in the mountains to cool off. This makes for an ideal moment to reflect and address important personal and financial matters such as creating a will.
Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful walk on the beach, relaxing by the lake, or hiking in the mountains, the Catholic Foundation encourages you to contemplate what holds significance in your life. This includes your family and the Catholic organizations that are dear to your heart. Incorporating a will into your estate plan safeguards and honors what you value most. It ensures that your plan:
- Protects your loved ones.
- Allows you to maintain control over crucial decisions.
- Creates a meaningful and lasting legacy.
A will is one of the most effective ways to safeguard the people and causes you love. However, a survey by Caring.com revealed that 70 percent of American adults do not have an up-to-date will. Without a will, the government and courts decide the fate of your assets. During National Make a Will Month every August, we encourage you to create or update your plans. It’s important to take control so you may protect your family and extend your commitment to your favorite Catholic cause by including a legacy gift in your estate plan.
Myth vs. Fact: When You Create a Will
Myth: Wills are only necessary if you have significant wealth or property.
Fact: This is not true. Wills serve many purposes beyond distributing assets. With a will, you can appoint guardians for your minor children, designate caretakers for your pets, leave instructions for managing digital assets, specify your funeral wishes, and more. Additionally, having a will can save your loved ones from the time, expense, and stress of lengthy probate court proceedings.
Myth: My family knows my wishes, so I don’t need a will.
Fact: Even if your family is aware of your wishes, they cannot legally make decisions on your behalf without a written will. A court will make these decisions based on local laws, potentially leading to a lengthy and costly process for your loved ones.
Myth: Writing a will is a lengthy, complicated, and expensive process.
Fact: This is no longer the case! For expert advice, please consult with an estate planning attorney.
Legacy Gifts Endure Forever
Donors have expressed that they value leaving a legacy gift to an endowment fund because it allows their gift to live on indefinitely. A Forever Gift elevates planned giving to a new level, ensuring that your support for your parish, Catholic school, or ministry continues for future generations.
For any questions about creating or updating your will and estate plan, or to learn more about how endowment funds are shaping the future of your favorite Catholic causes, please contact the Catholic Foundation.
We hope this inspires you to take action. The Catholic Foundation wants you to have a voice in protecting and honoring what matters most in your life.
The Catholic Foundation of Eastern PA Offers Planned Giving Tools
Effective planned giving strategies include establishing a fund with the Catholic Foundation of Eastern PA and then naming the fund as the beneficiary of your charitable bequests. You can adjust the terms of the bequest anytime during your lifetime to reflect changing charitable priorities.
Our team is excited to work with you as you consider your legacy giving plans, whether in August or at any other time of the year!