CONNECTIONS
AUG 2024 VOL. 12 NO. 8
PLAN FOR THE FUTURE: WHY ESTATE PLANNING MATTERS Anyone who knows me can tell you I’m a planner. I always have a plan A, B, and sometimes even a plan C, with everything I do. You can ask my coworkers or Beth Evans even my husband, Mike, Director of Development whether I’m planning for a casual night out with friends or organizing elaborate events for New Hampshire PBS, I like things to run smoothly. But we all know, even with all the proper planning, life can get in the way and throw us a curve ball. That’s why my options allow me to handle any unexpected turn of events. This spring and summer, I’ve been out and about all over the Granite State visiting with NHPBS members. From Portsmouth to Lebanon and from Littleton to Nashua, I enjoy taking time to check in with NHPBS supporters to see if they have any questions about the station, give them the news on the latest local NHPBS show in production or ask if they need any assistance with their membership. One thing that consistently comes up is estate planning. A lot of our members think that they don’t need to have a will because they don’t own a large home or have a lot in their bank account. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. “Estate” planning encompasses your collective assets, including cash, property and your personal belongings. Even your pets are part of your estate! (ALL CREATURES GREAT AND SMALL fans, Mrs. Pumphrey wouldn’t leave Tricki Woo to just anyone, would she?) I was chatting with Lizzy Hibbard, our senior partner success strategist representative from FreeWill, and she told me, “Having a complete and current estate plan is the best way to protect
your assets, make your wishes known and – most importantly – ensure the people and causes that matter most to you are taken care of after you’re gone.” August is National Make a Will Month – the perfect time to take action. FreeWill simplifies the process with intuitive online navigation. “We make the estate planning process easy. You can create or update your last will and testament at any time,” says Hibbard. “It’s simple and 100% for free.” Talking about estate planning can be uncomfortable, but creating a will is truly an act of love. It allows you a chance to reflect on your life and the people and organizations that matter most to you. Making a will isn’t just about how much money you’re going to leave your nephew or who gets the family heirloom, it is about leaving a legacy of love and care for the people you hold dear. A will provides peace of mind for you and alleviates stress and uncertainty for your family during a difficult time. As Hibbard says, “Whether your estate is large or small, simple or complex, it’s important to plan ahead.” This summer and fall, I’ll be continuing my member visits across New Hampshire. If you’re interested in learning more about making a will, don’t hesitate to contact me directly at bevans@nhpbs.org. In the meantime, scan the QR code to the right or visit nhpbs.org/freewill to get started on your plan today. It’s a small step with a significant impact, ensuring your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are cared for.
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