Planned Giving

A Legacy for Portland’s Youth

In 2008, Open Meadow will celebrate 37 years of changing young lives in small, relationship-based educational programs. Community support has made it possible for Open Meadow to give struggling students the tools to thrive.

Have you ever considered what your legacy will be? Would you like to make a lasting impact that reflects your values?

By naming Open Meadow Alternative Schools in your estate plan, you can create a lasting legacy. Your bequest or other legacy gift will help us to ensure that Open Meadow is equipped to continue its rich tradition of youth advocacy into the future.

Bequests and Other Planned Gifts Make a Difference!

There are many ways for you to create a legacy for the future of Open Meadow students:

• It is easy to set up a bequest in your will or living trust. If you already have a will or living trust, you can ask your attorney to add a codicil. You can name Open Meadow Alternative Schools as a beneficiary for a percentage, set dollar amount, or even as a contingent beneficiary. Please contact our Development Office at 503.488.5184 for suggested wording.
• Did you know that retirement plan assets may be taxed at rates in excess of 70%? An extremely tax-wise way to leave a legacy is through your IRA, 401(k), 403(b), or other qualified retirement plan. All you need to do is name Open Meadow Alternative Schools as the direct beneficiary of a percentage or the entire amount of your retirement plan. This must be done through your plan administrator. Please contact our development office at 503.488.5184 for the legal description.
• There are several methods to benefit Open Meadow using life insurance. You can name Open Meadow Alternative Schools as a beneficiary or contingent beneficiary, or you can receive an income tax deduction by donating an existing policy you no longer need.
• You can even set up a trust such as a Charitable Remainder Trust that will provide you with tax benefits as well as regular fixed or variable income, and will eventually benefit Open Meadow. There are many types of trusts, some quite complicated. For more information about charitable trusts, please consult an estate-planning attorney or your tax advisor.