The testator simply wants to leave a sum of money to a worthy organization to help them carry on their good work.

Other times the testator wants to leave funds for a specific purpose. It could be something like a sum of money to help an organization continue a specific educational program or for a specific repair fund. No one wants to see their charitable bequest eaten up by attorney fees or administrative costs.

If establishing a foundation doesn’t make sense, is there an alternative? The simple answer is yes, and it can be found in Indiana’s strong community foundation structure.

A community foundation is a local nonprofit specifically set up to provide for the needs of the community and to help folks complete their charitable work.

For example, suppose you want to set aside money to provide a scholarship to a nursing student. They have the know-how and experience to help.

Here in Northwest Indiana, we have several outstanding local foundations including the Crown Point Community Foundation, the Legacy Foundation (Lake County’s community foundation), and Porter County Community Foundation.

So if you plan on leaving a charitable bequest and would like it to be more than a simple donation, I urge you to consider one of our fine local community foundations. Poll