The third week of October is recognized as National Estate Planning Awareness Week, a time to reflect on the importance of thoughtful, long-term planning for the future—not only for our families and loved ones but also for the causes we care deeply about. Scenic America invites you to consider how you can leave a lasting legacy of scenic beauty by joining Scenic America’s Planned Giving Society.

Planned giving is a unique and powerful way to support the scenic beauty of our nation for generations to come. Through estate planning, you can ensure that the natural landscapes and communities you cherish are preserved for future generations, while also making a lasting impact on Scenic America’s mission to protect and enhance the beauty of our country.

Why Join Our Planned Giving Society?

Scenic America’s Planned Giving Society provides a way for individuals to make a lasting commitment to scenic conservation. Planned gifts, such as bequests in your will, gifts of retirement assets, or life insurance policies, allow you to contribute to Scenic America’s work without affecting your financial security during your lifetime. These gifts ensure that the vital work of protecting our scenic byways, reducing billboard blight, undergrounding utility wires, and preserving natural beauty can continue long into the future.

One of our inaugural Planned Giving Society members, Ardis Wood, shares her inspiration: “I wanted to make a difference and help Scenic America in a significant way. Leaving a legacy gift to Scenic America in my estate plans was an easy and rewarding way to do just that.”

In addition to making a lasting impact, joining the Planned Giving Society offers various personal benefits, including potential tax advantages, the opportunity to honor a loved one, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re contributing to the preservation of America’s scenic beauty. For many, planned giving is also an expression of deeply held values—ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same breathtaking landscapes that we do today.

Martha Fuller Clark, inaugural Planned Giving Society member, expresses: “Scenic America’s mission resonates with me, and I want to support it beyond my lifetime. By making a planned gift, I know that the beautiful places we all love will be protected long after I’m gone.”

How to Get Involved

Becoming a member of Scenic America’s Planned Giving Society is a simple and flexible process. You can include a gift to Scenic America in your will or living trust, designate Scenic America as a beneficiary of your retirement plan or life insurance policy, or explore other planned giving options. We encourage you to consult with your financial advisor or estate planner to determine the best way to include Scenic America in your plans.

If you’re interested in learning more about our Planned Giving Society or want to speak with us about helping you make your planned giving arrangements, visit us online at scenic.org/planned-giving.

As we celebrate National Estate Planning Awareness Week, consider the impact your legacy can have on America’s scenic beauty. Join Scenic America’s Planned Giving Society today and ensure that the stunning landscapes, scenic byways, and communities we hold dear are protected for future generations.