Give today. illuminate the future.
What Does It Mean to Leave a Gift In Your Will?
A gift in your will - often called a bequest - is a future gift you designated as part of your estate plan. It take effect after your lifetime and can be changed at any time.
Many donors choose this option because:
- Costs nothing today
- Is easy to set up with your attorney or advisor
- Reflects your values and life's priorities
A bequest is one of the most personal and powerful ways to support a nonprofit's long-term mission.
Why Donors Choose to Leave a Legacy Gift
People choose to include a nonprofit in their will for many reasons. Common motivations include:
- Wanting to make a lasting impact beyond their lifetime
- Supporting a cause that reflects their values or life experiences
- Ensuring the organization's work continues for future generations
- Creating a meaningful gift without affecting current finances
Every legacy gift - large or small - helps sustain our mission and strengthen our communities.
Types of Gifts You Can Leave
There are several simple ways to include LFSRM in your will. Your attorney or advisor can help determine what works best for you.
Common Bequest Options
- Specific bequest: Leave a set dollar amount or specific asset.
- Percentage bequest: Leave a percentage of your estate.
- Residual bequest: Leave all or part of what remains after caring for loved ones and other obligations.
You many choose to designate your gift for a specific purpose or allow it to be used where it is needed most.
LFSRM recommends the following language for your bequest:
"I give to Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains, legal entity name of Lutheran Social Services of Colorado, a nonprofit corporation currently located at 1035 Osage Street, Suite 700, Denver, CO 80204; EIn 84-0775550, [written amount or percentage of the estate] for its charitable use and purpose in supporting its mission."
One of the most reassuring aspects of leaving a gift in your will is flexibility.
You can:
- Change your plans at any time
- Update your will if your circumstances change
- Adjust your gift as your priorities evolve
Your legacy gift remains entirely within your control.
Honoring Your Values and Your Loved Ones
Including LFSRM in your will does not mean choosing between your family and your favorite causes.
Many donors:
- Provide first for spouses, children, and loved ones
- Then leave a portion of their estate to support a nonprofit they care deeply about
This balance allows you to honor both personal relationships and community impact.
If you have already made the decision to include us in your will and would like to inform us of this amazing act of benevolence, please contact us and we will ensure LFSRM is prepared to receive your gift whenve it may come.
If you have questions about leaving a gift in your will or would simply like to learn more , please contact:
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult your professional advisor to determine what is appropriate for your individual situation.