Every August, National Make-A-Will Month serves as an important reminder to plan for the future and protect the people and causes we care about most. While creating a will is often something people intend to do “someday,” having an up-to-date estate plan is one of the most meaningful gifts you can leave to your loved ones.
At Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF), we believe all people and families deserve the opportunity to build financial security and leave a positive impact for future generations. That’s why we’ve partnered with FreeWill to make estate planning more accessible than ever.
Why Making a Will Matters
National Make-A-Will Month is an opportunity to take an important step that many Americans put off. A will is a powerful legal document that allows you to determine how your assets will be distributed and helps ensure your wishes are carried out after your passing.
Our partner, FreeWill, highlights three key reasons everyone should consider creating a will:
- Protect the People You Love: A will provides clear instructions for your family, helping prevent confusion and reducing the potential for conflict during an already difficult time. It also allows you to name guardians for minor children and make plans for pets and other dependents.
- Gain Peace of Mind: Estate planning isn’t just for those with significant wealth. Whether you own a home, a vehicle, cherished family heirlooms, or other personal belongings, a will helps ensure those assets go where you intend. Knowing that your affairs are in order can bring comfort to both you and your loved ones.
- Create a Legacy That Lives On: A will gives you the opportunity to support the causes and communities that matter most to you. By including a charitable gift in your estate plan, you can continue making a difference long after your lifetime. Importantly, a charitable bequest costs nothing during your lifetime while creating a lasting impact for future generations.
How Southwest Initiative Foundation Can Help
Through SWIF’s partnership with FreeWill, you can create a legal will online at no personal cost. The secure, easy-to-use platform helps you protect your family, name beneficiaries, and document your wishes in as little as 20 minutes.
This free resource is designed to remove barriers that often prevent people from completing their estate plans. By making the process simple and accessible, FreeWill helps individuals and families take an important step toward securing their future.
Leave a Legacy in Southwest Minnesota
For many people, estate planning is also a chance to reflect on the legacy they want to leave behind. Including a gift to Southwest Initiative Foundation, a local community foundation affiliate, or another local fund in your will or trust can help strengthen communities, support local initiatives, and create opportunities for future generations across Southwest Minnesota.
Whether your passion is supporting emerging leaders, workforce development, entrepreneurship, or community projects, a planned gift can help advance that vision for years to come.
Make This August the Month You Take Action
National Make-A-Will Month is a reminder that planning for the future doesn’t have to be complicated, expensive, or time-consuming. Taking just a few minutes now can provide peace of mind for your family and create a meaningful legacy that reflects your values.
This August, consider creating or updating your will and exploring how a planned gift can help build a stronger future for the people and places you love. Through SWIF’s partnership with FreeWill, getting started is easier than ever.
Learn more and create your free will.
Questions? Contact Stacy Frost, Vice President of Philanthropy and Communications, at [email protected] or (320) 583-0094.