As 2020 recedes further in the rear-view mirror and we acclimate to the first few months of 2021, we turn our attention to the road ahead. No one can say what twists and turns await but we know for sure that the mission of the Appalachian Mountain Club continues.

AMC is grateful for the generous support of our donors who help sustain our mission to foster the protection, enjoyment and understanding of the outdoors and carry it forward for years to come. 

During this new year, you may be seeking ways of giving that preserve flexibility in case your circumstances change. We understand the priorities you have for your family and loved ones, and we know that they come first. A charitable bequest – a contribution from your estate after you are gone – can allow you to continue to support our conservation efforts while keeping your options open: you can change your charitable bequest at any time if need be.

Your charitable bequest can take many forms. The simplest is a contribution of a specific amount to AMC. Or, you may wish to consider a contingent charitable bequest which allows you to set specific conditions under which your contribution will be made (for example only if your spouse is no longer living). Perhaps a remainder charitable bequest, which provides for a contribution to AMC only after all your other heirs have been taken care of, is right for you.

Finally, if you have money in a retirement account, a contribution at the end of your lifetime can be a very tax efficient way of giving because it avoids the income tax that would be due on money left in your account when you are gone.

Your charitable contributions are a tangible way you can make a positive difference while strengthening access to the outdoors and protecting our natural resources. We’ve all experienced the joy of seeing the results of our charitable contributions. It’s remarkable, but helping others helps us regain perspective on our own circumstances and gives us a sense of accomplishment by being a part of something larger than ourselves.