Did You Know? August is National Make-A-Will Month
Past Matters, Summer 2026, Published 6/12/2026
Creating a will is one of the most important ways to ensure your wishes are carried forward and that the people and causes you care about are protected.
Yet surprisingly, almost 70% of Americans do not have a will or estate plan in place. National Make-A-Will Month, observed each August, serves as a reminder that estate planning is not just for the wealthy—it is an opportunity to care for the people and causes you value most, even far into the future.
A will can help you:
- Ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes
- Reduce stress and simplify the process for your loved ones
- Name guardians or caretakers when needed
- Support the organizations and causes that matter most to you
Estate planning can also include tools beyond a will, such as beneficiary designations, charitable giving plans, trusts, or Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs), depending on your goals and circumstances.
For many individuals, legacy giving offers an opportunity to continue supporting the communities and missions they value far into the future. Even a small percentage left to a nonprofit organization can create meaningful long-term impact.
As August approaches, now is a good time to review your plans and start conversations with your loved ones and trusted advisors about the future you want to prepare for.
To learn more about legacy giving and ways to support the preservation of Texas history for generations to come, please visit our Legacy Giving page.
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