By Katie Patrick
If you’ve recently experienced the intense heat and storms sweeping through southern and eastern Nebraska, you might be reflecting on the transient nature of our lives and the importance of planning for the future – or more likely, you’re dealing with tree limbs and spoiled food having gone too long without electricity. In any case, last week, as I navigated through the strong winds and a downpour on my way to our office in Hastings, my own thoughts turned to the need for preparedness. The chaotic weather was a reminder of how life can change in an instant and underscored the importance of planning for the future.
As I took shelter at an auto shop in Grafton, I couldn’t help but think about the encounter I had witnessed earlier in the day. Amidst the sweltering heat, with a heat index above 100 degrees, I saw two of our homeless clients on the sidewalk, struggling to keep cool. One man, despite his own limited resources, was sharing a few quarters with the other. This simple act of generosity highlighted a biblical truth that resonates deeply with our call to stewardship.
In Mark 12:42-44, Jesus tells the story of a poor widow who gave two small coins to the temple treasury. While others gave large sums from their abundance, her modest offering was valued more because it represented all she had. This passage teaches us about the value of giving from our heart, regardless of the size of the gift. It’s not the quantity but the spirit of generosity that counts. This lesson is crucial as we consider our own contributions and the legacy we leave behind.
August is National Make-A-Will Month, a perfect time to think about how we can make a lasting impact. Creating a will ensures that our assets are distributed according to our wishes, providing stability for our loved ones and supporting the causes we care about. At Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS), we are deeply committed to providing essential services and fostering sustainable change in our community. By making a will, you not only secure your family’s future but also create a legacy of hope and support for those in need.
Making a will doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In fact, it can be accomplished in as little as 20 minutes using resources like FreeWill.com, which offers a simple and free way to create a will online. This platform allows you to plan for your estate while also considering charitable contributions that can benefit CSS and other organizations close to your heart. A legacy gift, which costs nothing today, can significantly impact our community by funding essential programs and services for years to come.
Moreover, connecting with The Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska can enhance your estate planning experience and impact. The Catholic Foundation specializes in legacy planning, estate planning, and charitable wealth transfer. It works closely with donors to create tailored plans that maximize the impact of their gifts. Whether you are looking to support CSS or other Catholic and non-Catholic charities, the Foundation provides expert guidance to ensure your philanthropic goals are met.
The Catholic Foundation’s approach is centered on building meaningful relationships with donors. It aims to understand your values and objectives, helping you make informed decisions about your charitable giving. By collaborating with the Foundation, you can explore various options for including CSS in your estate plan and ensure that your contributions will have a lasting impact.
As we navigate these challenging times, it’s important to reflect on our blessings and consider how we can share them with others. The story of the widow’s offering reminds us that every contribution, no matter how small, has the power to make a difference. Your decision to create a will and include a legacy gift is a testament to your commitment to supporting the less fortunate and advancing the mission of CSS.
In conclusion, as you ponder the future and the legacy you wish to leave, remember that creating a will is an act of love and stewardship. It provides peace of mind and ensures that your values and priorities are honored. Whether through FreeWill.com or by connecting with The Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska, you have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact that reflects the teachings of Christ and supports the vital work of CSS.
Let this National Make-A-Will Month be a time of reflection and action. Take the step to create a will, support those in need, and leave a legacy of hope and compassion.
For more information visit www.csshope.org or connect with the The Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska at www.catholicgift.org.
Catholic Social Services and The Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska will host an introduction to planned giving presentation,
“The Legacy of Hope,” at CSS in Lincoln Thursday, Aug. 22, at 7 p.m. Refreshments and tours of our new facility will follow. Please join us that evening or contact John Soukup, CSS Development Officer, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (402) 560-5014, to learn more.
