by Kristin Teigen
Each year, NOW and NOW Foundation receive more than $100,000 from trusts, wills, life insurance or other planned giving vehicles. To recognize the tremendous commitment of supporters who provide for our future work through their will or estate plan, NOW has created the Visionary Circle.
In addition to the satisfaction of ensuring that our mission continues for years to come, Visionary Circle members will receive special invitations to NOW events around the country as well as public recognition in the National NOW Times and in the annual National Conference program book.
The Circle was launched at NOW's 30th Anniversary Conference with strong backing from the organization's leadership. More than 80 percent of the 44-member National Board, including all four national officers, took the lead as founding members.
France was a stocker at a paper supply company in Cleveland, Ohio. At the time of his death, he earned $6.60 per hour. Although he had never been a NOW member, he listed the organization as the sole beneficiary of his company-issued life insurance policy, as well as his company profit sharing plan.
Through planned giving, a man who had few financial assets left NOW a legacy of more than $22,000. His contributions will make a real difference in our ongoing work for women's rights.
If you have included NOW in your will or other estate plan, either as a primary or alternate beneficiary, please let us know. We would be honored to include you in the Visionary Circle. Also, if you have any questions about providing for NOW's future in this way, please give us a call at 202-628-8669. Either NOW Executive Vice President Kim Gandy (ext. 126) or Development Coordinator Johanna Ettin (ext. 130) will be able to answer your questions.
June 2002 update: If you have any questions about supporting NOW, please give us a call at 202-628-8669. NOW Gift Planning Director Liz Gilchrist (ext. 112) will be able to answer your questions. Also, more information on easy and effective ways to support NOW is available on our website.