Many people believe philanthropy is reserved for the wealthy, but the truth is that anyone can be a philanthropist. You don't need vast resources to make a meaningful impact—small contributions can add up and create lasting change. One way to do this is by incorporating charitable giving into your will.

Leaving a gift to a charity in your will is a simple yet powerful way to support causes that matter to you, ensuring your values live on even after you're gone. Whether it's a local food bank, an animal shelter, a scholarship fund, or a medical research foundation, your bequest can help sustain the organizations you care about most.

How to Include Charitable Giving in Your Will

Incorporating a charitable gift in your will can be as straightforward as including a provision specifying your intended donation. Below is a sample clause you can share with your attorney to ensure your wishes are properly documented:

Sample Bequest Language:

“I give and bequeath [dollar amount, percentage of my estate, or description of specific asset] to [charity's full legal name], a nonprofit organization located at [charity's address], for its general charitable purposes.”

Alternatively, if you would like your gift to support a specific program within the charity, you may specify:

“I give and bequeath [dollar amount, percentage of my estate, or description of specific asset] to [charity's full legal name], located at [charity's address], to be used for [specific purpose, such as scholarship funding, medical research, or community outreach]. If such purpose is no longer feasible, then the funds may be used for a similar purpose at the discretion of the charity's board of directors.”

Make Your Mark—No Matter the Size

Charitable giving is not about the size of the donation but the spirit behind it. Every gift, large or small, makes a difference. By including a bequest in your will, you are ensuring that your generosity continues to have an impact long into the future.

If you're considering adding a charitable gift to your will, speak with your attorney to ensure your wishes are clearly outlined. Feel free to provide them with the sample language above to incorporate your legacy of giving into your estate plan.

A small gesture today can create a lasting legacy tomorrow. Consider making philanthropy part of your will and leave a mark that truly matters.