As an initiative of the Georgia Planned Giving Council and the National Society of Fundraising Executives, Leave a Legacy was created to work with our local non-profit groups to encourage individuals to make charitable bequests. It's easy to leave a gift to an organization that has made a difference in your life. You can arrange for a gift several ways, the most common being through a charitable gift in a will or living trust. Many people set aside a certain dollar amount. Others leave a percentage of their estate or any assets left over after their family has been provided for.
Some people donate something that they own, like a car or their home.
Others leave a paid-up life insurance policy, retirement account, or other financial investment. Everyone can leave a gift. Most people leave an estate when they die, even though they may not have a great deal of wealth. A charitable bequest will not take effect unless you state your intention in your will or living trust. Without a will you may lose control over the distribution of your belongings after death.