MISSION MATTERS Have the Tough Conversation Your Loved Ones Just May Thank You for It A 77-year-old retired Chief Facility Engineer, John has a decent IRA and some nicely appreciated securities he had wisely picked up during the internet boom. He’s been a Mason for 24 years and fully embraces charitable values. When John’s wife passed away seven years ago, he was thankful their daughter, Steph, lived nearby so they could help each other through their loss. He recently invited Steph to lunch so he could explain the adjustments he was making to his estate and legacy plans. Since she is his Power of Attorney and Executor, he wanted to make sure she understood his intentions. Throughout his life, John made his family a priority and found time to support his lodge, where he enjoys helping and donating at the annual blood drive they host. Having worked in a healthcare facility, he understands how important blood availability is to those in need. In preparation for their lunch discussion, John wrote down several important items to make sure he didn’t forget to share them with Steph:
JULY 2025
Masonic Charities Update
Notes: 1. What’s important to me? Family, Lodge, Travel, Learning new things, Leaving a legacy 2. What’s changing? Consider updating my bequest (% Charity / % Family) 3. IRA Discuss why I would give using a qualified charitable distribution 4. Insurance Policy Beneficiary Designation (Masonic Blood + Organ Donor Program) 5. Charitable Gift Annuity Appreciated Stocks - No capital gains tax & 7% payout rate
After they ordered their meals, John began the conversation. “Steph, I want to share my plans with you, so you understand what is important to me.” Relieved, Steph replied, “Dad, I appreciate that more than you know. I’d rather hear it from you now than have to figure it out someday without you to guide me through it.” Once they were finished eating, John pulled out his notes and an article he had read online before designing his plan. “I’ve been blessed with a good life, and as you know, my family and my lodge have always been important to me,” he said. “I’ve jotted down what I’m considering for my legacy to both you and my favorite charity.” After discussing his thoughts with Steph, John reviewed the tips he garnered from the article to help him make some decisions. Continued Inside (p. 3)