A few weeks back as I was considering upcoming webinar topics, I tentatively titled one of them, “Post-Pandemic Planned Giving.”
Good thing it was tentative. In the time since anything resembling a post-pandemic world seems to be fast slipping away.
The emergence of the Delta variant has vanquished the optimism of a few weeks ago. And prompted me to evaluate my thinking on COVID-19 and Planned Giving.
Much like everything else in our lives, COVID-19 has impacted many aspects of Planned Giving. The early pandemic prompted a significant increase in wills being created or updated – likely attributed to deeper contemplation of mortality combined with people having more time on their hands.
Additionally, a study by Marts & Lundy last November found that donor interest in Planned Giving increased during the pandemic.
Clearly, COVID will continue to be a factor in Planned Giving – both in how it may influence donors’ decision-making as well as how fundraisers communicate and build relationships with potential and existing donors.
Over the next few months, I’ll revisit the topic in upcoming newsletters. Additionally, join me on Thursday, Sept. 30 at 2 pm ET, when JMT Consulting hosts my webinar, “Planned Giving In the Pandemic Era.”
I would have preferred to share my insights on Planned Giving in the post-pandemic era.
But the revised webinar better reflects reality for the foreseeable future.
You and your family have my best wishes for your health and safety.
