Show them you care by creating a heritage society with special events, communications.

By Alison O'carroll

And, of course, don’t forget that the very best recognition often is regular personal contact — to the extent time permits and donors allow — with your society members through letters, visits and phone calls.

When a donor makes a deferred gift to your organization, it often is the single largest, most thoughtful charitable gift in his or her lifetime. When you are remembered in his or her will, a donor has, in some respects, elevated your cause to the status of family. A fitting response by your organization is to honor the donor and express continued appreciation for his or her support. A heritage society is a great way to accomplish this. FS