Philanthropy is more than a way of giving, it's a way of living
As we continue to learn from the experiences of the past 16 months, my reflection would be incomplete without accounting for what we have accomplished. For some it was being able to work from home effectively and efficiently, for others it was making emergency preparedness plans for family and loved ones, for still others it was finding new ways to accomplish the same things—shopping, going to church, connecting with family and friends—and the list goes on.
Above all, it was a time to count our blessings and help those most in need. But just like finding new ways of planning daily activities, we needed new plans for our charitable giving. We learned how to make online donations, open donor-advised funds and make grants, provide for a favorite charity through a designated fund, offering immediate help to the homeless, the hungry, and others most in need. Again, the list goes on.
Now is a great time to review wills, trusts, and estate documents and update those charities you want to include in your plans. Surely these past months have highlighted what creates meaning in our lives and especially how we want to share those lessons with our heirs. It is a good time to have conversations with spouses, children, and grandchildren about philanthropy as more than giving but rather a way of living.
Planned giving is something that starts when we are born—it is a lifetime commitment that continues to be built and passed along with knowledge and resources we accumulate during our lives.
Make the time now to update your documents and discuss with your family those charities you love and support to ensure they are included in your legacy.
As always, CCF-LA is uniquely positioned to help you set up the right fund for your philanthropy.
— Kathleen H. Anderson
President and Executive Director
