It is a gift of an asset after you pass away.

Everyone. This is not just for the wealthy or seniors. There is no minimum gift required, and no expectation of payment while you are living.

Legacy gifts are usually only a percentage of your estate and demonstrate to your heirs your commitment to Jewish values.

Legacy gifts can take many forms: stocks, bonds, real estate, retirement assets, cash, life insurance proceeds, etc.

There is no correct amount – it varies from person to person – and must be what is right for you. Any amount is appreciated. Some people will choose to give a set dollar amount, some will specify a percentage of their estate, or all or part of a particular asset.

Yes - if your circumstances change you can adjust the amount of your gift.

There are many ways, including making a bequest in a will or trust; naming the organization of your choice as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy, IRA, or pension fund; giving a gift of cash or assets; setting up a charitable gift annuity or charitable remainder trust: Opening a Donor Advised Fund at the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Mercer. Please consult your professional advisor to determine which method of giving is best for you.

The long-term future of the Jewish community requires adequate financial resources. Recent studies show organizations will need to generate 20%-25% of their operating budget from endowed funds in 20 years in order to meet their obligations. By leaving a legacy gift, you help ensure that the values and services of Jewish organizations you care about will be part of our community long into the future.

The advantage of legacy giving is that no money is paid now. The gift is paid after your passing, from what is left in your estate.

One option is to name the organization of your choice as a beneficiary of an account you already have. You might also consider a life insurance policy, with that organization as a beneficiary.

The intention of LIFE & LEGACY is to grow endowment funds in order to provide long-term financial security for each community organization. Unless otherwise designated, all realized Promises will be invested in an endowment fund.

The Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Mercer manages the endowment funds for the organizations in our community. They have been managing endowment funds for many years and have an excellent performance record.

Average returns have been 4-5% annually.

The first step is to complete a letter of intent. For questions, contact Robin Wishnie by e-mail Rwishnie@jfedshaw.org or phone 908-758-2001.