06/22/2026
Legacy Giving is for Everyone
Jennifer B. Schwarz
Jennifer Schwarz | SPECIAL TO THE CJN
Article reprinted with permission from Cleveland Jewish News
Common misconceptions about legacy giving can sometimes stand in the way of donors having the experience of creating meaningful plans which put their values into action. Legacy gifts do not have to be fixed and final, or complex and procedural.
Often, the most important part of the legacy conversation is talking about the why. I have found that those kinds of conversations make planning a legacy gift a fulfilling experience that is an affirmation of values – donors have the opportunity to reflect on what means the most to them now and in the future.
Don’t let common misconceptions get in your way of creating a gift that will support the causes and organizations you care most about.
You’re never too young to start
Understandably, those who are in the midst of family planning, picking out schools or getting careers off the ground may think that legacy planning is something that can wait until down the road.
In reality, there is no magic age, and it’s never too early to start thinking about how you want your giving to live on long after you are gone. The plans you make now can change as your life changes. The important thing is to get them started so you have more time to think them through and share them with those you love.
In fact, many people in this time frame are creating their first version of estate plans because of their expanding families – so it can be the perfect time to include the causes that are meaningful to you as well. Studies show that once you have made a legacy commitment to an organization, you become even more invested in its positive future – knowing you will be a part of their work for years to come.
Flexibility regarding the amount and timing of the gift
The beauty of legacy giving is that it is flexible, and even a small gift has the power to make a meaningful difference over a long period of time.
If you were to donate cash or appreciated assets to create a modest endowment fund at a charity of your choice today, it will provide steady, reliable and growing support over time. Combined with many other donors who do the same, your thoughtful act of generosity adds a substantial source of financial security for the causes you care about.
You also could plan a future gift, such as a percentage of your estate or retirement plan, which will not influence your current finances in any way.
It’s easier thank you think
When many people think of planned giving, they think it inherently involves a very complicated process with lots of paperwork.
In reality, planning your philanthropic future can be as simple as you need it to be. For example, you can name a charity (or several) in your will or estate plan. Or you can include a charity as a beneficiary on your retirement account or life insurance policy.
There are numerous helpful and trustworthy tools that can guide you on getting started, and nonprofits often have knowledgeable staff who can explain the different options clearly and straightforwardly. A professional financial advisor is always recommended to find the exact course of action to fit your specific financial situation and charitable goals.
Start shaping a better future today
With its flexibility and many paths of entry, legacy giving can create a sense of certainty and permanence in an uncertain world – for you and the charities that mean the most to you – and all it takes is a conversation to get started.
Jennifer B. Schwarz is managing director, philanthropic planning at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland in Beachwood.
