The Power of a Modest Planned Gift 

When many people hear the term “planned giving,” they often think of large, life-changing donations. While planned gifts can certainly be significant, the beauty of this type of giving is that it doesn’t have to be. Whether you are donating a portion of your estate, a modest amount of money, or simply making a small provision in your will, planned giving is about leaving a lasting legacy for the causes and organizations you care about. 

A common misconception is that planned gifts must be substantial to make a difference. In reality, every planned gift – no matter the size – can have a lasting impact at Camp Ondessonk, especially when it’s part of a long-term strategy. Even a modest contribution can grow over time through prudent investment, and provide meaningful support for future generations of campers. 

You don’t need to have a large estate or immense wealth to start planning your legacy. Here are a few benefits of starting small with your planned giving: 

• Start Early: The earlier you begin, the more flexibility you have to make adjustments. Starting with a small bequest or a percentage of your estate allows you to plant the seed of your legacy, which can grow as you build more wealth. 

• Less Pressure: Knowing that your planned gift doesn’t have to be large can take the pressure off. You can contribute a portion of your estate now and increase the size of your gift over time, as your financial situation allows. 

• Tax Advantages: Even small gifts can provide tax advantages. Certain planned gifts, such as charitable remainder trusts, offer income tax deductions and other tax benefits that can improve your overall financial outlook. 

• Personal Satisfaction: Planned giving offers the satisfaction of knowing that you’re contributing to a cause you care about. Whether your gift is small or large, you are making a meaningful impact on the future of the organization you love. 

Planned giving is accessible to everyone. It doesn’t require large sums of money, and it’s a powerful way to make a lasting impact on the causes and organizations that matter to you. Whether your gift is big or small, and whether you choose to adjust over time, your contribution will play a role in securing the future of the nonprofit organizations you cherish. So, take the first step today – start small, and let your legacy grow. 

Click here to learn more about Giving to Camp Ondessonk.