Bequest Workshop
Building a Legacy for
Your Organisation's Future
A strategic approach to securing your nonprofit’s financial sustainability through planned giving.
What Is a Bequest?
A bequest is a gift made through a donor’s will or estate plan that creates a lasting legacy while supporting causes they care about.
Can be unrestricted or designated for specific organisational purposes
Forms over 90% of all planned gifts to nonprofit organisations
Represents one of the most accessible forms of planned giving for donors of all wealth levels
Why Bequests Matter:
The Long-Term Impact
The workshop will provide insights into national trends; reviewing essential fundraising principles including the differences between sponsorship and philanthropy; how to be fundraising ready; and strategic insights into donor circles.
The workshop will also explain how to find, retain and build relationships creating long term support using best practice stewardship.
Financial Sustainability
Bequests provide critical funding beyond annual fundraising cycles, creating stability during economic downturns or unexpected challenges.
Endowment Building
They help build endowments that generate steady income, allowing organisations to focus on mission rather than constant fundraising.
Transformative Potential
Small charities often receive bequests equal to their corporate donations, demonstrating how individual legacy gifts can rival institutional support.
Common Misconceptions About Bequests
“It’s too complicated”
Actually, encouraging bequests is straightforward. Simple language in wills can create meaningful gifts.
“It’s awkward to ask”
Donors appreciate knowing how to leave a lasting legacy. These conversations strengthen relationships.
“Takes too long for results”
While bequests are a long-term strategy, they’re essential for future stability and organisational planning.
Reality Check: Organisations with active bequest programs report that these gifts often become their largest donation source over time.
Getting Started
Building Your Bequest Program
Board as Ambassadors
Board members should be your first legacy donors, demonstrating commitment and leading by example.
Leverage Networks
Use board connections to identify and cultivate potential legacy donors through personal introductions.
Consistent Communication
Small charities often receive bequests equal to their corporate donations, demonstrating how individual legacy gifts can rival institutional support.
Identifying and Cultivating Prospects
Use Donor Data
Analyse giving history to identify loyal supporters with consistent giving patterns, regardless of gift size.
Look for:
5+ years of giving history
Regular engagement with your mission
Expressed interest in your long-term impact
Tailor Your Messaging
Create segmented communications based on donor engagement levels:
New donors: Introduce the concept of legacy giving
Loyal donors: Provide specific bequest language
Major donors: Offer personalised estate planning guidance
Highlight Donor Benefits
Emphasise the unique advantages of bequest giving:
Control over assets during lifetime
Recognition through legacy societies
Opportunity to create lasting impact
Managing Bequests and Endowments
Financial Strategy
Allocate a percentage of bequest income to reserves or endowment funds to build long-term sustainability.
Legal Considerations
- Understand probate process and timeline
- Document receipt and allocation of funds
- Comply with donor restrictions when applicable
- Maintain documentation for tax purposes
Family Communication
Maintain transparent communication with executors and family members throughout the bequest process, honoring the donor’s legacy.
Benefits for Donors and Organisations
For Donors
- Make significant gifts without affecting current income or lifestyle
- Reduce potential estate taxes while supporting cherished causes
- Create a personal legacy that extends their values beyond lifetime
For Organisations
- Gain financial security through diversified revenue streams
- Increase overall annual donations (bequest discussions often lead to current gifts)
- Deepen relationships with loyal supporters through meaningful conversations
Your Next Steps: Launching a Successful Bequest Program
Start Conversations
Begin discussing legacy giving with your board and key supporters today. Their input will help shape your program.
Develop Materials
Create policies and marketing materials that clearly invite and explain legacy gifts. Include sample bequest language.
Build for the Future
Remember: building a bequest program is building your organisation’s future. Patience and persistence pay dividends.
Let's create a lasting legacy together!
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