Leave a legacy
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A gift in your will ensures Appalachian families have a voice for generations to come
When you include Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center in your estate plans, you create lasting change in the coalfields. Your legacy gift will provide free legal services, protect workers’ rights, and defend communities long into the future.
For over 35 years, ACLC has stood with coal miners fighting for black lung benefits, families facing environmental injustice, and communities protecting their futures. Your legacy gift ensures this critical work continues.
Why Leave a Legacy Gift?
Legacy gifts allow you to:
- Make a larger impact than might be possible during your lifetime
- Reduce estate taxes while supporting a cause you believe in
- Create a lasting memorial to your values and commitment to justice
- Provide flexible giving options that work with your financial situation
💡 Did you know? Legacy gifts of any size make a difference. Whether it’s 1% of your estate or a specific dollar amount, your gift will help protect Appalachian families for years to come.
Ways to Leave a Legacy
There are several simple ways to include ACLC in your estate plans. We recommend consulting with your attorney or financial advisor to determine which option is best for you.
Bequest in Your Will
The most common and flexible option. You can specify:
- A specific dollar amount
- A percentage of your estate
- Particular assets (stocks, property, etc.)
- The residue after other bequests
Beneficiary Designation
Name ACLC as a beneficiary of:
- Retirement accounts (IRA, 401(k))
- Life insurance policies
- Bank or brokerage accounts
Often the most tax-efficient way to give
Charitable Trust
Create a trust that provides income to you or loved ones, with the remainder going to ACLC. Options include:
- Charitable Remainder Trust
- Charitable Lead Trust
Gift of Real Estate or Assets
Donate appreciated property, stocks, or other assets:
- Avoid capital gains taxes
- Receive estate tax deduction
- Support ACLC in a meaningful way
Sample Bequest Language
If you’re working with your attorney to add ACLC to your will or trust, you can use this language as a starting point:
For a specific dollar amount:
“I give and bequeath the sum of $__________ to Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Whitesburg, Kentucky (Tax ID: 61-1401589), for its general purposes.”
For a percentage of your estate:
“I give and bequeath ___% of my estate to Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Whitesburg, Kentucky (Tax ID: 61-1401589), for its general purposes.”
For residue of your estate:
“I give and bequeath all (or ___% of) the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate to Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Whitesburg, Kentucky (Tax ID: 61-1401589), for its general purposes.”
Our Official Information for Your Estate Planning Documents:
Legal Name: Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center, Inc.
Address: 317 Main Street, Whitesburg, KY 41858
Federal Tax ID: 61-1401589
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer to make a bequest?
We strongly recommend working with an attorney to ensure your wishes are properly documented and legally binding. If you don’t have an attorney, we’re happy to provide referrals.
Can I change my mind after making a bequest?
Yes. Bequests in your will are revocable, meaning you can change or remove them at any time. Your circumstances may change, and your estate plan should reflect your current wishes.
Will my family be taken care of first?
Yes, your family’s needs come first. Legacy gifts typically come from the remainder of your estate after all other bequests are fulfilled.
Should I let ACLC know about my plans?
While not required, letting us know helps us plan for the future and allows us to thank you during your lifetime. We also invite legacy donors to join our Legacy Society. All information is kept confidential.
What if I’ve already included ACLC in my estate plans?
Thank you! Please let us know so we can recognize you as a Legacy Society member and express our gratitude. Your information will remain confidential unless you wish otherwise.
Are there tax benefits?
Yes. Charitable bequests are generally deductible from your estate for federal estate tax purposes. Consult with your tax advisor about your specific situation.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Join our Legacy Society and help ensure ACLC’s work continues for generations.
Questions about legacy giving?
Caroline Rubens, Development Director
caroline@aclc.org | (606) 633-3929
