Planned Giving

A Legacy That Lives Beyond a Lifetime

Every person who falls in love with the Lake Erie Islands carries a story — a first sunset over the water, a quiet walk through the woods, the thrill of spotting a fox or a rare bird. These moments stay with us. They shape who we are. And for many, they spark a desire to protect these islands for generations still to come.

Planned giving is one of the most powerful ways to ensure that the places you cherish today remain vibrant, wild, and full of wonder tomorrow. By including the Lake Erie Islands Nature & Wildlife Center in your estate plans, you create a legacy that continues long after your lifetime — a gift that keeps the islands thriving for future explorers, families, and wildlife.

Why People Choose to Leave a Legacy Gift

Many supporters tell us they wish they could do more for conservation but need to preserve their resources during their lifetime. A planned gift makes that possible. It allows you to make a meaningful, lasting contribution without affecting your current financial security.

Your legacy gift becomes a promise — that nature education remains a priority, the wildlife protected, and the natural beauty of the islands preserved for all who follow.

How to Include the Nature & Wildlife Center in Your Will

Creating a legacy gift is simpler than most people expect. If you decide to include the Lake Erie Islands Nature & Wildlife Center in your will or trust, you can share the sample language below with your attorney. They can help you add a bequest to a new will or update an existing one with a codicil.

Sample Bequest Language: “I hereby give the Lake Erie Islands Nature and Wildlife Center, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization with a business address of 255 Meechen Road, Put‑in‑Bay, Ohio 43456, and a tax identification number of 27‑5017525, the sum of $_________ [or otherwise describe the gift, assets, or percentage] to be used for general purposes.”