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Charitable Bequests

A bequest is a charitable gift you provide through your will. Bequests are the foundation of the American philanthropic tradition.

A bequest enables you to make significant charitable contributions that may not have been possible during your lifetime.

Why consider a Charitable Bequest to the Delaware Community Foundation?

• You reduce your estate taxes

• You select the form of bequest that meets your needs:

  • Make an outright gift to the Delaware Community Foundation through your will, or

  • Set up a plan which provides income to a beneficiary prior to providing for the Foundation.

• You will create a lasting legacy in your family’s name or in honor of someone you love.

• You will make a lasting impact on the community.

How it works

• See your advisor to determine the type of charitable bequest that is best for you.

• Follow the sample language for the type of bequest you are establishing (see below).

• Notify the Foundation that you are including the DCF in your will.
  

Types of Bequests:

Specific Bequest – You designate the Delaware Community Foundation to receive a specific dollar amount or specific piece of property.

Sample language: I give and bequeath the sum of ___________ to the Delaware Community Foundation, a Delaware nonprofit organization, to establish the [name of donor or family] Fund.

Residuary Bequest – You give the Delaware Community Foundation all (or a portion of) your property, after all debts, taxes, expenses and all other bequests have been paid.

Sample language: I give and bequeath to the Delaware Community Foundation, a Delaware nonprofit organization, the remainder of my estate, both real and personal, to establish the [name of donor or family] Fund.

Contingent Bequest – In the event of an unexpected occurrence, your property will be used to create a fund at the Foundation, rather than pass to unintended beneficiaries.

Sample language: In the event that _______________ does not survive me, I give and bequeath to the Delaware Community Foundation, a Delaware nonprofit organization, the property set aside for _________________, to establish the [name of donor or family] Fund.

Stories:

• Roxana Cannon Arsht

• Lucille Jones

• Josephine Osbun

• The Richey Family