October is National Estate Planning Awareness Month — a time to think about the future, the people and causes that matter most to us, and the impact we hope to leave behind.
At the Wildlife Center of Virginia, we're grateful for those caring individuals who have chosen to make wildlife part of their estate plans. These generous supporters help ensure that injured, sick, and orphaned wild animals continue to receive expert care, while supporting our work to train future wildlife professionals, share lessons learned, and inspire individuals to take action for wildlife and the environment for generations to come.
The Wildlife Center is large enough to make a difference around the world, but small enough that every gift truly matters. And when you include the Center in your estate plans, your generosity can continue making a difference long into the future.
Making a Lasting Gift May Be Easier Than You Think!
There are several ways to include the Wildlife Center in your estate plans, and some are surprisingly simple.
Name the Wildlife Center as a beneficiary. You can designate the Center as a beneficiary of a retirement account, life insurance policy, bank account, or other financial asset. In many cases, making this designation takes just a few minutes online or a quick phone call to your financial institution. These designations can also be updated as your circumstances change.
Include the Wildlife Center in your will. A charitable bequest can be a specific dollar amount, a particular asset, or a percentage of your estate. If you already have a will, you may be able to add a charitable gift through a simple amendment, known as a codicil.
Whatever approach you choose, a planned gift is a meaningful way to extend your commitment to wildlife beyond your lifetime.
Join Our Legacy Society
The Wildlife Center has established the Legacy Society to honor and recognize those individuals who have included the Center in their estate plans.
Joining the Wildlife Center's Legacy Society is as simple as letting us know that you've made plans for a future gift. You do not need to tell us the amount, provide copies of documents, or share any other financial details.
By letting us know, you give us the opportunity to thank you, recognize your generosity, and welcome you into a special community of people who share a lasting commitment to wildlife.
And if you're just beginning to think about estate planning, we're happy to help you explore possibilities. Learn more here about the Legacy Society.
Learn More at Our Free Online Class
Interested in learning more about estate planning and charitable giving? Join us for an upcoming online class on October 27 at 3:30 pm Eastern. This presentation, led by Hunter Glenn of the Charlottesville law firm McGuire Woods LLP, will explore the basics of estate planning, ways to incorporate charitable giving into your future plans, and the latest changes to the tax code.
Whether you're creating your first estate plan or revisiting one you've had for years, this is a great opportunity to learn more and ask questions.
This educational session is free; advance registration is required. Learn more and register for our Estate Planning and Charitable Giving class here.
Every day, the Wildlife Center's work is made possible by people who care deeply about wildlife. Through a planned gift, that compassion can continue to make a difference for years to come.
Thank you for helping us build a future where wildlife — and the people who care — can thrive.