Lemonade with Lindsay – Busting Legacy Myths
We’re back with a refill of Lemonade with Lindsay! In this episode, Lindsay Kopecky, Frances Bunzl Chief Advancement Officer, tackles the biggest myths around legacy giving!
Mind the Gap
53% of Americans say they want to leave a legacy, but only 33% have a will or estate plan.
That gap makes sense, considering the many myths and misconceptions around legacy giving. But here’s the thing: with the right tools, planning your legacy doesn’t have to be scary, expensive, or complicated. In fact, it can be one of the most empowering and meaningful choices you’ll ever make.
So let’s bust some myths around Legacy Giving!
Myth #1: Legacy is all about money
Legacy Giving means making a commitment to support a charitable cause after our passing. It can often involve a monetary gift, but it’s much deeper than that. In Jewish tradition, we speak of L’dor Vador, from generation to generation. We pass down values, stories, and traditions alongside our resources. Legacy can be an old family recipe, a musical talent, or a treasured heirloom. “My own grandmother left me a Hamsa necklace she purchased in Jerusalem in the 1970s.” Lindsay shares “She loved being Jewish. It was in her bones. I want my children to inherit that same love.”
Legacy giving is about carrying forward what matters most. Finances may be part of it, but values are the foundation.
Myth #2: I don’t need to think about legacy until I’m older
Most people don’t begin planning until their 40s or 50s, but just like financial investments, the earlier you start, the greater your impact. Often, major life events like having a child, buying a home, starting a business or facing a health scare – motivate people to get their affairs in order. That said, taking an active approach can have significant benefits. That’s why the Atlanta Jewish Foundation created the L’dor Vador Fund, a Donor-Advised Fund that families can open for their children or grandchildren. Whether you’re 35 or 75, there are tax-smart, meaningful ways to build your legacy now.
Myth #3: Legacy is scary and depressing to think about
Legacy planning can feel freeing! Many donors find that mapping out their future impact gives them clarity in the present. It helps us ask: What matters most to me? Maybe it’s early childhood education, mental health resources, or preserving Jewish life. Whatever your priorities, legacy planning ensures those causes will be supported for generations. Far from depressing, it can be one of the most life-affirming conversations you’ll ever have.
Myth #4: Legacy is only for wealthy families
Not true! What’s wonderful about legacy giving is that it doesn’t typically cost anything now. In fact, some of the most powerful legacy gifts come from people who gave modestly during their lifetimes. Over 60% of legacy gifts in the U.S. come from people with estates worth less than $1 million. There is truly no gift too small - or too big - to make an impact.
Myth #5: Thinking about Legacy is vain
Legacy is often associated with putting one’s name on a building or a street sign. “And hey, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that!” Lindsay reminds us. “Family pride is a fantastic motivator to do good in the world”. Legacy is the opposite of vanity. It sustains meaningful charitable causes far into the future, and helps our family and community remember us and carry the torch of generosity forward.
Myth #6: There’s only one way to leave a legacy - write a will
Wills are just one tool. Legacy giving can also include:
- Naming a charity as a retirement account beneficiary
- Recommending a final gift from a Donor-Advised Fund
- Creating an endowment or Supporting Foundation
- Donating appreciated assets, real estate, or even grain and lumber
If you’re wondering which of these options is right for you, reach out today! Our team is here to answer any questions you may have.
L’dor Vador
Legacy is about honoring the past and planting seeds for the future. As our tradition teaches: “A person is like a tree of the field.” Our Roots connect us to our heritage, while our branches stretch out toward the future. Legacy isn’t about death - it’s about life, purpose, and connection. So grab a lemonade, start the conversation, and let’s build a thriving Jewish future together.