Leave a Legacy of Local Impact
The 1951 Society honors donors who choose to shape the future of the Waverly‑Shell Rock area through a planned or legacy gift to United Way. Named for the year the Waverly-Shell Rock Area United Way was founded, the 1951 Society celebrates individuals and families whose generosity ensures that the programs, partnerships, and community support systems built over the past 75 years will remain strong for generations to come. Members of the 1951 Society make a lasting commitment to the well‑being of Bremer & Butler County by investing in long‑term solutions that help local children, families, and older adults thrive. Their legacy gift becomes part of United Way’s enduring promise: to respond to community needs, strengthen local nonprofits, and create a more hopeful, resilient future for all.
Why Leave a Legacy Gift
For decades, the Waverly-Shell Rock Area United Way has brought our community together to meet local needs. A legacy gift helps ensure that future generations will continue to benefit from programs that strengthen education, financial stability, health, and community resilience.
Your gift costs nothing today but can make a lasting impact tomorrow.
5,000+ local residents served annually
19 funded programs
99% of donations stay local
Service throughout Bremer and Butler County communities
Popular Ways to Give
Many people love these donation options because they fit with their personal circumstances and financial goals.
Gifts in a Will or Trust
The simplest way to leave a legacy.
Beneficiary Designations
Name W-SR Area United Way as a beneficiary of:
- IRA
- 401(k)
- Life insurance policy
- Bank or investment accounts
Donor-Advised
Recommend future gifts through your DAF.
Gifts of Stocks or Securities
Potentially reduce capital gains taxes while supporting community programs.
Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)
Tax-efficient giving directly from your IRA.
Please let us know if you’ve already included us in your estate plans!
Letting us know is incredibly helpful to our team and helps to make sure your gift is used the way you want it to be.
FAQs
Thank you for learning more about planned giving. If you have additional questions, please reach out to our executive director today.
Do I need a large estate to make a legacy gift?
No. Many legacy gifts are a percentage of an estate rather than a specific dollar amount.
Can my gift remain anonymous?
Absolutely.
Can I change my plans later?
Yes, most estate gifts remain fully revocable during your lifetime.
How will my gift be used?
You may designate a purpose or allow United Way to apply the gift where community needs are greatest.
