What is a Planned Gift?

Planned giving is also referred to as gift planning or legacy giving. In a nutshell, it is a donor’s intention to contribute a major gift to Northwest Assistance Ministries, beyond their lifetime. So, unlike an annual gift (an outright gift made for current use), a planned gift is for the future. Essentially, donors make arrangements for planned gifts in the present but they are actually doled out at a later date. Additionally, the major gifts contributed by a donor can be made as a part of their financial or estate plans.

So by definition, planned giving is not limited by donors’ current wealth. Unlike the value of donations, donors contribute on a recurring basis, planned giving enables them to contribute gifts that they wouldn’t ordinarily be able to make. The gifts donated end up being larger and aren’t dependent on one’s regular income. That’s why most planned gifts contributed by donors take the form of life insurance, equity, or real estate holdings (among others). Thus, even if a donor consistently contributed small gifts, their planned gift can be of a much higher value.

1. Bequest

A gift (typically cash; personal property; real estate; stocks; or bonds) left behind in a will for a group, individual, or organization.

2. Trust

A legal entity whereby an individual holds or invests property as its titular owner. This can be for one or more beneficiaries. Additionally, there are two types of charitable trusts; Charitable Remainder Trusts and Charitable Lead Trusts

3. Beneficiary

Naming the charity as a beneficiary of one's life insurance policy or retirement account.

Northwest Assistance ministries has options for your planned gifts. Donors may either name Northwest Assistance ministries (NAM) or NAM Endowment Fund in their estate plans.

Legacy Society

Our Legacy Society will honor all planned giving donors for their support of NAM's mission and recognizes future gifts needed to ensure a continuing source of funds to meet tomorrow's challenge of providing quality program's & services.

We would be honored to include you in our Legacy Society if you have:

Provided for NAM or NAM Endowment Fund in your will or trust.
Designated us as the beneficiary of a qualified retirement plan, life estate, savings bonds or stock, bank account, life insurance policy, IRA or real estate.

If you would like to join our Legacy Society, simply click here for help with your planned gift. or if you would like more information, please contact us at [email protected]. If you have already included NAM or NEF in your estate plans please let us know at [email protected].