Many of us grew up in families that didn’t want to tempt the evil eye by talking about how we want to be remembered. Making a will is a solemn and somber undertaking and discussed in hushed tones.
What if we turned these discussions into celebrations? What if we made sure that those who come after us know what we stood for? What was important to us? What do we hope will be important to them? What if we built our legacy out loud?
Because everyone leaves a legacy.
Legacies are not just for the rich and famous. Our legacy is how we are remembered. Legacies are about our intertwined lives. The love, shared values, and wisdom we impart to our families, friends, and community when we are here, and how we want those to live on when we are gone. Our legacy ensures that even after we are no longer physically present, we continue to care for the world and those who come after us.
JFS is 133 years old this year, and we simply would not exist without the generosity of our community: past, present, and future. Whether you volunteer at the food bank, attend our Luncheon, make a gift once a year or your name is on one of our buildings, we are deeply grateful. Together, we are making the world a better place today and for future generations—and that’s what leaving a legacy is all about.
Legacy isn’t just about big achievements—it’s about the everyday choices we make. It’s the way we show up for others, the way we raise our children, the values we pass on, and the memories we create. It’s in the laughter we share with a friend on a hard day, the strength we show in times of challenge, and the lessons we leave behind, sometimes without even knowing.
You may never fully see the impact you’ve had—but someone else will. One way to ensure your values live on is through legacy giving; a gift described in your will. It’s also known as a bequest. When you include organizations like JFS in your will, you tell the world you are dedicated to planting the seeds that grow into beautiful trees you may never see—trees that will provide the shade, clean air, and lush beauty for our children and our children’s children.
A will isn’t just about wealth — it’s about peace of mind, control, and easing the way for the people you care about. Even if you think you have “nothing,” a will ensures that what you do have is handled the way you want.
Our extraordinary community of supporters make it possible for JFS to be an outstretched hand to people who need help. Those who include JFS in their wills help us care for our elders including Holocaust Survivors, offer individuals and families support to navigate financial difficulties and emotional stress, access support to move past intimate partner violence, welcome refugees and immigrants, and provide food to those of us who need it.
JFS is more than an organization. We are a community built by people like you – those who put their values into action. This isn’t about how much you have to give. It’s about knowing that your impact will continue. If you’d like to learn more, please visit our legacy giving page or reach out to Randi Abrams-Caras at rabrams-caras@jfsseattle.org or call her at 206-726-3619.
Check out our legacy planning materials to help kickstart your planning today:
- Legacy Planning Checklist
- Healthcare Directive
- Video: Estate Planning With Janet Gray
- Everyone Leaves a Legacy Presentation Slides
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