Will Planning

On average, a person works more than forty years to accumulate assets and spends ten years conserving what has been earned.  Ironically, most people do not even spend two hours to plan for the disbursement of those assets after their death. The chaos that often occurs following the death of a loved one can be burdensome. This burden can be eased, however, through proper planning. A key element of proper planning is the implementation of an estate plan. A will forms the basis of any estate plan.


A Guide to Planning Your Will and Trust
A Guide to Planning Your Will and Trust is designed to encourage you to think about how you want your assets to be distributed at death and assist you in gathering the information your attorney will need to prepare a will and trust that accomplish your goals.  To download a copy please visit - A Guide to Planning Your Will and Trust.


Brochures
What is it about the preparation of one’s personal wishes – what the Last Will and Testament really is – that Americans avoid in such resounding numbers? These two brochures examine a few possible reasons and then take a brief look at how easily a valid will can be created.  You may view these brochures at - Voice of a Legacy & Will Your Will Be Known.


Sample Bequest Language
Joe and Anna have been faithful supporters of Berry for years.  After talking it over, they decided to leave a bequest in their will. Follow this link to see their story and view sample bequest language for a variety of needs - Bequests for Scholarships.


If We Had Only Known
Berry recently received a surprise bequest of $10,000 from the estate of a woman we had never thanked. Of course, we appreciated the gift immensely. The gift revealed a gracious and generous person. Designated for scholarships, the gift will certainly help us accomplish our mission, but we feel somewhat cheated because we never had the opportunity to express to her our gratitude for such kindness. We were unable to let her know how much her gift would mean. If we had only known, we could have said, "Thank you."  So we encourage our friends to let us know when they include Berry in their estate plans. Not only can we express our appreciation, but we can also make sure they are kept up to date with all the developments occurring here at Berry.  The Berry Heritage Society was established to recognize those who include Berry in their estate plans. Members receive informational updates throughout the year and invitations to select events throughout the year.

Have you named Berry in your estate plans? If so, please contact Scott Breithaupt at sbreithaupt@berry.edu or 877-461-0039. Thank you!