Many people without children wonder how they want their legacy to take shape. Without the need to plan for biological heirs, they often have unique freedom to direct their resources, time, and values toward the broader community. In fact, Americans over 50 without children are more than four times as likely as parents to include charity in their estate plans.
If this sounds like you—or someone you advise—here are three themes to explore when creating an intentional philanthropic strategy:
1. Treat charitable giving as part of your identity.
Your giving can reflect what matters most to you. A fund at the Community Foundation can carry your name or a name that expresses your values—“Smith Family Fund,” “Building Stronger Communities Fund,” “Animal Welfare Innovation Fund,” or anything meaningful to you.
2. Integrate charitable planning into your estate plan.
Without the need to provide for children, many donors have more flexibility to create a lasting legacy aligned with their values. We can work alongside your estate planning advisors to structure charitable gifts—during life or at death—that direct your assets to the causes you care about most.
3. Expand the circle.
You may choose to involve nieces, nephews, younger relatives, or trusted community members in your philanthropy. A donor-advised fund allows you to name successor advisors who can continue recommending grants after your lifetime.
Whether or not you have children, the Community Foundation is here to help you build a charitable plan that reflects your values and strengthens the community you care about. We would be honored to support you—reach out anytime.