Legacy Giving: Building Long-Term Impact in Fundraising

Legacy giving is a powerful approach that allows donors to create a lasting impact beyond their lifetime. Unlike one-time donations, legacy gifts are carefully planned, often through wills, trusts, or estate planning. For organizations, these gifts provide financial stability, help plan long-term initiatives, and deepen relationships with supporters who are committed to the mission for generations.

When properly implemented, legacy giving transforms fundraising. It is not simply about collecting money. It is about engaging donors in meaningful conversations, sharing the vision of long-term impact, and creating structured programs that make giving easy and rewarding.

Why Legacy Giving Matters

Legacy gifts provide a secure foundation for nonprofits. According to Fidelity Charitable, planned giving has grown steadily because it allows donors to align their values with their estate plans. Organizations that offer clear pathways for legacy giving enjoy several benefits:

1. Sustainability – Legacy gifts help fund programs well into the future.
2. Stronger donor relationships – Engaging donors in discussions about planned giving strengthens trust and loyalty.
3. Mission continuity – Gifts can support long-term initiatives that may not be possible with short-term funding.

By focusing on education and clarity, organizations can inspire supporters to make legacy contributions that leave a lasting mark on the mission.

Steps to Implement Legacy Giving Programs

1. Educate Your Donors
Transparency is critical. Many donors are unfamiliar with legacy giving options, so clear guidance is necessary. Provide information about how gifts work, what options exist, and how the organization will honor the donor’s intent.

2. Create a Structured Program
A legacy giving program should have defined processes, clear messaging, and staff dedicated to answering questions. Tools like Charity Navigator highlight that well-structured programs build donor confidence.

3. Use Personal Stories
Showcase examples of how legacy gifts have changed lives. Storytelling creates emotional connections and motivates donors to act.

4. Provide Recognition and Engagement Opportunities
Recognizing donors who commit to legacy giving, whether publicly or privately, encourages participation and strengthens loyalty.

How Giveable Enhances Legacy Giving

Managing legacy gifts can be complex, but Giveable makes it simpler, more transparent, and engaging. Here are the key benefits:

• Centralized Donor Management – Keep track of donor commitments, pledges, and planned gifts in one platform.
• Simplified Communication – Educate donors with easy-to-share materials and updates that explain the impact of their planned gifts.
• Storytelling Tools – Highlight donor stories and demonstrate how legacy gifts are creating change.
• Transparent Reporting – Donors can see how their contributions are being used, building trust and confidence.
• Scalable Program Management – Organizations can manage multiple legacy programs efficiently, helping both small and large teams keep donors informed.

By integrating legacy giving with Giveable, organizations reduce administrative complexity and focus on cultivating long-term relationships with donors.

Examples in Practice

• A local hospital created a legacy giving program using Giveable to track pledges and communicate the impact of planned gifts. Donors received updates on how their contributions supported research and patient care.
• A university foundation leveraged Giveable to showcase stories of alumni who included the school in their estate plans. This encouraged new donors to participate in the program.
• An arts nonprofit used Giveable to manage multiple legacy campaigns. Members could access resources, share stories, and see campaign progress in real time, which enhanced engagement and increased participation.

Long-Term Benefits of Legacy Giving

Legacy giving does more than secure immediate funding. It strengthens the organization’s financial health, ensures programs continue to thrive, and builds a culture of thoughtful, intentional support. Organizations that prioritize legacy giving often see higher donor retention and engagement because supporters feel deeply connected to the mission.

By pairing legacy giving programs with Giveable, nonprofits can simplify management, improve donor education, and showcase impact in ways that resonate with both current and future supporters.

A Few More Valuable Insights

Legacy giving is one of the most strategic ways to create lasting impact through fundraising. By educating donors, structuring programs thoughtfully, and using tools like Giveable, organizations can maximize the benefits of planned gifts. These gifts ensure that missions continue to thrive and that donors leave a meaningful, lasting legacy.

Start building your legacy giving program today with Giveable and inspire lasting change.