Bequests and Planned Giving

Live your values, leave a legacy…

You can help Highfields change lives and strengthen communities for future generations. By making a charitable bequest, you can choose to become a member of the Robert Drake Society, a special group of visionary supporters just like you who care for the future of their community. Make a gift and leave a legacy so that the issues you care about and the values you cherish will long be remembered.

To learn more about making a charitable bequest to Highfields, please contact Fund Development Director Laura Jurasek at: ljurasek@highfields.org or (517) 628-2287 x373.

Donor Stories

We are thankful for our generous donors who have already chosen to leave a bequest to Highfields. Each donor has a unique experience with Highfields and a special reason for choosing to make a gift. Read the personal stories of some of our supporters below, and watch their videos on the right.

Picture2Lou Nigg had doors opened for him. He was fortunate enough to attend college thanks to a scholarship. “I have a wife and one daughter in college,” said Lou. “My first and foremost consideration is my immediate family.” Lou and his wife feel blessed with the opportunities they have in their lives, and feel it is important to give back. Lou has included Highfields in his will in addition to making sure his family is secure. “By no means do I consider my current family wealthy,” said Lou. “But at the same time, we had so much more than I did growing up that I feel it is important to give back so other people have the same opportunities as well.” 

 

Picture3Kris McVicar donated a life insurance policy to Highfields in 1996. At the time she was a young professional in her 20s. “Donating a life insurance policy is a way for me to give a lot more than I could ever be able to give in my lifetime,” said Kris. Kris supports Highfields’ many programs and services through the life insurance premium she pays each month. She also receives tax benefits, in addition to supporting families and children for years to come. “My gift will ensure that Highfields’ work continues,” said Kris. “I hope that I can set an example to other donors as a way to maximize their gift.”

 

Picture4Jenny Bond and her beloved husband John have been longtime supporters of Highfields. When John passed away, Jenny decided that it was time for her to make some decisions about her resources. “John and I had a great deal of joy interacting with Highfields through the years,” said Jenny. “We embrace Highfields’ mission and the integrity of the organization.” Jenny has observed how Highfields has changed through the years, and is pleased with the evolution of the organization. She is proud of her decision to make a charitable bequest to Highfields. “I feel that my gift will be in good hands for many decades,” said Jenny.

Questions & Answers

What is a charitable bequest?

Charitable bequests are gifts made through your will or living trust to charity.

Can I donate a life insurance policy?

Yes. A life insurance policy allows you to make larger gifts than you might otherwise afford, while generating current tax benefits.

Who can make a charitable bequest?

Anyone with a desire to give back.

Why do people give to charity through their estate plan?

It’s easy to do, and has many benefits. It will last for future generations, it can honor a loved one or preserve the family name, and there are tax benefits.

What will my gift be used for?

Your gift will be used to support Highfields’ programs, families, and the community. You can also tell us what is important to you.

When should I include the gift in my estate plan?

Anytime you make a change to your will or estate plan. Your financial or legal advisor can provide guidance related to your specific estate.

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