From Gratitude to Legacy: Long-Term Donor Stewardship and Planned Giving Made Simple

Planned giving is one of the most powerful and yet misunderstood tools available to nonprofit organizations. For many small and volunteer-led nonprofits, planned giving can feel out of reach or “too sophisticated,” yet legacy gifts are often the most significant contributions an organization will ever receive.

This half-day workshop is designed for nonprofit leaders and board members who want to understand planned giving in practical, mission-centered terms and learn how to begin or strengthen a planned giving program without adding staff or complex systems. Participants will explore why planned giving matters now, how the Great Wealth Transfer is reshaping philanthropy, and which planned giving strategies are most accessible for small organizations.

The workshop will focus on the premise that successful planned giving is built on strong, long-term relationships with donors. Participants will learn practical tips for long-term stewardship strategies and how thoughtful stewardship, clear communication, and board engagement can lead to deeper relationships and potential legacy gifts. Throughout the session, real donor stories and practical examples will be shared, helping participants see how planned giving works in organizations like theirs. The workshop will conclude with concrete, achievable next steps to advance planned giving efforts and long-term stewardship strategies.

By the end of this workshop, participants will:

• Understand why long-term donor stewardship is essential to organizational sustainability
• Recognize stewardship as a shared responsibility of staff and board members
• Identify simple, low-cost stewardship practices suitable for small or all-volunteer organizations
• Understand why planned giving is critical to the long-term sustainability of their mission
• Define the Great Wealth Transfer and explain why this moment presents a unique opportunity for nonprofits of all sizes
• Identify the most common and accessible planned giving options, with a focus on bequests and other entry-level strategies appropriate for small organizations
• Recognize and articulate tax-smart giving strategies that are meaningful to donors, while understanding the appropriate role of professional advisors
• Explore practical strategies for building and maintaining strong relationships with donors and professional advisors that support successful planned giving
• Learn from real donor stories to better understand donor motivations and how legacy gifts are inspired
• Leave with 10 clear, actionable steps they can take to begin or strengthen a planned giving program and their stewardship strategy

A light lunch will be provided