Planned Giving & Legacy Gifts
Make a gift in your will and it will have a lasting impact, now and in the future
Leave a Lasting Legacy Through Planned Giving
When you include Tri-Lakes Cares in your will, estate or financial plans, you’re creating an impact that lives on. This is what we call Impact Giving—your planned gift ensures that families in El Paso County have food, housing, and support for years to come.
Planned gifts can take many forms, from a simple bequest in your will to gifts of stock, retirement assets, or other non-cash options. No matter the size, your legacy becomes part of a lasting safety net for our neighbors.
Our online tools can help answer questions and guide you through this process. Don’t have a will yet? You can create one in under 20 minutes using our online tool that will help you plan your estate and name Tri-Lakes Cares as a beneficiary.
Get peace of mind
Create a Free Will Today in Under 20 Minutes!
Through our partnership with FreeWill, Tri-Lakes Cares is providing you with an online platform where you can easily make a legally binding will in just 20 minutes and even leave a gift of any size to further support our cause—at no additional cost.
Thank you for supporting Tri-Lakes Cares’ mission today, which will leave an impact in the community for many years to come!
Types of Planned gifts
Explore smart, secure non-cash alternatives
Rather than a traditional cash donation, many donors are opting for smarter giving. You can donate non-cash options to Tri-Lakes Cares that not only support our mission but may also offer you a variety of tax benefits.
Explore different options such as securely donating stocks, cryptocurrency, gifts from your IRA, or making a grant from a donor-advised fund. Our fully integrated tool makes it seamless and easy.
Bequests via Will or Trust
Include Tri-Lakes Cares in your will or living trust—it’s one of the simplest ways to make a legacy gift.
Asset Giving
Make a greater impact by donating assets such as stocks, donor-advised funds (DAFs), or retirement accounts (IRA, 401k).
Cryptocurrency
Support our mission in a modern way—yes, crypto can be a planned gift. We now accept donations of Ethereum, Bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies!
Other Non-Cash Alternatives
From life insurance to charitable trusts, there are many flexible ways to align your giving with your financial goals.
We care about your future. Please consult with your tax advisor or financial professional before making decisions about Smart Giving.
Why Giving through Your Will Matters
Secure a future of compassion: Your gift helps sustain essential programs like our food pantry, housing assistance, and senior support.
Tax benefits for you and your family: Many planned giving options provide estate or income tax advantages.
Your story continues: Planned giving is a way to reflect your values and ensure they live on in your community.
Getting Started Is Simple
Create your will for free
Use our FreeWill tool to write your will in under 20 minutes.
Talk to your advisor
Consult with your attorney, financial planner, or tax professional about the best option for you.
Already included us?
Please let us know. Sharing your intentions helps us plan for the future and celebrate your generosity today.
Celebrate Others Making an Impact
Planned Giving FAQs
Is a planned gift binding?
No, most planned gifts (like a bequest in your will) can be changed if your circumstances change.
Do I need a large estate to make a planned gift?
Not at all—every gift, no matter the size, makes a lasting impact.
Will my family know about my gift?
You choose how to share your intentions. Many donors involve family members in the planning process.
Can I direct my planned gift to a specific program?
Yes. While many supporters give to Tri-Lakes Cares’ overall mission, you may choose to designate your legacy gift for a specific program—such as food assistance, housing support, or helping stock the pantry.
Will my planned gift be recognized publicly?
That’s up to you. We love celebrating our legacy donors and may acknowledge your generosity in our annual report or recognition materials. However, if you prefer to remain anonymous, we will fully honor your wishes.
Have a Question About Planned Giving?
I’d love to hear from you — I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.