Why Your Legacy Gift Matters
You may have heard that “leaving a legacy” is important to organizations like the ELCA. But what makes legacy giving so different from writing a check or donating online?
Legacy gifts…
- Focus on the future.
The support ministries receive from annual gifts each year is critical. But a legacy gift is like a support system ministries can count on to continue work for generations to come.
Ask yourself: If you could live forever, would you continue to support your congregation, synod, or another ELCA ministry that matters to you? If the answer is yes, a legacy gift can immortalize your support. - Do not affect your current finances.
You can take care of your top priorities — yourself and your loved ones — now, while providing for ELCA ministries in the future.
Here are two of the most popular gift types:- A gift in your will: A few sentences is all it takes to include the ELCA in your will.
- A beneficiary designation gift: Name ELCA ministry, synod or congregation as a beneficiary of your retirement plan, IRA, donor advised fund, or life insurance policy.
- Help you recognize the ELCA’s role in your life.
If an ELCA organization or ministry has had a significant impact on your life or the life of someone you love, a legacy gift is a heartfelt way to honor that relationship.
You Can Do Amazing Things
Through your legacy gift, you have a special chance to reflect the caring person you are today far into the future. And, if you tell us about this gift now, we can ensure it is used exactly as you intend.
We would be honored to discuss how your kindness can become your legacy. Please contact your regional gift planner or the ELCA Foundation directly at 773-380-2774 or giftplanning@elca.org.