The Foundation regularly receives wonderful gifts as a bequest in the wills of great supporters.
Sometime this is done as a final substantial gift from longstanding donors of the Foundation. Other times it may be the first gift - a gift that they were unable to give during their lifetime.
Some bequests come from past grateful patients and, of course, grateful families of past patients, and some come from kind-hearted community members who simply want to ensure that the Geelong community has access to the very best in health services.
In many cases, the donor makes the Foundation aware of their intention even before they finalise their will. The reason for this is to make sure the wording is correct (including having the Foundation's ABN number in the will) and to ensure for everyone concerned there is complete clarity on where the funds should go.
Many who leave a bequest in their will wish to specify the area within our health service that they wish to support. For example, some wish their gift be applied to the Andrew Love Cancer Centre, some like to support cardiology, mental health, aged care, palliative care, or research and clinical trials. Others simply wish that the funds go to the area of greatest need.
If you are unsure of the wording, it's a good idea to contact the Foundation to clarify before seeing your solicitor. Of course, all this can be done in complete confidence and without any obligation.
The other advantage of speaking with the Foundation is for us to be able to thank you whilst you are still alive! We want to be able to thank and recognise those who are leaving a legacy on their will and discuss with them how their funds may be put best to best use and how the Foundation's independent Board ensure that your wishes are always strictly followed. You may also consider becoming a member of the Tim Malloy Society.
If you haven't yet made a will, or wish to update an existing will, it's a great time to do so. Having COVID largely dominate so much of our lives over the past 12 months or more, has made us all think about the importance of health and medical research and also has made many people consider .. and sometimes reconsider .. their legacy.
Barwon Health Foundation will be conducting Legacy Month this July where not only will you be able to hear of the amazing work done around the Barwon Health service and what you may be interested in supporting, but we will also have several prominent Geelong estate lawyers who will prepare your will for free! If you would like more details, please contact Francis Trainor, Philanthropy and Bequests Manager on 4125 8900.
