The next time you meet with your estate planning attorney, it may be a good opportunity to revisit your long-term plans and consider a few important questions.

• What kind of legacy do you want to leave?
• How can your assets best support the people and causes you care about?

More and more donors are taking a thoughtful approach to these decisions. Rather than automatically passing assets to heirs, many are reflecting on what will be most meaningful and sustainable for future generations. At the same time, they are preparing children and grandchildren to manage and use that wealth wisely.

Regular conversations with your professional advisors can help ensure your plans continue to reflect your goals and values as circumstances change.

Here are a few trends we are seeing:

1. Reconsidering traditional inheritances
   In some cases, heirs may choose to decline part of an inheritance, especially when it creates tax challenges or does not align with their needs. This can allow assets to be redirected in ways that better support the overall family plan. While these decisions require careful guidance, they highlight the importance of flexibility and thoughtful planning.
2. Giving with purpose, close to home
   Many donors are becoming more intentional in their charitable giving. Instead of broad or reactive donations, they are focusing on causes that reflect their values and create lasting impact. Increasingly, that means supporting organizations right here in DeKalb County, where they can see the difference their generosity makes.
3. Staying involved while planning ahead
   Donors who plan their giving often stay closely connected to the causes they support. Whether through volunteering, serving on boards, or staying informed, they remain actively engaged in their community. This hands-on involvement often goes hand in hand with long-term planning, helping ensure their giving continues to make a difference for years to come.

We welcome the opportunity to continue the conversation. If you would like to explore ways to support local nonprofits, incorporate charitable giving into your estate plan, or start a Fund with the DeKalb County Community Foundation, we are here to help. To learn more or get started, contact Executive Director Dan Templin at 815-748-5383 or dan@dekalbccf.org.

Explore all Generosity Corner articles >

Philanthropy takes many forms, and every act of generosity can make a lasting impact. Through Generosity Corner, we share ideas for giving, practical strategies to strengthen your charitable impact, and guidance on topics like tax-wise giving, legacy planning, and family philanthropy. Whether you are working with an advisor, supporting causes you care about, or just beginning to think about your legacy, this space is here to inform and inspire.

This article is part of our Generosity Across Generations initiative, which encourages thoughtful conversations about giving, family, and the future. Together, we can build a legacy that supports both the people you love and the community we all share.