Bequests: Gifts by will or trust. A charitable gift from your estate is a favored method of giving that enables you to achieve your financial goals, maintain control of your assets, and benefit Lifeworks. Bequests are the most common and are an easy choice.
Life Insurance: Name Lifeworks as a beneficiary or transfer ownership of a policy.
Retirement Assets: Designating Lifeworks as a beneficiary for a distribution from an IRA / Retirement account.
Real Estate or Other Tangible Assets: Designate Lifeworks to receive the proceeds from the sale of real estate, property, or tangible assets.
Benefits of Planned Giving: A gift plan can provide you with substantial tax benefits, especially when you give stock or real estate. Depending on your situation, you may save income taxes, capital gains taxes, probate expenses, and estate taxes.
There are various opportunities for Planned Giving at Lifeworks. Let’s get you started on this remarkable journey of giving back to your community while leaving a legacy that truly matters. Together, we can continue to transform lives, one gift at a time.
Complete this form to talk to a Lifeworks representative:
For the Love of JJ: Our Family’s Lifeworks Legacy
My love affair with Lifeworks began over 40 years ago when my husband Jack and I were searching for help for JJ, our young son who was diagnosed with autism. As young parents ourselves, we were distraught by the lack of programs and resources available at the time. That’s when we turned to Lifeworks, known then as SNCARC, a small organization in Norwood offering a wealth of advocacy, advice, and support.
Their help felt monumental. Lifeworks became our lifeline, and we called on them often. Over the years, as Lifeworks expanded its programs, our family benefited immensely. One unforgettable moment came when JJ, at age 14, cut the ribbon to open the Autism Support Center at Lifeworks’ Westwood location.
As JJ grew, his needs evolved, and Lifeworks was always there. At 22, they helped him transition from school to work, finding him a job and providing counseling. The family support Lifeworks offered was invaluable, and we were grateful to have help just a phone call away. Though I longed to volunteer, my full-time job prevented me from giving back at that time.
Years later, as I prepared for retirement, my focus shifted to finding adult housing options for JJ. Once again, Lifeworks was our first stop. My husband and I met with Dan and Chris (Lifeworks current President/CEO and COO, respectively) to explore possibilities, and together, we developed a five-year plan. Following their advice, we purchased a condo in Norwood Center and introduced JJ to it—though he was initially reluctant to leave our family home.
Through Lifeworks’ Individual Home Support (IHS) program, JJ began socializing with others living independently. In the meantime, we rented his condo at an affordable rate to another person served by Lifeworks in need of housing. It was incredibly rewarding. By the end of the five years, JJ, encouraged by his new friends, was ready to move into his own condo.
After retiring, I joined the Lifeworks Board of Directors and began volunteering. I gained a deeper understanding of the organization, witnessing firsthand the dedication of its staff and administration. My admiration for their work only grew, and my husband and I knew we wanted to contribute more.
We revised our wills, ma
king Lifeworks the beneficiary of JJ’s condo and trust fund. I was initially nervous about how our daughter might react, but her response was immediate and supportive: “Of course. They’re the ones who have taken care of JJ all these years. That’s great—it makes perfect sense.”
Her words affirmed what we already knew in our hearts: this decision was the right one. We may not be here to see it, but we have peace of mind knowing our gift will help carry forward the vital support Lifeworks provides.
Lifeworks has been our steadfast partner through every stage of JJ’s life. Now, as senior citizens, we lean on them more than ever. We stand on the shoulders of the parents who dreamed and founded Lifeworks, and it’s our turn to carry it forward for future generations. Through planned giving, we’re ensuring Lifeworks thrives for children and families yet to come.
It makes sense. And it feels great.
Jane McClellan
If you have already included Lifeworks in your giving plan, click here to download the Planned Giving Intention form.
We are happy to answer any questions you may have. To help, here are the answers to the most frequently questions and/or concerns about planned giving.
Why Lifeworks?
- Lifeworks Impact: Lifeworks has a proven track record of making a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities. By supporting Lifeworks through a planned gift, you contribute to the continuation of their impactful programs and services, ensuring that they can reach and empower more people in the future.
- Commitment to Values: Lifeworks is dedicated to upholding a set of core values that prioritize inclusivity, dignity, and empowerment. Your planned gift helps sustain these values and reinforces the commitment to creating a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can live their best life.
- Vision for the Future: By including Lifeworks in your estate plans, you become a crucial part of the organization’s vision for the future. Your support helps Lifeworks adapt to evolving needs, innovate its services, and remain a leading force in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
- Legacy of Giving: A planned gift to Lifeworks allows you to leave a meaningful legacy. It’s a way to ensure that your values and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others endure beyond your lifetime. Lifeworks values and appreciates the generosity of individuals who choose to make a lasting impact through planned giving.
What is Planned Giving? Planned Giving involves thoughtful, strategic charitable contributions made during your lifetime or as part of your estate planning. It allows you to leave a lasting legacy and support causes you are passionate about.
How do I benefit from a Planned Gift? A planned gift to Lifeworks can provide you with tax benefits and the satisfaction of making a meaningful and lasting impact on those you care about, like to individuals served by Lifeworks.
What assets can I give? Planned giving allows you to contribute various assets, including cash, securities, real estate, life insurance, retirement accounts, and more. The flexibility in the types of assets you can donate allows you to choose what aligns best with your financial situation and philanthropic goals.
How does my family benefit? A planned gift to Lifeworks can benefit your family by potentially reducing estate taxes and can preserve family wealth. It also allows you to instill and pass down important values related to philanthropy.
How does Lifeworks benefit? Lifeworks benefits from planned gifts by receiving vital support for its mission and programs. These gifts enable Lifeworks to plan for the future, enhance its sustainability, and make a lasting impact on the individuals, families, and communities we serve. Planned giving ensures that Lifeworks can continue its valuable work for years to come.
Why do I need a will? Creating a will ensures your wishes are legally documented, simplifying the distribution of assets, guardianship decisions, and minimizing potential conflicts among loved ones.
How do I name Lifeworks in my will? To name Lifeworks in your will, you can include the following language:
I give (___ dollars/ __ percentage or all of the residue of my estate) to the Lifeworks, Inc., a Massachusetts charitable organization.
To make a specific bequest, please contact Lifeworks Development Office for further details and language.
How do I name Lifeworks as a beneficiary in my retirement plan or life insurance policy? To name Lifeworks as a beneficiary in your retirement plan or life insurance policy, follow these steps to ensure your gift’s intended impact:
- Review and update beneficiary designations for life insurance, retirement plans, and annuities.
- Notify beneficiaries about your intentions to safeguard your gift’s purpose.
- Optionally, share details with beneficiaries on how you’d like the gift used.
For more personalized information or to discuss specific opportunities for planned giving, feel free to contact Lifeworks directly at dgyukeri@lifeworksarc.org. Your support plays a vital role in shaping a brighter future for Lifeworks and the communities it serves.