At the end of the day, not having estate plans in place is not because people don’t care. We care deeply about our families and about charitable causes making a difference in the world. And yet, studies continue to show that, despite its importance, nearly 60% of families do not have an estate plan in place. For a number of reasons, developing end-of-life plans often seems to get pushed into the “Yes, it’s important, but I will deal with it later” category.

However, there is no better time than now to put a plan in place. As I have visited with families about giving over the years, I have always tried to remind them that at the end of your life someone will determine where your resources go, and with an estate plan that person is you. You have the power to support what you care about.

August is National Make-a-Will Month which is a great reminder to plan for the impact you wish to have beyond your lifetime.

A will is a legally binding document that provides control over who receives your assets when you die. A will also opens the door for you to support charities you are most passionate about, like the IFOPA. Planned gifts received by the IFOPA provide a significant boost to our ongoing efforts to launch research that will lead to better treatments for those living with FOP and one day, a cure.

Whether you choose to designate your assets by naming a specific amount you wish to give, or choose a percentage to leave the IFOPA, a will allows you to be in control of your giving.

Have you already included the IFOPA in your estate plans, but haven’t let us know of your gift intention? Please fill out this short form to let us know so we can update our records, and thank you for your generosity.

If you would like to learn more about leaving a legacy gift, please contact Charles Hunsaker, Philanthropy Manager, at [email protected] or + 1 (816) 200-0082.