Leaving a Legacy: How Planned Giving Impacts your Parish and Other Church Ministries

Throughout life, many of us consider the desire to leave a lasting legacy. One thoughtful way to achieve this is through charitable estate planning, a process that not only secures your family's future but may also positively affects your greater community. At the heart of The Foundation of the Diocese of Raleigh lies a commitment to fostering spiritual growth and supporting the mission of the Church in Eastern North Carolina. In this blog post, we reflect on the transformative power of planned giving and its far-reaching impact on schools, parishes, and church ministries. 

Inspiring Stories of Lasting Impact

Behind every charitable gift, there is a story of compassion, faith, and a desire to make a difference. Throughout the history of the Church, individuals have chosen to leave a legacy that resonates across generations. One such inspiring tale is that of Brug and Howie, a couple who dedicated a great deal of their time to serving their local parish. While they were happy giving their time, they wondered about other forms of giving. They heard about Planned Giving, but they had assumed it was only for the wealthy and they really didn’t know where to begin.

The Jungs then learned that The Foundation of The Diocese of Raleigh is a resource that is available to anyone who wants to learn how to make gifts from assets both now and through an estate plan. With the help of The Foundation and confident in the values of Cardinal Gibbons, they established the Brug and Howie Jung Endowment Fund, providing tuition assistance to students at Cardinal Gibbons. The gift is what is commonly known as a blended gift, both using current income as well as qualified charitable distribution from an IRA (gifts of assets) and making a future commitment through a bequest in their estate plan.

Fueling Long-Term Sustainability and Mission Fulfillment

Planned gifts are not just about the present; they're investments in the future. By designating a portion of one's estate to a school, parish or other ministry individuals contribute to its long-term sustainability. These gifts create an enduring source of support that enables these vital ministries to continue the vital work of evangelization, formation, and education. From providing tuition assistance to families in need, supporting our diocesan seminarians, and funding special education programs to maintaining and expanding our local parishes and other sacred spaces. With a reliable stream of resources, the diocese can adapt to changing needs and challenges while remaining steadfast in its mission to spread the teachings of Christ.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Lasting Difference

Consider what aspects of your parish community and perhaps the ministries of the Diocese of Raleigh’s resonate most with your values and beliefs. Whether it's youth education, community outreach, or preserving sacred traditions, identifying your passions will guide your giving.

There are numerous ways to leave a legacy, from including the diocese in your will or living trust to naming it as a beneficiary of a retirement account or life insurance policy.

Work closely with the Foundation of the Diocese of Raleigh to customize your gift to align with your vision. Whether you wish to establish a scholarship endowment fund like Brug and Howie, support a specific ministry, or contribute to your parish, your preferences will be honored.

The Foundation has well qualified planned giving specialists that can help put together a wide array of options to fit your situation. They can help you navigate the complexities of planned giving, ensuring that your wishes are accurately documented. When do you meet with your Estate Planning Attorney you will have a head start on a well-crafted plan saving both time and money.

Your planned gift is a testament to your commitment our beloved Church’s mission. By sharing your intentions, you inspire others to consider the profound impact they too can make through charitable estate planning.

As we journey through life, the legacy we leave behind becomes a reflection of who we were and what we hold dear. Charitable estate planning offers a meaningful opportunity to leave a lasting imprint on your local parish and that of the Diocese of Raleigh, ensuring that the values and traditions that have touched our lives continue to thrive.

By sharing stories of individuals like Brug and Howie, who transformed their heartfelt intentions into the tangible joy of giving, we are reminded that the power to make a difference lies within each of us.

If you're ready to embark on this transformative journey of planned giving, The Foundation of the Diocese of Raleigh is ready to guide you every step of the way.