Making a bequest through a will enables you to designate a contribution while retaining full control of your assets throughout your life. You can bequeath a specific amount of money, a percentage of your estate, or specific property. Your charitable gift may also reduce taxes due on your estate. The wording of a bequest provision will vary depending on the type of gift—see examples below.

Specific bequest:

“I give to the Institute for Conservation Leadership or its successor organization [specify property or dollar amount.”

Residuary bequest:

“I give to the Institute for Conservation Leadership or its successor organization [all or a percentage] of the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate.”

Contingent bequest:

“If [primary beneficiary] does not survive me, then I give [cash, specific property or percentage of residue] to the Institute for Conservation Leadership or its successor organization.”

We encourage you to talk with your legal and tax advisors about the type of bequest that might work best for you. If you’re considering a gift restricted to a particular aspect of our work, please consult with us as well, so that we can make sure your wishes are honored.