But organizations that want to build long-term stability and lasting impact often look beyond annual giving. They invest in planned giving—a strategy that allows donors to make meaningful future gifts while strengthening the nonprofit’s financial foundation.

If your organization has not yet explored planned giving, or is looking for a simple way to get started, here’s what you need to know.

What is Planned Giving?

Planned giving refers to charitable gifts that are arranged in advance, and received upon the donors death, often as part of a donor’s estate plans.

These gifts can take many forms, including:

• Bequests through a will or trust
• Retirement account beneficiary designations (IRAs, 401(k)s)
• Life insurance policies
• Specialized asset gifts of real estate or securities.

For donors, planned gifts are often one of the largest and most meaningful contributions they will ever make. For nonprofits, they represent a pathway to long-term sustainability.

Why Planned Giving Matters for Nonprofits

1. Builds Long-Term Financial Stability

Planned gifts often create endowments or future funding streams that provide reliable income year after year. This allows nonprofits to plan ahead with greater confidence, and donors have a permanent fund to serve as a a personal or family charitable legacy.

2. Deepens Donor Relationships

Planned giving invites donors into a more meaningful conversation—one focused on their values, legacy, and long-term vision. These are often your most loyal and engaged supporters.

3. Expands Giving Beyond Annual Capacity

Many donors can give far more through their estate than they can during their lifetime. Planned giving unlocks transformational gifts that may not otherwise be possible.

4. Strengthens Organizational Credibility

Having a planned giving program signals that your organization is stable, forward-thinking, and prepared to steward long-term gifts responsibly.

Common Barriers (and How to Overcome Them)

Many nonprofits hesitate to start planned giving programs because they assume:

• “We’re too small.”
• “It’s too complex.”
• “We don’t have legal or financial expertise.” 

The reality? Planned giving can start simply—and you don’t have to do it alone.

How a Community Foundation Can Help

Truman Heartland Community Foundation partners with nonprofits across Eastern Jackson County to make planned giving more accessible—for both organizations and their donors.

Through a partnership with the Foundation, nonprofits can:

Offer Planned Giving Without Added Administrative Burden

We handle the complex elements—gift acceptance, fund management, compliance, and long-term stewardship.

Establish Endowed Funds

Nonprofits can create agency endowment funds or partner in designated funds that provide ongoing annual support.

Provide Donors with Trusted Guidance

Your donors gain access to local experts who can help them explore options like IRA gifts, bequests, or other legacy strategies.

Strengthen Donor Confidence

Working with a community foundation reassures donors that their gift will be managed responsibly and used as intended—forever.

Getting Started: Keep It Simple

You don’t need a complex program to begin. Start with:

• A simple message: “Consider including us in your estate plans.”
• A basic recognition strategy for legacy donors
• A partnership with a trusted organization to manage the technical details 

From there, your program can grow organically as donor interest increases.

A Long-Term Investment in Your Mission

Planned giving is not about immediate results—it’s about building a future.

By creating opportunities for donors to leave a legacy, your organization can:

• Ensure long-term sustainability
• Deepen relationships with your most committed supporters
• Expand your impact for generations to come 

Let’s Build Your Planned Giving Strategy

If your organization is interested in starting or strengthening a planned giving program, Truman Heartland Community Foundation is here to help.

We can work alongside your team to create simple, effective pathways for donors to support your mission—now and in the future.  Contact Cole Eason at Eason@thcf.org to learn more.