News

When we think about leaving a legacy, we often consider the impact we have on our families, our friends, and the people closest to us. But legacy can extend far beyond that—it can be a gift to the entire community, ensuring that the causes and organizations we care about continue to thrive for generations to come.

Estate planning isn’t just about dividing assets; it’s about making thoughtful choices that reflect what matters most to you. Without a plan, decisions about your estate may be left to the courts, and the opportunity to support the people and places you cherish could be lost. By including charitable giving in your estate plan, you ensure that a portion of what you’ve worked for continues to strengthen Fayette County for years to come.

Planned giving through the Fayette Community Foundation offers individuals and families the opportunity to create lasting change. By making arrangements in your estate plan or contributing to an endowment, you can ensure that your generosity supports the community in meaningful ways long after you’re gone. Endowments work by contributing enough funds to invest so that each year there is income generated, and a portion of that income is distributed to support the causes that are important to you. The main part of the endowment remains safe so that your gift can be repeated year after year after year.

People often assume that only the wealthy can establish funds at the Foundation, but that’s simply not true. With as little as $5,000, you can create an endowed fund that will grow over time and provide ongoing support to the causes that matter most to you. Whether you want to support local nonprofits, fund scholarships for students, or contribute to the community’s greatest needs, there’s a way to make a difference.

Some donors choose to establish their own fund, directing support to a specific organization or area of interest, while others contribute to an existing fund that aligns with their values. This allows the fund to grow and generate more interest so that larger distributions can be made. The Foundation also offers unrestricted “Community Impact” endowment funds, which provide flexible grantmaking to address the county’s most pressing needs as they arise.

There are many ways to give, including cash donations, stocks and bonds, charitable trusts, gifts of grain, real estate, IRA rollovers, required minimum distributions (RMDs), and life insurance policies. Each of these options allows donors to maximize their charitable giving while also benefiting from potential tax advantages.

The types of endowments available through the Foundation ensure that donors can tailor their giving to fit their philanthropic goals:

• Community Impact Funds provide adaptable grantmaking that meets the county’s evolving needs. These funds are also currently being matched $2:$1 by Lilly Endowment Inc. until the end of the year!
• Field of Interest Funds support causes such as parks, education, arts, or animal welfare.
• Designated Funds ensure that specific organizations receive ongoing support.
• Donor-Advised Funds allow donors to stay actively involved in directing their charitable giving.
• Scholarship Funds provide financial assistance to students pursuing higher education.
• Operational Funds help sustain the Foundation itself, ensuring it can continue its vital work in the community.

One of the most powerful aspects of planned giving is that it allows anyone to become a philanthropist. You don’t have to be a millionaire to make a difference. In fact, in Fayette County, the people who do make a difference are your own neighbors. Thoughtful planning and commitment to your community are all it takes to create a lasting impact.

If you’re interested in exploring the possibilities of planned giving, the Fayette Community Foundation is here to help. While we can’t offer legal advice, we can discuss options and guide you to resources that will support your philanthropic goals. Speaking with your attorney or financial advisor can help ensure that your giving aligns with your overall estate planning wishes.

A legacy isn’t just about what we leave behind—it’s about how we shape the future. Through planned giving, you have the opportunity to ensure that the values you hold dear continue to strengthen our community for years to come.