TEST_June 2026 Board Meeting ON DEMAND-Slide Pdf

Slide Pdf

Pdf Summary

The webinar argues that legacy fundraising is both a major opportunity and currently too limited in reach. The presenters say the traditional model has focused on a small group of wealthy donors, handled one-on-one by individual gift planners, which does not scale and excludes many potential legacy donors. This matters more now because of the massive wealth transfer underway, aging donors, and a shrinking donor base.<br /><br />A central theme is that legacy giving is deeply human rather than purely financial. It reflects identity, meaning, memory, and a person’s desire to understand what their life stood for and what continues after them. The speakers suggest fundraisers should shift from being “gift planners” to “stewards of meaning,” helping donors reflect on and share memories, stories, and values.<br /><br />They emphasize that leaving a bequest is not only for the wealthy. Many meaningful legacy gifts come from ordinary, loyal supporters such as long-time donors, monthly donors, lapsed donors, volunteers, and engaged people who already show commitment in small but consistent ways. The next legacy donor is often already in the database.<br /><br />The recommended strategy is to move away from treating legacy fundraising as a single campaign or a few private relationships. Instead, it should become an inclusive, consistent system of legacy marketing across the donor base. Since no one can predict when a donor will update their will, organizations should stay visible and memorable so that donors remember them when the time comes.<br /><br />Overall, the presentation reframes legacy fundraising as a lifelong relationship that helps donors complete their story and leave a lasting impact.

Keywords

legacy fundraising

bequest giving

wealth transfer

donor stewardship

legacy donors

planned giving

donor engagement

meaningful legacy

fundraising strategy

donor relationships