Your Legacy, Their Future

August officially marks "Make A Will Month", serving as an annual reminder for many Americans to create or update their last will and testament. This vital time is dedicated to securing your legacy, ensuring your wishes are honored, and providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Beyond personal arrangements, a will offers a powerful and impactful way to support causes close to your heart.

Why “Make a Will” This Month?

A will is an important legal document that all adults should have. It allows you to:

• Protect Your Loved Ones and Property: A will ensures your property and assets are distributed precisely according to your wishes, preventing confusion (and possible family conflicts) during an already difficult time.
  

• Gain Peace of Mind: Completing this essential document brings significant comfort and reassurance to both you and your family, knowing your affairs are in order.
  

• Plan for the Future: A will offers crucial guidance for your family. If you have minor children (and/or pets), it enables you to formally name legal guardians, ensuring their continued care and well-being.
  

• Create a Lasting Legacy: One of the most impactful benefits of a will is the opportunity to make a charitable gift. Gifts to nonprofits through your will cost nothing during your lifetime but ensure a positive impact on causes important to you for years to come. 
  

Making a will is easier and more accessible than ever, with free and legally binding online options that can be completed quickly. A great resource is FreeWill, which offers a simple tool that anyone can use to create important documents. All estate plans made using FreeWill are 100% legal and specifically tailored to your local governance.  

Support CASA: Be a Champion for Children

One in five will-makers choose to leave a gift to charity. CASA is a critical organization dedicated to advocating for children, particularly those navigating the complex foster care system. CASA volunteers are champions for vulnerable children, providing a consistent voice and essential support as children move through the legal system.

We are so grateful to all our donors who are committed to leaving a legacy and supporting CASA through their estate.  One such donor is Julie Keeney.

When my husband and I went through the process of updating our will, we had a heart to heart about our personal priorities.  We settled on a handful of organizations that we have confidence are making a big difference with their funding and are operated by people who are passionate about addressing the need.  CASA immediately came to mind. My company, Fred Meyer Jewelers, has supported CASA for many years and I have had opportunities to attend events and serve on the board.  We believe in the mission and the good that comes from helping children find a way forward from difficult circumstances.  CASA’s work makes a difference in children's lives and if we can help support this endeavor, we leave the world a better place.

Making a Simple Bequest to CASA

The simplest form of bequest involves giving a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, or a gift of real property to a named beneficiary. This direct approach ensures your generosity supports CASA's mission for years to come.

Sample language for your will:

I hereby give, devise, and bequeath to CASA for Children, Inc., a nonprofit Oregon corporation with tax ID#93-0923866, [dollar amount] or [percentage of estate] or [real property] to advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse and neglect and are in custody of the state and under the protection of the court.

Take Action This "Make A Will Month"

This August, seize the opportunity to create or update your will. As you plan for your future, please consider the powerful and enduring impact you can have by including a charitable gift to CASA. You can ensure that your compassion continues to make a profound difference in the lives of these children, providing essential advocacy, stability, and a chance for a brighter future for children who need it most.

Planned gifts, like wills, allow you to retain control of your assets during your lifetime and can be modified as needed if your circumstances change. We would be pleased to work with you and your advisors to structure a gift that best fulfills your charitable goals.​ Call us at 503-988-5115 to start making your plans today. 

Planned Giving with CASA: Your Legacy, Their Future