When it comes to planning your legacy, have you had “the talk” yet?

For Rick and Sue Detienne, it’s been about 15 years, and they’re still talking.

The Appleton couple met while attending Lawrence University.  Rick worked for Laminations and retired 11 years ago. The two began considering ways they could bless their community today and after they’re gone. Working with the Community Foundation was a natural fit for Sue, who worked at the Community Foundation for five years as program director.

“We were working on our estate planning strategy and created a donor advised fund in 2007, and shortly after that the Himebaugh Legacy Circle was created,” explained Sue. “We just have great trust in the Community Foundation for making sure that our wishes will be honored.”

The couple’s Detienne Family Fund was established to grant to several charitable organizations that have remained important to them, including SOAR Fox Cities and their church. After their lifetime, the fund will receive a gift from their estate and convert to a designated fund, which benefits those nonprofits forever. By arranging for this future gift, the Detiennes joined our Himebaugh Legacy Circle, which recognizes those who have made future plans for their favorite charitable causes through a bequest or similar deferred gift to the Foundation.

“We’re passionate about the work SOAR does in the community and all they’re doing for those with developmental disabilities,” said Rick. The couple’s son and daughter-in-law have benefited from SOAR’s services, he said. “Sue and I have talked about the possibility of something happening to the organizations we’re supporting after we’re gone. Because the Foundation knows us and the community so well, we have great confidence that it would make an excellent decision on where our funds might best be redirected.”

Have you given thought to your own legacy and how you can make a difference to a loved one, your community and your favorite charitable causes? Your Community Foundation is happy to help with your long-term charitable planning to help you make an impact on the people and projects that matter to you long after you are no longer here. The Himebaugh Legacy Circle recognizes those who have made future plans for their favorite charitable causes through a bequest or similar deferred gift to the Foundation.