Planning Today for a Legacy Tomorrow

Every August, organizations across the country recognize Make-a-Will Month—a reminder to create or update one of the most important documents you’ll ever write. A will is about more than distributing assets—it’s about protecting loved ones, reflecting your values, and shaping the legacy you leave behind. At the Putnam County Community Foundation (PCCF), we see wills and planned gifts as seeds planted for the future. Through thoughtful planning, individuals and families can ensure their generosity continues to strengthen our community for generations.

For Donors: Creating Your Charitable Succession Plan

Many people think of succession planning as something only relevant to businesses or nonprofits. But it’s just as important in philanthropy—especially when considering what happens to your donor-advised fund (DAF) at the community foundation after you’re gone. The PCCF team can help you structure your fund to engage your family, draw on PCCF’s expertise, or both—ensuring your fund becomes a multi-generational legacy. Here are three ways to think about your “charitable succession plan”:

• Leave a legacy. One of the most powerful ways to extend your impact is by naming your donor-advised fund as a beneficiary of an IRA or other retirement account. This can reduce income and estate taxes while ensuring your charitable dollars are directed according to your values.
• Lean on the community foundation. PCCF can continue making grants from your fund according to your wishes—or involve your children and grandchildren as advisors, helping them learn the joy of giving through our philanthropic education programs.
• Capture your intentions. We’ll work with you to document your priorities—whether that’s specific nonprofits, community needs, or broader causes—so your intentions are honored long after your lifetime.

Your charitable legacy is more than a plan—it’s an opportunity to ensure your values live on and your family remains connected to meaningful giving.

For Nonprofits: Make-a-Will Month Is Your Opportunity Too

Nonprofits play an important role in planned giving conversations, and August is the perfect time to highlight how donors can sustain your mission through legacy gifts. Here are a few things to keep in mind this season:

• Stay informed. Donors may have questions about new charitable tax rules under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. PCCF is here to help you navigate and communicate these opportunities.
• Anticipate event season. Fall fundraising often brings questions about donor-advised funds and ticket purchases. We can provide clear talking points.
• Promote legacy giving. Use Make-a-Will Month to encourage donors to consider leaving a gift to your endowment fund at PCCF. These funds provide long-term, sustainable support for your mission.

Whether your organization already has an endowment with PCCF or you’re exploring one, we’re grateful to partner with you. Legacy giving conversations now can create stability for decades to come.

Together, We Build Legacies

For individuals, a will provides peace of mind and the chance to leave a lasting impact. For nonprofits, Make-a-Will Month is a reminder to inspire supporters to think beyond today. And for our community, these conversations ensure that generosity continues to shape Putnam County for generations. Thank you for letting PCCF be your partner in legacy philanthropy. We are honored to help you build a future that reflects your values, strengthens our nonprofits, and creates opportunities for years to come.