Why National Estate Planning Week Matters for Local Parkinson’s Support

Every October, National Estate Planning Awareness Week helps spotlight something most people avoid thinking about—death, incapacity, and how their legacy will be handled. But for organizations that offer day-to-day support to people with chronic illnesses, such as Parkinson’s disease, a strong local estate planning strategy is more than a “nice to have.” It’s critical to sustaining mission impact.

When local nonprofits like PASWFL are included in estate plans, it ensures our community can continue delivering vital services for people with PD—services that can’t wait for a cure to arrive.

What Is National Estate Planning Awareness Week?
National Estate Planning Awareness Week occurs during the third full week of October each year, designated by Congress in 2008 to promote public understanding of wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and other legacy planning tools.

Its goal is simple: to encourage everyone—not just the wealthy or elderly—to put a legal plan in place so that their wishes are honored and their families protected.

Why It’s Crucial for Local Nonprofits Like PASWFL

1. Bridges the Gap Until a Cure Is Found
National Parkinson’s research organizations may fund medical trials and large-scale advocacy efforts, but local organizations like PASWFL are the ones on the ground, offering support, care, and community programs today. Legacy gifts help sustain those services long term, especially when other funding is unpredictable.

2. Stability for Core Services
PASWFL offers over 25 free weekly activities, including wellness classes, speech exercises, support groups, educational seminars, and care partner support. Without stable funding, these essential services might be jeopardized. Including PASWFL in an estate plan helps protect the continuity of these programs.

3. Legacy That Aligns with Personal Values
Donors can leave a meaningful legacy by supporting the cause they care about most—helping people with Parkinson’s live well. For many supporters, dedicating part of their estate to PASWFL is an enduring statement of their values.

4. Encourages Community Engagement
When local community members talk about including PASWFL in their estate plans, awareness grows. That can inspire others to plan and to support the organization during their lifetimes as well.

What You Can Do This National Estate Planning Week

• Review your will, trust, or power of attorney.
• Consider naming PASWFL as a beneficiary of your estate, retirement account, or life insurance.
• Talk with your financial planner or attorney about legacy giving options.
• Ask PASWFL for resources or guidance—they’re here to help.
• Learn more: https://parkinsonassociationswfl.org/plannedgiving.html

Why Support Matters
A diagnosis of any form of Parkinson’s can feel overwhelming. But with the right support and resources, individuals can maintain independence, quality of life, and emotional well-being.
For resources, referrals, and support in navigating Parkinson’s and related conditions, contact the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida at www.paswfl.org or call 239-417-3465.

For over 25 years, PASWFL has provided free, high-quality services and programs to individuals and families touched by Parkinson’s disease in Southwest Florida. Their goal is simple: help people live well with PD, regardless of where they are in their journey.

Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups, including:

• Wellness and fitness classes
• Speech Exercise classes
• Educational seminars
• Support for care partners
• Support groups

There are no fees to become a member, and PASWFL welcomes anyone touched by PD.

Take the First Step Toward Living Well
If you suspect early Parkinson’s or have been recently diagnosed, you don’t have to face it alone.
👉 Click here to sign up for the PASWFL newsletter: https://parkinsonassociationswfl.org/signup-enews.html
👉 Click here to become a member (it’s free and confidential): https://parkinsonassociationswfl.org/signup.html
To learn more, visit www.paswfl.org and discover the power of support, education, and community.