Resources for Donors
Legacy giving allows individuals to commit to the continued support of the organizations that mean the most to them, even after their lifetimes. We all can leave a legacy. Now, more than ever, it is critical that we demonstrate our commitment to building a well-funded movement and strong LGBTQ+ communities across the country. Your legacy can impact future generations of LGBTQ+ people and help to ensure that the gains we have made over the last 50 years are not lost.
Gifts of any size matter
Leaving a legacy gift is something many people can do–not just the wealthy. What matters is that you are providing generous support for future LGBTQ generations. Your assets can be passed on to LGBTQ+ organizations after your lifetime, providing long-term stability and resources. Legacy gifts can come from many sources, including gifts of stock, through beneficiary designations of retirement and investment accounts, real estate, cash donations, and so much more.
It’s also important to remember that you don’t have to leave all of your assets to a charitable organization. You can provide for people you want to take care of and include our community.
One more thing: by making a legacy gift to our community, you become an example and inspiration to others. Perhaps the most important way people become motivated to make a charitable gift is because they see others making commitments as well. And just as with the whole history of our community, we’re most powerful when we act together.
To get started, you can speak with a trained estate planning professional who can walk you through the many avenues of giving so that you can leave a legacy for your community.
Selecting a beneficiary (or several)
You can select one or more organizations to be part of your legacy plans. Consider organizations which have had the greatest impact on your life and the lives of those you love. You can pick organizations focused on a particular area of LGBTQ+ life, such as groups supporting transgender individuals, health services, family equality, youth, advocacy, arts, or legal services. Think about the organizations that are rooted in your community or your state or have inspired change nationally.
In several parts of the country, LGBTQ community foundations can also provide you with possibilities for making legacy gifts.
Selecting a beneficiary (or several)
You can select one or more organizations to be part of your legacy plans. Consider organizations which have had the greatest impact on your life and the lives of those you love. You can pick organizations focused on a particular area of LGBTQ+ life, such as groups supporting transgender individuals, health services, family equality, youth, advocacy, arts, or legal services. Think about the organizations that are rooted in your community or your state or have inspired change nationally.
In several parts of the country, LGBTQ community foundations can also provide you with possibilities for making legacy gifts.
Next Steps
Once you have identified the organization(s), you will want to ensure that you have their legal name, address, and tax identification number or EIN. Most organizations will have that information on their websites or by contacting their offices. You’ll need that information for legal documents.
Let those organizations know you intend to leave a legacy gift–they will be grateful to know how much you care. Organizations will often provide opportunities to be recognized for your commitment during your lifetime if you choose.
Be sure to finalize any legal documents with your estate advisor and keep copies in a safe place.
Finally, let friends and family know your intentions–they may be inspired by your generosity.
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