Years ago, ICC supporters, Hal and Jackie Williams, made the noble decision to allocate part of their estate to help ICC orphans.
At retirement, they sold their physical therapy business after building it for 30 years and were shocked to find out the government would take 47% of the selling price. When they discovered they could set up a trust from the proceeds and direct it towards a charitable cause, it was an easy decision.
As we relish the final moments of summer and begin gearing up for fall, this is a perfect time to give thought to a critical and often-overlooked subject: the creation or updating of a will or trust.
In honor of ‘Make a Will Month’ this August, ICC highlights the importance of estate planning through our partnership with FreeWill, an online will-making platform. With this tool, you can create your personal will or trust in as little as 20 minutes.
Shockingly, about two-thirds of adults have yet to create a will. Amid our busy lives, it is easy to procrastinate on this task that generates the kind of peace of mind a well-planned will affords. Such a document ensures your legacy to your kin and cherished causes extends beyond your lifetime.
You may ask: “Why do I need a will? I don’t have a lot of money or property.” Besides distributing assets, wills can designate a guardian for minor children, name someone to care for your pets, give instructions for digital assets and write funeral wishes.
Some may think their family already knows their wishes so a will is unnecessary. However, without a will, your beneficiaries will usually have to wait months or even years for the courts to determine how your assets are distributed. This can be costly and stressful for your loved ones.
Major life events such as the arrival of new family members, marriages, retirement, and inheritances can necessitate amendments to your will. This August, let us inspire you to seize this opportunity to ensure your legacy aligns with your life’s goals and philanthropic intentions.
When Hal and Jackie set up their trust, they said, “It has given us great satisfaction to support ICC through our trust. When we are no longer here, God’s children will still be cared for.”
The Williams’ story underscores the profound satisfaction derived from future planning. Despite Hal’s passing, his foresight continues to support ICC’s mission.
“The trust [or will] you establish now leaves a legacy no amount of money could ever buy . . . tiny souls for the kingdom,” Hal had shared.
Today, his wife, Jackie, carries on their legacy, uplifting the young lives of ICC orphans.
So, this ‘Make a Will Month’, take time to revise or create your will at FreeWill.com/ICCWA , considering the transformative impact of your decisions, especially on the lives of countless children globally. Enjoy the serenity that accompanies the assurance of a well-devised plan.
For more information on using the FreeWill tool or including ICC in your Will or trust, reach out to Wendy Clark, Communications Coordinator.
Email: wendy@forhiskids.org or call 800-422-7729.
