Children were always important to Alan Naiman. A banker turned social worker, he worked with families in crisis, served as a foster parent, and was the main caregiver for his developmentally disabled brother. When Alan died in 2018, he left $11 million to charities he connected with in those roles, including those that directly meet children’s needs.* 

Jane Kesson loved children too—and she loved teaching them music. One student remembered, “It was almost like she was married to the music. Music was her life.” So perhaps it was no surprise that she left a sizeable gift in her will to the Philadelphia Orchestra, an organization she supported for many years. They use that gift to fund teacher workshops and concerts for schoolchildren in honor of Jane.** 

Alan and Jane never married or had children of their own, which affected the way they approached their estate plans. Without spouses or heirs, they expanded the definition of family to include causes that were important to them—and left legacies that are impacting many beyond their lifetimes.  

Proverbs 13:22 says, “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children…” You can too, whether you’re married or single, a parent or not. It’s a simple concept known as “Child Called Charity”—adding a ministry you’re deeply connected with (like Global Disciples) to your estate plan as one of your heirs. 

Expanding your family circle through your estate plan is a decision you can make now that will meet the needs of future generations. 

For resources and a place to start, visit globaldisciples.org/get-involved/give/planned-giving/.

*Source: CNN          

**Source: Associated Press