National Estate Planning Week
As we observe National Estate Planning Week, it's a reminder of how important it is to plan not just for our future, but for the causes and communities we care about. Estate planning doesn’t have to be complex or only for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who wants their values to continue making an impact long after they’re gone.
At United Way of Central Illinois, we know how powerful a planned gift can be. These gifts ensure that our work to strengthen local resilience and advance health, youth opportunity, and financial security for every person in Sangamon and Menard County continues for the next generation and beyond.
Why Having a Will Matters
Creating a will is a simple yet essential way to ensure your wishes are honored, especially when it comes to supporting the causes you care about. Without a will, your assets may be distributed by the courts, potentially against your wishes. Having a will gives you peace of mind and helps you leave a legacy that matters. You’re even able to make a legal, no-cost will today by utilizing www.freewill.com!
The Power of Planned Gifts
One of the most meaningful ways to leave a lasting impact is through a planned gift to United Way. Whether it’s through a bequest in your will or naming United Way as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy, your gift can continue supporting our programs for years to come—helping children succeed, families thrive, and individuals live healthier lives.
As one of donors shared:
“Steve and I are passionate about the work of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. We believe literacy is a key to a successful Springfield community; therefore, we included DPIL via our United Way in our estate planning to ensure this good work can continue. It’s comforting to think that we can continue to make an impact and that young children will continue to receive books and increase their reading skills and school readiness through our gifts.
We encourage others to thoughtfully consider including United Way of Central Illinois in their estate planning to enable continuation of programs they care about today.”
-Dr. Diane Rutledge, Past Board Chair and Legacy Donor
Making an Impact
This National Estate Planning Week, when you consider including United Way in your estate plan, you're making a lasting difference in central Illinois. Every gift, large or small, creates a ripple effect that strengthens the foundation of our community. These gifts are critical to making sure that we can continue our work to mobilize our community to action so that all can thrive. If you’re ready to start planning, I am here to help! Contact me at mreynolds@uwcil.org or 217.726.7000, extension 208 to learn more about how you can leave a legacy that will benefit generations to come.
Let’s work together to build a brighter future!
Megan Reynolds
Director of Donor Engagement