As the calendar turns and the promise of a fresh start fills the air, many of us naturally begin to reflect on what matters most—family, security, legacy, and the values we hope will live on long after us. The New Year is more than a symbolic reset; it’s a practical and powerful moment to take stock of our plans for the future. And there’s no better place to begin than with one of the most meaningful acts of stewardship: creating or updating your will.
A will is not only a legal document—it’s a statement of hope and intention. It ensures that the people and causes you cherish are cared for in the way you envision. Whether you’re revisiting your existing plans or creating a will for the first time, now is the time to act.
Life Changes. Your Will Should Too.
Even if you already have a will, it’s important to remember that it isn’t a “set-it-and-forget-it” document. Major life events—marriage, divorce, the birth of children or grandchildren, relocation, loss, or significant financial changes—should all trigger a review.
Ask yourself:
- Have there been important changes in my family?
- Do my beneficiaries still reflect my intentions?
- Are my executors and guardians still the right choices?
- Have my charitable priorities evolved?
Your Legacy, Your Values
A thoughtfully created will is a way of expressing your values long into the future. If charitable giving is important to you, your will can extend your impact far beyond your lifetime.
Even a modest bequest can make a profound difference to the organizations you care about, like Providence Community Health Foundation Napa Valley, ensuring that the work you believe in continues for generations.
We’re Here to Make the Process Easier
Getting started doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We’re happy to offer a comprehensive planning guide with worksheets to help you clarify your goals and simplify the process. Just click here to download it.
Have questions? Contact Jennifer McConnehey, CSPG, CFRE at 707-254-4166 or at jennifer.mconnehey@providence.org today!