Plan for Your Family and the Place You Call Home
Your Will or Estate Plan Can Support Those You Love AND Make a Local Difference
Have you considered a charitable designation as part of your long‑term plan? Whether accomplished through a bequest, an estate designation, or more advanced planning with trusts and charitable funds, this approach allows families to support the causes they value most.
Why Planning Matters
A historic transfer of wealth is underway.
When generosity stays local, it strengthens schools, nonprofits, businesses and families across Central Minnesota.
For example, a 5% charitable designation in a will or estate plan can make a meaningful difference when directed thoughtfully.
What 5% Could Look Like
An initial estate gift of $25,000 will generate a meaningful impact right away and grow over time.
Over its first 10 years, the endowment would distribute about $13,700 in total grants to the community, while the fund itself would continue to grow—reaching approximately $30,500—ensuring lasting support for future generations.
Some families choose to establish a charitable fund during their lifetime—allowing them to experience the impact of their giving now—and then grow that fund through a future estate gift.
Options for Planned Gifts
Charitable giving can be incorporated into your plans in a variety of meaningful ways. Your will or estate plan can establish a lasting legacy—such as an endowed fund or a field‑of‑interest fund that directs resources to the causes you care about most.
A range of assets can be used to support your charitable goals:
- IRA or other retirement assets
- Appreciated stock
- Real estate
- Life insurance
For larger or more complex estates, additional planning options may be appropriate. Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs), Charitable Gift Annuities (CGAs), and other structured gifts can allow donors to provide income for themselves or their heirs while also making a significant charitable commitment.
These tools can be especially effective for families seeking to balance tax efficiency, family priorities and long‑term philanthropic impact.
How We Support Your Planning
Initiative Foundation serves as your philanthropic advisor, complementing your financial advisor, CPA or attorney.
We provide:
- FreeWill planning tools for simple gifts
- Attorney access for more complex planning
- Donor-advised funds
- Pass-through capability to any nonprofit
- Confidential guidance every step of the way
The Initiative Foundation works alongside you and your trusted advisors to explore these options and design a charitable plan that reflects your goals, your values and your timeline.
Questions & Answers
Do I need to change my entire estate plan?
No. Many donors simply add a charitable designation or update a beneficiary form.
Will this replace my financial advisor?
No. We work alongside your trusted advisors.
What are some ways I can give 5%?
Charitable giving can be incorporated into your plans in several ways.
Our team helps structure gifts that reflect your goals, your values and your timeline.
Can I support a specific nonprofit?
Yes. You may direct your gift to any nonprofit you choose.
Is my giving confidential?
Yes. We respect your privacy and can structure gifts anonymously if preferred.
Schedule a Confidential Conversation ...
Focused on Accountability
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supported by thousands of donors like you, financial accountability is our highest priority. Oversight is provided by a Board of Trustees, and financial records are audited annually by an independent accounting firm. Rooted in Little Falls and serving Central Minnesota since 1986, the Initiative Foundation adheres to the Association of Fundraising Professionals Donor Bill of Rights and has attained platinum-level accreditation from Candid for its financial and operational transparency.