Heritage Society

Southeastern Guide Dogs announces the founding of our new Heritage Society, a group of caring individuals committed to ensuring the long-term stability and the continued provision of the highest quality of services by our school. Members who share our vision and mission are stepping forward, pledging lasting support through estate plans, wills, and other vehicles of generosity.

JOINING THE HERITAGE SOCIETY

Enrolling is simple. The only qualification for membership is to advise Southeastern Guide Dogs that some sort of testamentary provision has been made. The size of the planned gift does not need to be disclosed except for those individuals who would like to serve as Founders.

VEHICLES OF GENEROSITY

Charitable Bequests: Everyone needs a will to provide for the people they care about. A charitable bequest through a will or a living trust will create a lasting partnership with our school and mission.

Life-Income Gifts through a Charitable Remainder Trust or a Charitable Gift Annuity: These gifts will generate income for life for the donor at attractive rates of return and create a legacy for future generations.

Retirement Plan or IRA beneficiary designations: Name Southeastern Guide Dogs as a beneficiary of your retirement plan or IRA account.

Life Insurance Gift: Name Southeastern Guide Dogs as the owner of a paid life insurance policy or as a beneficiary under a policy.

Charitable Lead Trust: A charitable lead trust names Southeastern Guide Dogs as the beneficiary of income for a specified number of years. The corpus of the trust eventually goes to other named beneficiaries, such as children or grandchildren, thereby avoiding substantial taxes.

Please speak with your financial advisor or attorney to review the specific tax benefits of your planned gift.

MEMBERSHIP LEVELS

Member: Any size legacy

Receive a distinctive Heritage Society Member pin
Receive regular school updates
Have your membership recognized in our annual report and on our website

Founder: A legacy of $100,000 or more

Name a puppy and sponsor a guide dog team*
Receive a distinctive Heritage Society Founder pin
Receive regular school updates
Have your membership recognized in our annual report and on our website
Have your leadership recognized through permanent signage in the school’s “Circle of Friends” garden

*Applies to irrevocable planned gifts

To learn more, please email Andy Kramer, Director of Development, or call 941.729.5665 x 119.