Legacy Giving
Scripture reminds us, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion” (2 Corinthians 9:7).
Legacy giving is a prayerful decision - one rooted in wisdom, purpose, and trust.
Legacy giving, also known as planned giving, allows donors to leave a lasting impact on nonprofits through gifts made via wills, estate plans, or other financial arrangements, providing long-term support and financial stability for organizations.
Legacy giving is a form of philanthropy where individuals make donations to nonprofits as part of their estate planning or financial plans. These gifts are often deferred, meaning they are realized after the donor’s passing, though some can begin during the donor’s lifetime and continue afterward. The primary goal is to leave a meaningful legacy while supporting causes the donor cares about.
Common Types of Legacy Gifts
Bequests: The most common type, where a donor designates a specific amount, percentage, or remainder of their estate to a nonprofit through a will.
Stocks, Bonds, and Mutual Funds: Donors can transfer financial assets directly to the nonprofit.
Retirement Accounts: Portions of 401(k)s, IRAs, or other retirement funds can be designated as charitable gifts.
Life Insurance Policies: Donors can name a nonprofit as a beneficiary.
Property or Valuables: Real estate, artwork, or other valuable items can be donated.
These options provide flexibility, allowing donors to align their gifts with personal financial and estate planning goals.
Benefits for Donors and Nonprofits
For donors, legacy giving offers the opportunity to create a lasting impact, honor personal values, and potentially reduce estate taxes for heirs. For nonprofits, these gifts provide predictable, often unrestricted funding, which supports long-term planning and sustainability. Legacy gifts are typically larger than regular donations because they come from accumulated assets rather than annual income.
Beneficiary Designations
Making a beneficiary designation gift is a simple and meaningful way to create a lasting impact. By naming our organization as the beneficiary of your retirement, investment, or bank account - or your life insurance policy - you help ensure our mission continues for years to come.
Legal Review Statement
This page does not constitute a legal obligation or binding commitment. Any estate plans, beneficiary designations, or other arrangements may be modified or revoked at any time at the donor’s discretion. Donors are strongly encouraged to consult with a qualified attorney, financial planner, or tax advisor to ensure that any legacy gift aligns with personal, legal, and financial objectives. Dallas Metro, Inc. does not provide legal or tax advice.
Your legacy, our mission - together, we create lasting change.
We’re here to help you create a gift plan that reflects your values and makes a lasting difference. Explore the many ways you can support our organization - and if you’ve already included us in your estate plans or are considering a future gift, we would be honored to recognize and celebrate your generosity.