Leave a living legacy in your will.
One of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family is to have an up-to-date will, regardless if your bequest includes Volunteers of America Northern New England.
Without a will, you forfeit the legal right to control the disposition of assets accumulated throughout your lifetime.
Every will, however, should be different...each reflecting the individual needs and the personal objectives of the person making the will.
For some of us, a simple will can accomplish all of our objectives. Others may have needs and objectives that demand a highly complex estate plan.
Because each state may have special requirements for creating a valid will, you should consult with your legal advisor to make sure your will is in compliance with all laws to protect your interests.
If you want to include Volunteers of America Northern New England in your will, there are several types of charitable bequest language you can use.
Sample Bequest Language:
To Bequest a Specific Amount ($) or Percentage (%)
"I bequeath [the sum of $_____; the percentage of _____%] to Volunteers of America Northern New England, or its successor in interest, to be used in such manner as the Board of Directors shall, in its sole discretion, determine. If Volunteers of America Northern New England, or its successor in interest, does not exist at the time of my death, this bequest shall lapse and become a part of the residuary of my estate."
To Make a (unrestricted) Residuary Bequest
This statement would come after the donor's bequests to family or other beneficiaries.
"I give, devise and bequeath to Volunteers of America Northern New England, or its successor in interest, all of the rest, residue and remainder of my estate, to be used in such manner as the Board of Directors shall, in its sole discretion, determine. If Volunteers of America Northern New England, or its successor in interest, does not exist at the time of my death, this gift shall lapse and I give, devise and bequeath the rest, residue and remainder of my estate to my heirs at law."
For further information about including Volunteers of America Northern New England in your will contact (or have your attorney contract):
Patricia Murtagh
Vice President of External Relations
Volunteers of America Northern New England
14 Maine Street
Suite 301
Brunswick, Maine 04011
Tel: (207) 373-1140 Ext. 221
Fax: (207) 373-1160
Email: pat.murtagh@voanne.org