Page 38 - Engage Spring 2024

Leaving a legacy
Hi, my name is Abbie, I am the Donations and Legacies Coordinator at Age UK Northamptonshire and have been in post for a few months now. I’m still learning the ropes and would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Supporting Age UK Northamptonshire with a legacy donation can contribute to our mission of aiding older people throughout Northamptonshire. Even modest contributions can have a significant
impact, positively transforming the lives of our clients.
There are misconceptions about legacy donations, such as the belief that the donated money doesn’t directly benefit older people. Contrary to this, all funds, including those seemingly not directed to clients, ultimately serve the same cause. For instance, funding the cost of employing staff is vital for sustaining the charity and keeping services operational. Another misconception is that establishing a legacy is a complex process. In reality, leaving a gift in your Will is more straightforward than you may think. While consulting with a legal professional is advisable, a wishes document can simplify the process.
We work with our paralegal representative Maureen Evans, who can provide assistance with this and draw up these documents with you. If you need more information, please feel free to get in touch, and we can connect you with Maureen or provide further details on legacy giving.
Lesley’s story
When Lesley’s dear friend Jeff passed away, she unexpectedly found herself named as the executor of his Will, even though she had no prior experience in such matters. Her journey into this role had its origins many years earlier when she was caring
for Jeff, and she felt there was a lack of
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support available for older people in north Northamptonshire. Motivated by this realisation, Lesley dedicated a considerable amount of time to extensive research on various charities.
During her research, Lesley initially assumed that her donations to national charities would benefit her local community. To her surprise, she discovered that this was not always the case. This revelation solidified her determination
to contribute to a local charity. Jeff,
who had battled dementia while living independently, remained a source of inspiration for Lesley, driving her to strive for empowering older individuals to maintain their independence too.
Lesley has become a strong advocate
for legacy donations to be kept local. Her particular experience has spurred her to tell her loved ones about the importance of creating a Will and making a charitable contribution to charity within that process.
Lesley’s donation on behalf of her late friend Jeff will have a huge impact on the work we do at Age UK Northamptonshire to provide support for older people in our community.
All charities welcome legacies.
Lesley’s experience has spurred her to tell her loved ones about the importance of creating a Will and making
a charitable contribution to charity within that process.
For more information on how to leave a legacy please call Abbie Leverseidge on 01604 210608 or visit our website www.ageuknorthants.org.uk