When it comes to leaving an indelible mark on the world after one leaves, there are many different ways to do so.
They can make significant differences through their work or volunteer life, by the offspring they rear, and by the contributions (financial or otherwise) they make to world in general.
It is customary for people to take inventory of their lives as they grow older, wondering about their impact on the world and the people closest to them.
The good thing about a lasting legacy is it is never too early to begin planning.
One form of a legacy is the story of one’s life and the things he or she did through the years.
Some history lovers suggest grabbing a journal and jotting down events that occur in one’s life. Mention particular achievements or notable things that occur from day to day. Pepper these accounts with stories of family and childhood to start establishing an autobiography of sorts.
Even though people may imagine it is the grand gestures that are remembered most, quite often it’s the simplest acts that make the most impact, ie. how someone treats others each and every day.
Consider one’s daily actions. Smile at people, compliment others, and offer positive advice when it is sought.
If the goal of a lasting legacy is to make money to leave for future generations, investigate options, then one would be wise to research investments that are profitable.
These include assets that can retain their value, such as vacation homes, which mean a lot to families and they also can be a source of future revenue should they be rented or sold. Speaking with a financial advisor also can be a sound way to accumulate assets that can be passed down as a legacy.
For some, a legacy letter is a way to speak directly to loved ones and say all those things that one had wished they told them earlier, but maybe didn’t find the words or perhaps the right time.
The letter, often attached to the will or put away with other important documents, ensures others know just how much joy they brought to one’s life and the pride one had in knowing them.
Last, but definitely not least, many people like to make a financial contribution to an organization or entity in their community that is important to them, and that would benefit greatly from the legacy donation – regardless of size.
In Langley, there are many worthy charities that could be helped by legacy gifts, two of the most obvious being the Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation and the Langley School District Foundation.
By supporting Langley Memorial Hospital’s most urgent needs such as medical equipment and facilities improvements, legacy gifts help to ensure the hospital has the resources to continue to provide the very best health care to Langley residents today and well into the future, said Dr. Mitra Maharaj, the hospital’s site medical director.
“Legacy gifts allow physicians, nurses, and allied health care staff at Langley Memorial Hospital to do what we’re passionate about and what we’ve dedicated our lives to, to the best of our abilities,” he said.
Doris Riedweg, a long-time Langley resident and retired nurse, has a deep-seeded affection for Langley Memorial Hospital, its staff, and the contribution it makes to her community.
“My husband [John] and I decided to leave a gift to Langley hospital when we were having our wills made out years ago, because it just seemed the natural thing for us to do… to leave something to our hospital, so it could go on being the caring institution that it’s always been,” she shared.
“To know that our contribution will make a difference, it makes me feel good,” Riedweg said.
Planned giving, as it is otherwise known, is a really important component to any charity’s ability to be sustainable, explained Alicia Rempel, executive director for the school foundation.
There is and will continue to be a huge wealth transfer during the next number of years that has the ability to greatly impact both a donors family and loved ones, as well as the community via local charities, Rempel elaborated.
“Leaving a charitable gift in your will, to an organization you support and value, is a powerful legacy. Future generations of students in Langley will benefit from your generosity, allowing you to make an impact on the lives of children, families and our community for years to come.”
Charitable giving through the school foundation’s planned giving endowment is more than a financial contribution; it’s a reflection of one’s values and a statement to future generations about one’s foresight, concern, and vision, Rempel said.
“We invite families and supporters to join us in making a meaningful difference in our community by establishing a legacy of support for Langley School District students and schools.”
By directing bequests to a long-term investment fund, one’s generosity will generate income in support of priorities such as scholarships for graduating students, literacy initiatives, student mental health, and in-school food programs.
“It’s not just a gift; it’s a strategic investment in the future of public education.”
Leaving a legacy is something people start to think about as they grow older, but it’s easy to start planning a legacy regardless of age.
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