August is Make a Will Month

August is National Make-A-Will Month, a timely reminder of the importance of having a legal will in place—regardless of your age or financial situation. Creating or updating your will ensures your loved ones are cared for, your wishes are respected, and your legacy lives on in meaningful ways. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on the causes close to your heart and how you can support them for generations to come. Learn how and why it’s important.

If you’re one of the many Americans who hasn’t yet created a will, you’re not alone. According to Caring.com’s 2024 survey, nearly 66% of adults don’t have a will. For many, it’s something that’s easy to put off. But the truth is, having a will is a powerful act of love and care. It brings peace of mind, avoids confusion or disputes among family members, and gives you the ability to make decisions about how your assets should be used.

One of the most impactful choices you can make when writing your will is to include a charitable bequest. Designating a nonprofit organization as a beneficiary allows you to continue supporting the causes you care about, even after you’re gone. This simple, thoughtful gesture can leave a lasting legacy and make a real difference in your community.

At the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL), we’re grateful to those who choose to support our mission in this special way. A bequest or naming PASWFL as a beneficiary of your life insurance policy or retirement account helps ensure we can continue to provide free, life-enhancing programs and services for individuals and families impacted by Parkinson’s Disease. Your generosity supports wellness classes, support groups, counseling, education, and community outreach--helping thousands of people in Collier and southern Lee Counties live well with PD.

August is Make a Will Month

Making a planned gift is easier than you might think.
Whether you're working with an attorney to draft your will or using a reputable online tool, you can simply include language that designates the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida as a beneficiary. You can give a specific dollar amount, a percentage of your estate, or a remainder of your assets after other obligations are met. Naming PASWFL as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy or IRA is also a straightforward process that can have lasting impact.

If you already have a will, Make-A-Will Month is also a great time to review it. Life changes—marriages, births, moves, or new priorities—may mean it’s time for an update. Including a nonprofit like PASWFL in your estate plans can align your values with your legacy.

We’re here to answer any questions you may have about planned giving and how your support can change lives. For more information, please contact us at 239-417-3465 or visit www.paswfl.org.

By making your will this August—and considering a charitable gift—you’re not only protecting your future, you’re investing in a better one for others.