Create a legacy that will echo in your community

Within many of us is a desire to serve a cause bigger than ourselves and make a difference – in our neighborhoods, in our country and around the globe. In fact, nearly a third of U.S. adults volunteer, and Americans donate billions of dollars to charity each year. To turn that philanthropy into a legacy, it pays to reflect on how you can best use your ideas, creativity, income and influence to help create your vision of a better world. Here are some ways to incorporate a unique sense of purpose into your life now – while you can see the impact of your good deeds.

Volunteer your time

Getting involved in charities and events can energize your giving strategy as you see firsthand the needs of the local and global community. Consider using a site like VolunteerMatch to find a nonprofit in search of your professional skillset.

Involve your family

Explaining your giving goals to your family can help amplify your influence. You could also try a volunteering vacation, where you and your family can spend a week in service to others via an organization like Global Volunteers.

Take stock of what matters

Live today, and prepare for tomorrow. Review what considerations and conversations might be helpful to your legacy planning, and what documents you should have in place.

View the Checklist

Be an effective donor

Define the values that drive your philanthropy, then filter appeals for impulse giving by asking "is this the legacy I want to build?" A giving plan should also include financial strategies that can help maximize your charitable gifts.

What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us. What we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.
Albert Pine
Only 31% of people with significant wealth feel they are doing enough to help others. Source: U.S. Trust 2018 study
31%
84%
84% of those with significant wealth consider giving back to be an important goal. Source: U.S. Trust 2018 study
30%
77 million Americans, 30% of the adult population, volunteer. Source: The Corporation for National and Community Service, 2017 figures

Additional insights & discoveries

The Gift of Appreciated Stock

11/23/2020
Donating appreciated equity can be a gift for both you and your favorite charity.
Estate & Giving

6 Actions That Can Build an Enduring Philanthropic Legacy

08/11/2020
Making a difference can start with how you live your everyday life.
Estate & Giving

Ideas to Take Your Generosity Further [INFOGRAPHIC]

07/27/2020
From dedicated trusts to volunteering, there are many ways to not just leave behind a legacy of generosity, but to live it.
Estate & Giving

What’s at the center of your living legacy?

Take the quiz
Grandfather teaching granddaughter how to ride a bike

Your family legacy

Fill everyday moments with extraordinary love.
Woman appearing confident with coffee and cell phone

Your career legacy

Create a lasting impression through your life’s work.

Take your generosity further

The opportunity to shape your legacy is in your hands. Make your move with the help of our team. We’ll partner with you in pursuing the kind of positive impact you’re working toward.

Contact Us
6 Hacks to Boost Your Productivity [INFOGRAPHIC]

6 Hacks to Boost Your Productivity [INFOGRAPHIC]

08/31/2020
Streamline your day with these simple suggestions.
Family & Life Events
Ensure Your Work Leaves a Lasting Impact [INFOGRAPHIC]

Ensure Your Work Leaves a Lasting Impact [INFOGRAPHIC]

08/21/2020
Your work ethic and the actions you take today can make a lasting impact on the lives of those around you.
Lifestyle & Technology
6 Ideas for Building a Lasting Career Legacy

6 Ideas for Building a Lasting Career Legacy

07/17/2020
Making your mark through your work doesn't have to take a lifetime.
Business Ownership

Sophisticated wealth management

Raymond James financial advisors may only conduct business with residents of the states and/or jurisdictions for which they are properly registered. Therefore, a response to a request for information may be delayed. Please note that not all of the investments and services mentioned are available in every state. Investors outside of the United States are subject to securities and tax regulations within their applicable jurisdictions that are not addressed on this site. Contact our office for information and availability.

Links are being provided for information purposes only. Raymond James is not affiliated with and does not endorse, authorize or sponsor any of the listed websites or their respective sponsors. Raymond James is not responsible for the content of any website or the collection or use of information regarding any website's users and/or members.

© 2021 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange / SIPC    |   Legal Disclosures   |   Privacy, Security & Account Protection   |   Terms of Use