Making a Bequest to ESVCF

A simple way to create a lasting legacy

An excellent way to support the mission of the Eastern Shore of Virginia Community Foundation is by including us in your will, trust, or estate plan. A charitable bequest allows your client to retain full use of their assets during their lifetime while leaving a meaningful legacy that supports the Eastern Shore for generations to come.

Common Types of Bequests

  • Specific Bequest
    A gift of a specific dollar amount or asset (e.g., $10,000 or real estate).

  • Percentage Bequest
    A gift of a fixed percentage of the estate (e.g., 10% of total assets).

  • Residual Bequest
    A gift made from the remainder of the estate after other obligations are fulfilled.

  • Contingent Bequest
    A gift that takes effect only if certain conditions are not met. For example, if a named beneficiary does not survive the donor.

Bequests are typically revocable, offering flexibility throughout the donor’s lifetime. They may be directed for general community benefit or restricted to a particular cause or type of fund. We’re happy to work with you and your client to ensure their charitable intentions are honored.

Sample Bequest Language

Here is general language that can be used or adapted by your client’s attorney:

  • Bequest of a Specific Dollar Amount - I give and bequeath the sum of $__________ to the Eastern Shore of Virginia Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Onley, Virginia (Tax ID: 20-3651144), to support its charitable mission.

  • Bequest of a Percentage of Estate - I give and bequeath _____% of my estate to the Eastern Shore of Virginia Community Foundation (Tax ID: 20-3651144), for its general charitable purposes.

  • Residual Bequest - I give and bequeath _____% of the residue of my estate to the Eastern Shore of Virginia Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization located in Onley, Virginia, (Tax ID: 20-3651144) for use at the discretion of its Board of Directors.

  • Contingent Bequest - If [primary beneficiary] does not survive me, I give [asset or amount] to the Eastern Shore of Virginia Community Foundation, to be used for charitable purposes.

Interested in a Restricted Bequest?

We encourage donors considering a specific purpose or restriction to contact us in advance. We will work with you to draft language that reflects your client’s wishes while ensuring flexibility in the future.

Suggested clause for restricted bequests:
If, in the judgment of the Board of Directors of the Eastern Shore of Virginia Community Foundation, it becomes impractical or impossible to carry out the purpose of this bequest, the Foundation may use the funds in a manner consistent with the original intent.

Let’s Connect

We welcome the opportunity to assist you and your client in crafting a meaningful and tax-wise legacy.
email: info@esvcf.org
phone: 757-789-0910