A few years back a wealthy gentleman in his 80's was heavily invested in real estate. I asked how he was going to pay for his estate taxes and he said "I don't care I will be gone". I asked about his family and and found them to be estranged so his reply did not seem odd. I then asked "Are there any things you would like to change in your community to make it a better place?" Well, maybe better roads with less potholes and more parks to walk and feed ducks or something like that. I next asked if he knew that he could direct his assets when passed away to local Parks and Roads instead of sending it to Washington to determine where they wanted to spend it. Good stewardship asks what do you like or what would you like to improve and why would it be important? Good stewardship plans and is willing to engage into conversations of leaving things better off. Many today that I speak with would rather leave money to National Wildlife Federation or Nature Conservancy or other charities than send a check to Washington. I am not here to advocate for any specific groups but would like to plant some seeds on thinking through your future plans. Perhaps we should be educating clients about options to give them a sense of purpose and connection locally? I challenge you to share with questions and give others education about their gifting options. Get to know your community government and local community foundation as well.
