May 2021: Leave a Legacy Month

 

WHEREAS, Michigan residents are selfless and generous, with many of Michigan households making charitable contributions annually; and,

 

WHEREAS, all adults, regardless of family wealth or circumstances, should have a will, the starting point of an effective estate plan; and,

 

WHEREAS, recent surveys indicate that less than half of Michigan residents have a will, and only a few of those having a will include a bequest to charity; and,

 

WHEREAS, The National Association of Charitable Gift Planners believes that the American people make few charitable bequests in their plans simply because they have not been asked to consider making a legacy gift; and

 

WHEREAS, nonprofit organizations provide effective and essential services in all areas of our lives, including religion, education, health care, research, the arts, and social services for the poor and disadvantaged; and,

 

WHEREAS, charitable estate giving through bequests, life insurance, and similar methods provides each of us the opportunity to support and perpetuate for future generations values and ideals that are most important to us and our families during our lifetimes; and,

 

WHEREAS, Many Michigan nonprofit organizations, allied professionals, and community leaders are engaged in the LEAVE A LEGACY® public awareness effort that aims to "Make a Difference in the Lives that Follow" by encouraging estate gifts to continue the priceless work of nonprofit organizations in serving and sustaining the quality of life that makes Michigan and its communities good places to live, work, and raise our families;

 

WHEREAS, Leave a Legacy Month is designated to raise public awareness of the value of leaving an estate legacy gift of any amount as vital support of nonprofit and philanthropic organizations in the important work they do;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2021 as Leave a Legacy Month in Michigan.