That said, when we take time to consider the different elements of estate planning and put an appropriate plan in place, we can provide a level of comfort and peace. Our choices ensure that those we love are taken care of in a way that is appropriate and in line with our personal goals.
On this journey of end-of-life planning, surrounding yourself with trusted professionals is important. Advisors such as attorneys, financial planners, tax preparers, pastors, and even funeral home directors will work with you to develop a robust plan that can give you confidence and peace of mind. These professionals can connect you with documents and tools that will place your family in the best possible position after you are gone.
When we take the time to plan well and communicate our plans clearly, we provide a meaningful gift to those we leave behind. A good plan means that there is no guessing about what your intentions might have been. It means that your dependents will get the care and attention they need once you are gone in a way that is most appropriate for their situation.
Take the necessary steps today to begin creating or updating your end-of-life plan. You will give the best gift you can give to those whom you love and care for.
Want more information? ADN partnered with Everence on a webinar about estate planning for people with a dependent family member who has disabilities. For more information on end-of-life planning, watch the webinar, "After We're Gone."
In addition to planning for the care of a dependent loved one and a smooth transition of your assets, estate planning is an excellent opportunity to remember the causes and organizations that matter most to you. Estate gifts of any size can make a huge difference to charities. Anabaptist Disabilities Network graciously accepts estate gifts from donors seeking to create a culture of belonging for everybody. If you would like to explore how a charitable gift from your estate may fit into your overall estate plan, contact us for more information.
Mitch Stutzman serves on ADN's board as vice president. He is a stewardship consultant for Everence in the Central Kansas office located in North Newton, Kansas. Mitch has a bachelor's degree in special education and taught middle school special education before becoming a part of the residence life team at Hesston College, where he further developed his passion for building a supportive and inclusive culture for individuals of all abilities. In his current work with Everence and through previous institutional advancement work, Mitch has nurtured planned giving expertise and the desire to empower donor generosity through creative giving tools. Mitch, his wife Jasmine, and their two children attend Whitestone Mennonite Church in Hesston, Kansas.
