Queenstown Community Foundation Encourages Charitable Wills This Month

The 45South Community Foundation is urging residents of Queenstown, New Zealand, to consider including charitable gifts in their wills during Wills Month. With only 6% of wills in New Zealand currently allocating funds to charity, the foundation aims to highlight the potential impact of such donations on the local community.

Wills as a Tool for Community Impact

According to Jennifer Belmont, chief executive of the foundation, “A will provides peace of mind for families, but it can also be a powerful tool for shaping the future of the place we call home.” By establishing a fund or designating a gift to 45South, individuals can contribute to lasting benefits for the community they cherish. Belmont emphasized that funds received through wills are invested, with the income generated used to support local charities and causes that resonate with the donors.

Steve Brent, chair of the foundation, and his wife, Sheena Haywood, are both committed to making a positive difference in their community. They believe that their contributions should extend beyond their lifetimes. “For us, leaving a gift in our wills to 45South Foundation is about love for this community,” they stated. “By giving through 45South, we know our legacy will remain local and responsive to the needs of future generations.” They expressed satisfaction in knowing they can continue to impact the community they love.

Encouraging Will Creation and Updates

Wills Month not only encourages charitable contributions but also serves as a reminder for individuals to create or update their wills. Many people may have not yet established a will, leaving their wishes uncertain. This initiative prompts residents to reflect on their estate planning, ensuring their desires are documented and that they can support causes they care about.

The 45South Community Foundation invites locals to learn more about its mission and the benefits of including charitable gifts in their estate plans. For additional information, visit www.45southfoundation.org.nz.