For several years, there has been much discussion about the coming transition of wealth being upwards of $80 trillion over the next 20 years from the Baby Boomer generation. While not all of that wealth will go towards philanthropy, a significant portion will. Is your organization positioned to benefit from this major shift in philanthropy?

Here are three strategies to keep in mind as you plan for the future:

Relationships are a key ingredient to major gift fundraising. 

Building the types of relationships that lead to estate gifts can take significant time.  Connect with your donors early and often.  Learn what moves them, understand what is important to them. Make it easy for them to see how their values and interests will be honored and showcased in their giving.

Donors don’t want to “give money away,” but they do want to make a positive difference in the world.

Estate giving is about much more than money. Donors who leave estate gifts want to make a lasting impact—not just for a lifetime, but generations. Dream with your donors to envision ways their legacy can support more than a project; it can inspire something transformative.

Make the ask.

While it does happen that individuals will establish estate plans and give to organizations, even when they have never been specifically asked, it’s the exception rather than the rule. Help increase the likelihood of this happening by asking your current estate-gift donors to consider adding the gift of “their name.” By sharing, publicly, that they have included your organization in their estate, they will inspire others in their spheres of influence to give as well.

When it comes to wealth distribution, this is a unique time in history that may never occur again in the foreseeable future. Now is the time to evaluate your donor relationships and focus on donor stewardship and appreciation, particularly in regards to leaving a legacy. Don’t miss out on this season of sowing as a way to help donors realize their full power of philanthropy!