Beth K. SchwartzIt never crossed my mind to contact someone at the Kravis Center to inform them that the organization is named as one of the beneficiaries in my will. Imagine my surprise when at a function I attended this summer, I learned that a non-related benefactor wants to hear from donors like me while we are still alive so that the organizations we have named may celebrate and recognize our intentions during our lifetime (assuming the donor wants to be known of course)!

Since the Kravis Center officially opened in late 1992, I have been an avid supporter making annual donations and attending as many functions as my wallet and time would allow. When, at age 50, I signed my Last Will and Testament, I wanted to be sure that one of my favorite organizations would receive my support posthumously.

Contacting someone at the Kravis Center about my gift never crossed my mind. Now, I wonder if others I know, who have completed their wills, thought to share their intent with the non-related benefactors named in their wills. So far, the answer has been the same for all I've asked—none thought to inform the organization(s). But just like with me, the moment each of these donors shared with their benefactor, both parties felt awesome!

As such, my suggestion is let your non-related benefactor(s) know of your posthumous intended support. It is such a win-win situation and, as the donor, to be celebrated while still alive by your beloved organization is a very special feeling.

—Beth K. Schwartz

Let the Kravis Center know about your gifts by contacting Kravis Center's Development Department at 561.651.4230 or endowment@kravis.org.