Author: Monica

Legacy & Planned Giving

[Insert your logos and pictures or choose from
six generic logos and stock pictures
designed by the Foundation]

Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the ministry of legacy giving?
This ministry encourages and assists church members to make plans for their
worldly possessions and to make suitable provisions for family members while also
remembering [Church Name].
Making a legacy gift is a powerful witness of faith, love and gratitude. We
recognize the heritage left by those who came before us and acknowledge that we bear a responsibility to future generations to ensure the continuation of God’s work
at [Church Name]. A legacy gift strengthens the ministry of
[Church Name] and helps to assure
financial stability and vitality in the future.
Q. Where does my gift go and how is it managed? [Church Name] has established an Endowment Fund. This fund
and its operation are managed by an Endowment or a Finance Committee with oversight by the Vestry, according to their by-laws. The funds are carefully invested and their use is governed by the church’s endowment policy.
Q. When should I start thinking about leaving a legacy gift?
The average age of legacy givers is 45-58. Every adult should have a legal will which provides instructions on how you wish to provide for your family and your
property. Writing your will is a good time to think about the legacy gifts you wish to leave. Other key times to make plans for legacy gifts are significant life events:
first job, marriage, change in health status, receiving an inheritance, retirement,
birth of a grandchild or death of a spouse.
For all income levels, the easiest way to leave a legacy gift is through a
bequest stated in your will. Having a plan provides not only peace of mind but
enables you to create the legacy for your family and [Church Name]
that you desire to leave.
Q. Is there a specific amount required to leave a legacy gift?
No. Individuals of all income levels make gifts to accomplish their charitable
purposes. Your gift speaks to intention and generosity. There is no minimum amount.
All gifts are gratefully received.

[Name of
Legacy Program]

“The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.”

[Church Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Phone]
[website address]

Frequently Asked Questions, Continued...
Q. How do I make my legacy gift? A legacy gift makes your intentions to leave a legacy of faith a reality. Your plans must be documented and legally authorized by using one of several methods. It is
important to rely on your trusted professional advisors for tax or legal advice.
A bequest in your will or codicil (amended will)
A beneficiary designation of a life insurance policy
A beneficiary designation of a retirement plan
A remainder beneficiary for various charitable trust or gift annuities
A current gift of cash or publicly traded securities
All bequests may be distributed as either a percentage or a specified dollar amount.
Q. What are the benefits of legacy giving?
Benefits of legacy giving include potential income benefits to you in the form of tax savings or lifetime payments made to you through a Charitable Gift Annuity.
Other benefits may be even more significant:
caring for loved ones, strengthening your faith
community, continuing personal ministry,
and returning to God a portion of what you have
been blessed with in your life.
Q. What resources are available to help guide me through this process?
The [Name of Legacy Program] Legacy Committee members
Trusted family advisors (CPA, Attorney, Financial Planner, Insurance Agent)
The Colorado Episcopal Foundation: www.coef.org or 303-534-6778
Q. I’m ready to give! What is the next step?
Please complete the Enrollment Form available from the parish office and
return in person or by mail to the parish office. This notification will enroll you in
the [Name of Legacy Program] and place your name with others who leave legacy gifts
to our faith community.
Enrollment forms received in [Year] will be recorded as
Founding Members of [Name of Legacy Program]

[Name of
Legacy Program]

Please inform us of your gift so that we may thank and honor you for your gift of faith and stewardship

Church Name]
[Street Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Phone]
[website address]