
LEAVING A LEGACY: THE POWER OF A LEGACY GIFT
A legacy gift (sometimes called a "planned gift") is a planned contribution made as part of an individual’s estate planning to support a charitable organization beyond their lifetime. It is a meaningful way to leave a lasting impact on causes and institutions that reflect your values. Legacy gifts can take various forms, including bequests in a will or trust, beneficiary designations on retirement accounts or life insurance policies, charitable remainder trusts, or donor-advised funds.
BENEFITS OF A LEGACY GIFT
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Creates a Lasting Impact – Ensures ongoing support for the mission and work of organizations you care about.
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Preserves Your Values – Allows you to extend your beliefs and commitments to future generations.
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Maximizes Financial Planning – Can provide tax benefits for your estate and heirs.
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Flexible and Customizable – You can structure your gift to meet both personal and charitable goals.
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Requires No Immediate Financial Commitment – Many legacy gifts are arranged through estate planning, meaning they do not affect your current finances.
HOW A LEGACY GIFT IMPACTS DSF
A legacy gift to Disciples Seminary Foundation plays a vital role in shaping the future of theological education and ministry. Your generosity helps:
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Provide Scholarships – Supporting students who are pursuing theological studies and leadership roles in the church.
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Strengthen Programs – Enhancing educational initiatives that train and equip future faith leaders.
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Ensure Long-Term Sustainability – Creating a stable financial foundation that allows DSF to continue its mission for generations.
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Expand Outreach and Ministry – Enabling DSF to grow its influence and serve a broader community of learners and congregations.
HOW TO SET UP A LEGACY GIFT WITH DSF
Setting up a legacy gift with Disciples Seminary Foundation is a simple and thoughtful process:
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Determine Your Giving Method – Choose the type of planned gift that aligns with your estate and financial goals (e.g., bequest, life insurance, retirement account, or trust).
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Consult with Your Financial Advisor – Work with an estate planner or financial professional to ensure your gift is structured for maximum benefit.
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Name DSF as a Beneficiary – Update your will, trust, retirement plan, or life insurance policy to include Disciples Seminary Foundation.
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Notify DSF – While not required, informing DSF of your planned gift allows them to recognize your generosity and ensure your wishes are honored.
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Leave a Legacy – Knowing your contribution will help future generations of faith leaders, you can be assured that your values will live on.
By making a legacy gift to DSF, you ensure that the mission of theological education and faith leadership continues for years to come. Your generosity will help shape the future of the church and its leaders, leaving a lasting impact on communities and ministries worldwide.

By setting up a legacy gift with Disciples Seminary Foundation (DSF), you become a valued member of the Legacy Circle, a special group of donors committed to sustaining theological education for future generations. This distinguished circle honors those who have included DSF in their estate plans, ensuring their generosity continues to shape faith leaders beyond their lifetime. As a Legacy Circle member, you receive recognition, invitations to special events, and above all, you inspire others to give by enhancing a culture of philanthropy. Your planned gift not only secures your legacy but also strengthens DSF’s mission, providing lasting support for students and programs in theological education.
To learn more about legacy giving at Disciples Seminary Foundation (DSF), simply fill out the contact form on the DSF website. A team member will reach out to answer your questions, discuss your giving options, and help you create a plan that aligns with your values and financial goals. Taking this first step ensures your generosity leaves a lasting impact on future faith leaders and theological education.