Legacy Giving
Make a Lasting Impact
Legacy gifts support the long-term financial sustainability of Cedar Lane. By contributing to the congregation in this way, your gift ensures that future generations can benefit from Cedar Lane's programs, spiritual growth opportunities, religious education, social justice work, and our facilities.
Ways to Give
There are many meaningful ways to leave a legacy gift to Cedar Lane—each one helping to ensure that our mission continues to thrive for generations to come:
Bequests in a Will or Trust
One of the simplest and most flexible ways to make a legacy gift. Include a provision in your will or trust to leave a percentage or specific amount to Cedar Lane. It’s a way to support the congregation’s future while still taking care of your loved ones.
Beneficiary Designations
Name Cedar Lane as a beneficiary of all or portion of an IRA, retirement plan, life insurance policy, donor-advised fund, or annuity. This is an easy way to leave a legacy without changing your will.
IRA Gifts During Lifetime
If you’re 70½ or older, you can make a tax-free gift directly from your IRA to Cedar Lane. This kind of gift, called a Qualified Charitable Distribution, can count toward your required minimum distribution and reduce your taxable income. You might choose to pay your pledge with a QCD or to transfer an additional amount to support Cedar Lane right now.
Donor-Advised Funds
Establish a donor-advised fund, contributing cash or appreciated securities for an immediate tax deduction while designating future grants from the DAF to the Congregation (and/or other charities).
Please consult your estate planning lawyer and financial advisor for specific information and options that would apply to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Legacy gifts support the long-term financial sustainability of Cedar Lane. By contributing to the Congregation in this way, your gift ensures that future generations can benefit from Cedar Lane’s programs, spiritual growth opportunities, religious education, social justice work, and our facilities.
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The Legacy Society is our way of recognizing individuals, anonymously or by name, who have committed to give, or have already given, a portion of their estate to Cedar Lane.
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Yes, definitely! You could name Cedar Lane as a beneficiary for all or a portion of a retirement asset like an IRA, life insurance policy, or annuity. There are a number of other methods to make a legacy gift and your financial advisor can provide you with options.
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No, legacy gifts of all sizes make a meaningful impact. Every gift ensures that Cedar Lane will continue to thrive for future generations.
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Yes, Cedar Lane has specific needs in our operational and capital budgets that would benefit from your gifts. We also have an Endowment Fund, which sets aside gifts for future needs. A conversation with Jen Morley will help clarify your options.
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Some types of gifts can provide financial benefits, including tax deductions and the flexibility to retain control over your assets during your lifetime. Additionally, other types of planned gifts, such as charitable trusts or annuities, offer you a current income stream for life, while leaving a lasting legacy to Cedar Lane after your death.
Ready to Proceed?
Next Steps
Reflect on how Cedar Lane has made a difference in your life and in the community. Talk with a family member, partner, or spouse. Discuss your options with your financial planner.
Bring questions to Jen Morley at jmorley@cedarlane.org or 301-493-8300 ext. 209. All conversations will be confidential.
When you are ready, complete the statement of intent (right) for your legacy gift.
Legacy Giving Team
If you would like to talk to a member of the Legacy Giving Team, you can reach out directly to one of them.
Find contact information in the Congregational Directory (Realm login required).
Bob Essink
Peter Fenn
Perry Seiffert
Sandy Stalzer
Paul Strella