No matter what your politics, manmade or just nature taking its course, there is no question climate change is upon us. The annual Bank of America (formerly US Trust) study showed that although climate change was a top three issue for philanthropic consideration, climate change ranked barely in the top 20 of philanthropic donations.
The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970 when a United States Senator from Wisconsin organized a national demonstration to raise awareness about environmental issues. Earth Day now includes a wide range of events involving an estimated one billion people in more than 193 countries. The official Earth Day theme for 2024 is “Planet vs. Plastics”. As Earth Day approaches this year, April 22nd, it’s a time for reflection, action, and considering how we can make a positive impact on our planet. While activities such as planting trees; reducing waste; limiting single use plastic; promoting renewable energy; healthy buildings; and supporting other eco-friendly initiatives are often highlighted, there’s another way to contribute to the well-being of the Earth that you might not have considered: donating a life insurance policy to charity.
Life insurance is typically viewed as a means to provide financial security for loved ones in the event of our passing. However, it can also be a powerful tool for supporting causes that are for the greater good of all of us, including environmental conservation and sustainability efforts.
Why Donate a Life Insurance Policy?
There are several reasons why donating a life insurance policy can be an attractive option for those looking to support environmental causes:
- Leveraging Existing Assets: Many people already have life insurance policies in place that they may no longer need or can afford. By donating a policy, you can leverage an existing asset to make a significant charitable contribution which can positively impact your current financial situation.
- Tax Benefits: In many cases, donating a life insurance policy can provide tax benefits. Depending on the specifics of the policy and your tax situation, you may be eligible for a charitable deduction.*
- Legacy and Impact: By donating a life insurance policy to an environmental charity, you can leave a lasting legacy that reflects your values and commitment to protecting the planet for future generations. Your contribution can support initiatives such as reforestation, wildlife conservation, clean energy research, and more.
- Supporting Nonprofits: Charitable organizations rely on donations to fund their operations and carry out their missions. By donating a life insurance policy, you can provide crucial support to environmental nonprofits, enabling them to continue their vital work in protecting and preserving the Earth’s ecosystems.
How to Donate a Life Insurance Policy
Donating a life insurance policy to charity is a straightforward process when going through Insuring A Better World Fund which is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to facilitate donations of life insurance for the benefit of other charities. From start to finish, Insuring A Better World Fund does it all so that charities and donors don’t have to. Insuring A Better World Fund pays all premiums and there is no cost to the charity you select to receive the net death benefits. Over 80% of adults 66+ years old don’t know there is an alternative to lapsing their unneeded life insurance. That is why Insuring A Better World Fund was founded by insurance professionals with many decades of experience. We have reimagined charitable gifts of life insurance. Now, your unneeded life insurance policy can become your no cost legacy. Consider donating a life insurance policy to charity as a powerful way to support environmental causes and ensure a brighter, greener future for all.
A Deloitte 2023 survey of Gen Zs and Millennials found that roughly 6 in 10 from both groups say they have felt anxious about the environment. Roughly the same percentage cite extreme weather events and wildfires as a stress driver. The majority are taking action, with 69 percent of Gen Zs and 73 percent of millennials actively trying to minimize their impact on the environment—not driving a car, avoiding fast fashion, making their homes more energy efficient, etc.
Everyone leaves this Earth and everyone leaves a Legacy. Let’s work together to leave a legacy of a sustainable Earth and ensure a better world for us all. Contact Insuring A Better World Fund at 312-819-0790 or ds@iabwf.org for more information. Happy Earth Day!