By Chris Backes | The Catholic Foundation
Including a nonprofit in your will or legacy plan is a meaningful way to support the causes you care about and can make your gift even more impactful. Simply sharing your plans helps the organization prepare for the future. This knowledge allows them to plan more confidently and continue their mission with greater stability.
Sharing your intention gives the organization an opportunity to thank you and express a deeper sense of gratitude for your long-term commitment to their mission. Many organizations recognize these commitments through a Legacy Society, which connects individuals who have chosen to make a lasting impact while honoring their generosity and dedication. For many donors, this connection brings a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Just as importantly, a simple conversation helps ensure your wishes are clearly understood. It allows you to shape your legacy in a more personal way. Whether that is supporting a specific ministry, creating an endowment, or honoring a loved one. In doing so, it helps ensure your gift is used exactly as you intend.
Most organizations make this process easy by offering a simple, confidential intent form. Sharing your information is non-binding, does not obligate you in any way, and can be changed at any time. It is a small step—but one that allows your future gift to begin making a difference today.
Many donors thoughtfully include a nonprofit organization in their legacy plan but choose not to inform a nonprofit of those plans. In most cases, this decision to not share their intentions come from understandable concerns—concerns that are often based on common misconceptions.
Here are seven common reasons donors do not notify a nonprofit, and why it is better to share your intentions:
- “I don’t want to be locked in.”
The concern: If I tell them, I’m making a commitment I can’t change.
The reality: Notifying a nonprofit is completely non-binding. You can change your will at any time, for any reason. It’s simply sharing your current intention—not signing a contract.
- “I don’t know the amount yet.”
The concern: I shouldn’t say anything until I know exactly what I’m giving.
The reality: Most planned gifts are unknown in value until much later. Nonprofits don’t expect a number—they simply appreciate knowing a gift may come in the future.
- “My gift is too small to matter.”
The concern: It’s not worth mentioning unless it’s significant.
The reality: Every gift matters. In fact, many organizations build strong, stable futures from a collection of modest legacy gifts not just large ones.
- “I don’t want more mail or attention.”
The concern: I’ll get added to lists or receive unwanted recognition.
The reality: You can set clear preferences. Most organizations will respect requests for privacy, limited communication, or full anonymity.
- “They’ll count on it too soon.”
The concern: The organization might rely on something that isn’t guaranteed.
The reality: Responsible nonprofits do not budget future estate gifts as current income. They use the knowledge for long-term planning, not immediate spending.
- “My will already says everything.”
The concern: The legal document is enough—no need for a conversation.
The reality: Even well-written wills can create confusion (names, intent, usage). A simple conversation helps ensure your gift is understood and used exactly as you intended.
- “I prefer to stay anonymous.”
The concern: I don’t want my name shared publicly.
The reality: You can absolutely remain anonymous. Letting the organization know doesn’t require public recognition—it can remain completely confidential.
Most reasons for not sharing come from good intentions—but they often miss how simple and flexible the process really is. Letting a nonprofit know isn’t about obligation, it’s about clarity, gratitude, and making your future gift as effective as possible.
Notify Organizations Who Are In Your Estate Plan.
If you have included your parish, your local Catholic school, or any other organization in your estate plans, please take the time now to inform them of your intentions. Informing the organization about your gift means more to them than you know.
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Who is the Catholic Foundation?
Since 2000, the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Saint Cloud has remained committed to nurturing stewardship and philanthropy to strengthen the Church and serve God’s people. Looking forward, our goal is clear: to be a steady force for parishes, schools, and the diocese. Each gift, whether given today or planned for tomorrow, is a testament to faith and hope. The Catholic Foundation exists so that generosity today can continue into the future ensuring the light of Christ shines for generations to come.
Looking for more information? Please reach out to David or Chris at the Catholic Foundation.
David Eickhoff: Executive Director
Email: deickhoff@catholicfoundation.info
Phone: 320.258.7657
Chris Backes: Planned Giving Coordinator
Email: cbackes@catholicfoundation.info
Phone: 320.257.2139