As the calendar turns the page to August, here at the Special Education Foundation, we’re observing August as Make-A-Will Month and looking back over SEF’s 40 year history.
This is an ideal time for everyone, no matter how old you are, to think about the important reasons for you to create or update your will.
Creating a will is crucial in ensuring that your assets and wishes are respected and carried out according to your intentions.
Here are a few reasons why having a will is essential:
- Wealth Doesn’t Matter: Contrary to the misconception that only wealthy individuals need wills, everyone should have one. Regardless of wealth, a will ensures clarity and ease for your loved ones to clearly outline how you want your assets to be distributed, helping to prevent disputes among your heirs.
- Protection for Loved Ones: By specifying your wishes, you can provide financial security and peace of mind for your loved ones.
- Charitable Giving: Including charitable gifts in your will can leave a lasting impact, supporting causes that are meaningful to you beyond your lifetime.
- Minimized Delays: A will can help expedite the legal process, reducing stress and delays for your family during a difficult time.
- Guardianship for Minors: If you have children, a will allows you to appoint guardians who will care for them in your absence.
If you haven't yet made a will or if it's been a while since you reviewed your existing will, now is a great time to act. Consider contacting a legal professional who can guide you through the process and ensure your wishes are accurately documented.
By taking the time to create a will, you can provide security and clarity for your loved ones and make a meaningful difference in the charitable causes you care about.
SEF is also looking back at its 40-year history this month to recognize some of the milestones that helped us make a difference in the lives of thousands of students with disabilities in the St. Louis region.
The Special Education Foundation was established in 1984 by a group of Special School District parents and interested citizens in St. Louis County. In fact, SEF was the first education foundation created in Missouri.
In its formative years, the Foundation operated with minimal involvement from the St. Louis community. In 1997, the Foundation reorganized and expanded its community involvement through greater corporate participation on the Board of Directors.
The reorganization allowed the Foundation to form new partnerships within the St. Louis area. In 2003, the Foundation hired its first executive director, Diane Buhr.
Diane was already involved with SEF and worked for the Special School District, which made her the perfect fit for this position. At the time, SEF had an operating budget of $50,000.
In that same year, the first Dan McLaughlin Charity Golf Tournament was held at Norwood Hills Country Club, bringing together new friends and supporters of SEF. Over the years, the tournament has raised more than $5 million to support SEF’s mission of assisting students with disabilities.
Later this month, we’ll share more about SEF’s 40-year history and our impact on children who receive services from the Special School District.
