Planning for the future is vital. This includes planning for your favorite charities. A Legacy Gift is a future donation made through your will or estate plan. This letter politely asks donors to consider making a Legacy Gift. Nonprofits often use it during fundraising campaigns.
Writing this kind of letter can feel daunting. We know you want to get it just right. That’s why we’ve created helpful examples. They are tailored to different situations.
Ready to make asking for legacy gifts easier? We provide letter samples to guide you. You can easily adapt them for your needs. Let’s get started crafting your perfect letter!
Sample Letter To Ask Donors For A Legacy Gift
[Your Organization’s Name]
[Your Organization’s Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Donor’s Name]
[Donor’s Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Dear [Donor’s Name],
We hope this letter finds you well.
At [Your Organization’s Name], we are deeply grateful for your past support. Your generosity has helped us to [mention specific achievements or impacts made possible by donations]. Thank you.
We are writing to you today to ask you to consider a legacy gift to [Your Organization’s Name]. A legacy gift is a planned donation made through your will or estate plan. It’s a way to ensure that your support continues to make a difference for years to come.
Legacy gifts can take many forms. You can leave a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, or a particular asset. You can also designate [Your Organization’s Name] as a beneficiary of your retirement plan or life insurance policy.
Even a small legacy gift can have a significant impact on our ability to [mention future goals or projects]. It can help us to continue providing vital services and support to [target population].
If you are interested in learning more about legacy giving, we would be happy to provide you with additional information. You can visit our website at [Your Website Address] or contact us directly at [Your Phone Number] to speak with [Name of Contact Person]. We can also connect you with a qualified estate planning professional.
Thank you for considering this important request. Your continued support means the world to us.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
How to Write Sample Letter To Ask Donors For a Legacy Gift
Subject Line: Crafting an Intriguing Opener
- Keep it concise and compelling. Think “Leave a Lasting Legacy” or “Planting Seeds for the Future.”
- Avoid being overly direct, which might deter some recipients. Subtlety is key.
- Personalization, if possible, amplifies the impact. For example: “Your Enduring Gift to [Organization Name].”
Salutation: Addressing Your Esteemed Patrons
- Start with a formal greeting, such as “Dear [Donor Name].”
- If you have a closer rapport, “Dearest [First Name]” might be appropriate.
- Avoid generic greetings like “To Whom It May Concern.” Personalization is paramount.
Introduction: Setting the Stage with Gratitude
- Begin by expressing profound gratitude for their past support. Acknowledge their unwavering commitment.
- Briefly recapitulate the organization’s mission and impact. Remind them why their contributions matter.
- Segue smoothly into the topic of legacy giving, hinting at the opportunity to create a lasting impact.
Body Paragraph 1: Illuminating the Concept of Legacy Giving
- Explain what legacy giving entails—a planned gift through a will, trust, or other estate planning mechanism.
- Emphasize that it’s a way to extend their philanthropy beyond their lifetime, ensuring enduring support.
- Use evocative language to portray the transformative power of a legacy gift. Paint a vivid picture.
Body Paragraph 2: Highlighting the Benefits and Options
- Outline the various ways donors can incorporate a legacy gift, such as bequests, charitable trusts, or beneficiary designations.
- Reassure them that they retain control of their assets during their lifetime.
- Mention the potential tax advantages, encouraging them to consult with their financial advisor.
Call to Action: Encouraging Exploration and Engagement
- Invite them to learn more about legacy giving opportunities by contacting the organization’s development office.
- Offer helpful resources, such as a brochure or website link, to facilitate further exploration.
- Reiterate the profound impact their legacy gift could have on the organization’s future.
Closing: Expressing Gratitude and Anticipation
- Conclude with a sincere expression of gratitude for their time and consideration.
- Use a formal closing, such as “Sincerely” or “With heartfelt appreciation.”
- Include your name, title, and contact information for easy follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Legacy Gift Requests
Legacy giving is a crucial aspect of long-term fundraising. This FAQ addresses common questions regarding sample letters for soliciting legacy gifts from donors.
What is a legacy gift?
A legacy gift is a planned donation made through a donor’s will, trust, or other estate planning arrangement. It allows supporters to provide for an organization beyond their lifetime.
Why should I use a sample letter for legacy gift requests?
A sample letter provides a template for crafting a clear, compelling, and professional request. It ensures key information is included and can be adapted to suit your organization’s specific needs.
What are the key components of an effective legacy gift request letter?
Essential components include a personal salutation, a compelling mission statement, clear information on legacy giving options, instructions on how to proceed, and sincere gratitude.
Should the sample letter be personalized for each donor?
Yes, personalization is highly recommended. Tailoring the letter to acknowledge the donor’s past support and connection to your organization increases its effectiveness.
What tone should I use in my legacy gift request letter?
Maintain a respectful, appreciative, and forward-looking tone. Focus on the enduring impact of the donor’s potential gift and the values they share with your organization.
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