Authored by Dakota’s Wealth Advisor Mary Beth Cosentino, this article emphasizes the importance of legacy planning for individuals without children or family, highlighting how passions can be expressed through estate plans. It discusses the creation of well-structured trusts that honor personal values, and the necessity of having a list of vetted charities to assist clients in their decisions. A poignant example shared involves a client with early Alzheimer’s who found peace in knowing her adopted cats would be cared for through a dedicated program. Furthermore, it suggests that resources like the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia can help advisors coordinate various planned giving options, allowing clients to leave a legacy that reflects their values while offering potential tax benefits. The article encourages advisors to assist both clients with and without families in crafting meaningful plans for their legacies.
