In this episode of the First Day Podcast, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D. is joined by Christy Boysen, MA, CFRM, FCEP, the founding CEO of Apex Legacy Consulting, who has extensive experience in advising nonprofits on planned gifts. Boysen emphasized that while planned giving, such as setting up charitable remainder trusts, appears complex due to its involvement of various professionals like lawyers and financial advisors, the process can be simplified through collaborative efforts. She highlighted the benefits of planned giving not only for the donors, who can make significant tax-efficient contributions, but also for their families and the charities they choose to support.

Throughout the discussion, the need for education and engagement in planned giving was stressed as essential for overcoming the common reluctance among fundraisers. Boysen suggested that fundraisers should be proactive in learning about different planned giving vehicles and engage with donors through open-ended questions that align with their values and interests. This approach helps in uncovering opportunities for planned gifts, which are often overlooked due to the myths surrounding their complexity and the upfront effort required to understand and manage them.

Lastly, the podcast addressed the strategic importance of incorporating planned giving into overall fundraising efforts. Boysen argued that by educating both staff and donors about the simpler forms of planned giving, such as including a nonprofit as a beneficiary in wills or insurance policies, organizations can expand their support base significantly. The episode concluded with a call to action for fundraisers to adopt a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to fundraising, recognizing the potential of every donor to contribute through planned gifts, thus ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of their organizations.