January 26 & February 2 | 7 pm – 8:30pm | ZOOM

Facilitators: Rev. Brian Roberts, Executive Director of the Stewardship Foundation and Special Guests

As a nation, we are in the midst of what is being called the “Great Wealth Transfer,” where over the next few decades, trillions of dollars will change hands generationally. Hospitals, universities, and many other non-profits have developed Legacy and Planned Giving programs that are attracting bequests and increased donations. Is your congregation set up to attract, receive and care for legacy and planned gifts?

In his book Creating Generous Congregations, David Heetland writes that congregations would receive more planned gifts and a greater number of sizeable bequests if they had a well-defined planned giving program. Check out his article from the Lewis Center for Church Leadership: 6 Reasons Your Church Needs a Planned Giving Program.

In two sessions we will walk through how to establish or re-invigorate a Legacy and Planned Giving program in your congregation. Those attending this training will be presented with an overview of a Legacy Giving program for the local congregation along with templates of policies and forms to set one up. The second session will cover how to market, make an “ask” and celebrate a legacy or planned gift in your congregation.

Pre-work: Participants will receive a copy of a Planned Giving Handbook, developed by the National Association of UM Foundations and several templates of forms and planned giving policies. 

This course is recommended for finance and stewardship committee members, pastors and those interested in planned giving. While not required, churches are encouraged to attend with a team of two to three people.