Strengthen Donor Connections

Lead With Estate Planning, Not Planned Giving

Nonprofits often ask us how they can better engage their donors in planned giving. Almost every time, the first thing they request is a seminar on planned giving. Spoiler alert: No one will show up! (Read why.)

The Problem

A seminar exclusively focused on planned giving often feels like a fundraising pitch, which can limit engagement and narrow your audience. Instead, the smarter approach is to lead with estate planning—a topic that is universally relevant and naturally opens the door to meaningful discussions about charitable giving.

Why Estate Planning Is the Best Way to Engage & Inspire Members

Broader Appeal – Every member, regardless of their financial situation or philanthropic mindset, needs an estate plan. But not everyone believes they need a planned giving strategy. By focusing on estate planning first, you engage a wider audience and provide immediate value.
A Natural Lead-In to Charitable Giving – When people understand how to protect their assets, provide for their families, and ensure their legacy, charitable giving becomes a natural next step—rather than something they feel pressured into.
Avoiding the Hard Sell – A planned giving seminar can feel like an appeal for donations, which can turn people off. But when charitable giving is positioned as a seamless extension of a well-structured estate plan, it feels like a thoughtful decision, not an obligation.
Deeper Engagement & Retention – People engage when they feel they’re receiving valuable, actionable insights about their own financial security and legacy. When they see estate planning as an essential part of their future, they become more open to incorporating charitable gifts.
Aligning with Personal Values & Legacy – Most people want their estate plan to reflect their values—whether that means caring for loved ones, supporting a cause, or both. By framing planned giving as part of a holistic estate plan, you help them make a meaningful, lasting impact.

The Key to Meaningful Conversations That Drive Action

If your nonprofit wants to strengthen member engagement while inspiring long-term support, start with estate planning. People will come for the financial guidance—and stay for the charitable impact.

Presenters

Choice of Presenters:

- Scott Janney, PhD, CFRE
- Jonathan Gudema, Esq.
- Wayne Olson, Esq.

Fees & Deliverables

Total Fee: $4,000 — this includes:

A 55-minute live presentation on Zoom; if your audience wants to stay longer, we’re happy to keep the conversation going …
A planning meeting with you or your team to assess specific needs and expectations; this includes a professionally prepared outline with over 10 title and headline options, each explained with its unique appeal and focus
Four (4) pre-written marketing emails for you to send to your audience
A professionally designed Estate Planning Brochure, customized with your logo
An “Estate Planning Checklist: 25 Things to Remember,” also branded with your logo
Private access to our online free will maker at Philanthropy.org (a custom link will be provided)

Ready-to-Go Blurbs

Here’s a sample blurb you can use to promote your presentation. We also have 15 additional variations of the headlines below, ranging from dignified and approachable to lighthearted and warm. Rest assured: nothing gloomy.

Estate Planning Made Simple: Protect What Matters Most
Secure Your Future: Essential Estate Planning Insights
Wills, Trusts & Your Legacy: What You Need to Know
Plan Today, Protect Tomorrow: Expert Estate Planning Tips
Take Control of Your Future: Estate Planning Essentials
Secure Your Legacy & Protect Your Loved Ones

BODY:

Your estate plan isn’t just about assets—it’s about ensuring your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected. Whether you’re starting from scratch or updating an existing plan, this exclusive session will provide expert guidance on wills, trusts, and essential estate planning tools.

Gain practical insights to safeguard your future, avoid costly mistakes, and take control of your financial well-being. Don’t leave your legacy to chance—join us and make informed decisions that will stand the test of time.

📅 Date: [Insert Date]
📍 Location: [Insert Location or “Virtual Session”]
💡 Speaker: [Insert Speaker Name]

🔗 Register now: [Insert Registration Link]

Copy and paste this into your promotional materials at your organization.