Give and Take

For too long, nonprofits have relied on reactive fundraising—chasing grants and emergency appeals. Today's foundations demand more, prioritizing organizations with sustainable strategies over those operating crisis-to-crisis. The $68 trillion wealth transfer presents unprecedented opportunities, but only for nonprofits with modern planned giving programs. As Trump-era policy shifts demonstrated, diversified funding models provide essential resilience. Organizations clinging to outdated methods—like complex calculators and printed newsletters—are losing to those focused on donor relationships and digital engagement. The future belongs to nonprofits that plan strategically, not those that plead desperately.

Learn how to preserve your digital legacy with a step-by-step guide on creating a digital estate plan for your online assets.

Explore the advantages and risks of crafting your own will through DIY methods and understand if it’s the right choice for your estate planning needs.

Discover the essential estate planning documents you need to ensure your loved ones are protected. Learn about wills, trusts, and more in this comprehensive guide.

Essential tips for estate planning tailored for aging Baby Boomers, covering state taxes, family dynamics, and professional advice.

Learn how to secure your digital assets with comprehensive estate planning for cryptocurrency. Ensure your heirs can access your investments with this essential guide.

Political shifts spark fundraising panic, but it’s not the end of the world. Every politician exaggerates, and tax laws change—like the SECURE Act and the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act—but nonprofits with a strategic, balanced approach thrive regardless of who’s in office. Planned giving is the key to stability, shielding organizations from volatility and donor hesitation. Fear repels donors; confidence attracts them. History proves planned gifts endure economic downturns. Now is the time to act—secure commitments, diversify funding, and plan ahead. Stop worrying and start building a future that isn’t dictated by political tides.

Joe Garecht has joined the Center for Major Gifts as a Senior Advisor, bringing over 25 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising. Joe specializes in building fundraising systems to help organizations dramatically increase revenue. He will contribute articles, webinars, white papers, and courses, and lead the Major Gifts Boot Camp, complementing the Planned Giving Boot Camp by Jonathan Gudema. This addition enhances the organization's planned giving services for over 5,000 charities.

Nonprofits often struggle to turn sporadic donors into committed major givers. Moves management offers a solution—a systematic approach that plans and tracks every interaction, or “move,” to guide donors from interest to transformational giving. By mapping out the donor journey, nonprofits can anticipate needs, personalize outreach, and build stronger, lasting relationships. This framework not only boosts gift amounts and retention but also ensures no opportunity is missed. Without it, you risk leaving transformational gifts and deeper donor connections on the table.

Our pets are more than just companions—they're family, and they deserve love and care even after we're gone. With thoughtful planning, you can ensure their future is secure by naming a trusted guardian, allocating resources, and including them in your will. It’s an act of love that provides peace of mind, knowing your loyal friends will be safe and cherished, no matter what happens. Don’t leave their future to chance—start planning today to protect the ones who depend on you most.

Learn how to create a power of attorney in 8 steps to ensure your affairs are managed by someone you trust.

I’ve been in the planned giving marketing industry for 25 years, and for 25 years I’ve been saying that planned giving is a people business. If you love people, you will go far in planned giving (and in your career).

Learn how to establish a trust fund in 5 simple steps. Protect your assets and secure your loved ones' future with our comprehensive guide.

Discover the top 3 reasons to establish a will or trust this tax season. Learn how to secure your assets, minimize taxes, and ensure your wishes are honored.

Explore the benefits of Charitable Remainder Trusts, including tax advantages, estate planning solutions, and support for charitable causes.

Probate is the legal process that occurs after an individual's death, involving the validation of their will and the administration of their estate. This procedure ensures that the deceased's assets are distributed according to their wishes and that all debts and taxes are settled. The executor, appointed either by the will or the court, plays a pivotal role in managing this process. Their duties include filing the will with the probate court, inventorying the estate's assets, notifying beneficiaries and creditors, settling outstanding debts, and distributing the remaining assets to the rightful heirs. Understanding the probate process is essential for executors and beneficiaries alike to navigate the complexities of estate administration effectively.

Learn about the public nature of wills, probate, and strategies to keep your estate plan private.

Understanding probate fees is crucial when settling an estate. Learn about the costs involved, including attorney fees, court charges, and more to navigate probate effectively.

The next four years are yours to shape, no matter who's in office. Success isn't luck — it's mindset, action, and personal growth. Staying in your comfort zone, no matter how hard you work, won't get you ahead. Growth requires discomfort, risk, and learning new skills. Every top performer faces fear but uses it to grow stronger. Will you survive and hope someone else fixes your life or thrive by taking charge? Life isn’t a ballot box—no one else can vote for your success.

Discover how to make a charitable gift from your retirement account with these 10 powerful tips. Maximize tax benefits and leave a lasting legacy.

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Bequests are up, cash is down. Empower your donors to plan their will and invest their legacy in the cause they support the most.

Please reach out. Note: if you give us your mailing address (or PO Box), we’ll send you a complimentary Planned Giving Gift Comparison Chart. 

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