Real stories of those who have left a gift in their will
Gifts in wills, or bequests, are for every day people.
Gifts can be big, or small, they just need to be meaningful to you. Whatever the size they will be gratefully received and can make such a difference to the work a charity can do into the future.
Here are some real stories from a some of our member charities.
A gift in a will to the Heart Foundation helps children in Gisborne
A gift in a will to the Heart Foundation helps children in GisborneWhen Connie Bellingham died naturally at the age of 95, she left a gift in her will to the Heart Foundation which went towards helping save lives. Read more here.
Leaving a gift for future fostered kids
In 2013 TV presenter Alistair Wilkinson fulfilled a life-long dream to become a parent when he became a permanent caregiver, a ‘Home for Life’ dad, to an 8-year old boy. Alistair says that It was the beginning of an extraordinary journey that, along the way, has included invaluable support from the charity Fostering Kids New Zealand. Read more here.
A volunteer experience leads to a bequest to the Cancer Society Wellington
Some years ago Peter Zander's wife worked as a fundraiser for the Cancer Society. Through her involvement he became aware of the many valuable services they provide. Read more here.
Leaving the gift of nature for future generations
Hōne McGregor was Forest & Bird’s Chief Executive for three years. Heading up the charity he saw, first-hand, the impact of bequests on the environment and was inspired by the supporters he met and their passion for nature in New Zealand. Read more here.
Leaving a lasting legacy for the local community in Auckland
Leaving a lasting legacy for the local community in AucklandDick and Diana Hubbard have opted to continue supporting the communities they care about beyond their lifetimes through a bequest to the Auckland Communities Foundation. Read more here.
South Head settler’s gift to Muscular Dystrophy Association
The Muscular Dystrophy Association recently received a significant bequest from the estate of the late Alexander Bruce Cochrane. Read more here.
A generous gift to the Cancer Society that will live on supporting people with cancer
Elizabeth (Betty) Tuson, aged 89, has been donating to the Cancer Society for decades. In fact, 69 times over more than 20 years, to be exact. She has also left a bequest to the organisation in her will. Read more here.
A bequest of beauty - the Shannon Butterfly collection and funds for the Auckland Museum
Ray Shannon was a war veteran and collector with a passion for exotic butterflies. In a generous move he donated his entire collection, along with funds for its preservation, to Auckland Museum in 2008. Read more here.
How bequests grew a New Zealand institution
How bequests grew a New Zealand institutionThe Cawthron Institute was established by a bequest in 1915 from Thomas Cawthron. His vision was to conduct practical and independent scientific research for the benefit of the Nelson region and New Zealand. Read more here.
How to leave a gift in your will