"Everyone wants to leave a legacy – some proof that they lived on this earth and made a difference while they were here. Some people leave an obvious legacy that affects all of us. These include people who lived decades ago like prominent politicians, scientists, inventors and historic figures including Teddy Roosevelt, Thomas Edison, Marie Curie, Pablo Picasso, Mother Teresa and Harriet Tubman. This list also includes prominent philanthropists– people like Melinda Gates, Warren Buffett and the Ford family. But the vast majority of us will not leave that type of globally recognized legacy. If we are honest, how many of the 319 million people in the U.S. or the 7.2 billion people on the planet will even be remembered 100 years from now?
Many of us, however, can leave a more modest legacy. One person doesn’t have to change the entire world to make a difference. Instead, a person can change their neighborhood, their community, or even a local, grassroots nonprofit organization. The scale might be different, but the work is equally important.
One of the very best ways to achieve a meaningful legacy is to actively engage family members and others in thoughtful and effective philanthropy during one’s lifetime." By Bruce DeBoskey
Your Community Foundation can assist you and your family with meaningful conversations about how you would like to make a difference and how you want to be remembered. It's rather easy and we can help. Call us to schedule a time to talk!
