National Make-A-Will Month is an annual reminder to take one of the most meaningful steps you can take for the people and causes you care about most. Despite the importance of estate planning, only about 24% of U.S. adults report having a will, and many who don’t simply say they “haven’t gotten around to it yet.”

Creating or updating your will is not just about finances. It is about protecting loved ones, communicating your wishes, and creating a legacy that reflects your values.

For members and friends of the George B. Dorr (GBD) Society, it is also an opportunity to ensure that Acadia National Park remains protected, accessible, and inspiring for future generations.

Estate planning is not just for the wealthy. A will helps protect loved ones, communicate your wishes, plan for incapacity, reduce confusion, and support the people and causes that matter most to you.. Every adult can benefit from having a thoughtful plan in place. A will and related planning documents can help you:

• Provide for family and loved ones.
• Name trusted individuals to carry out your wishes.
• Plan for medical and financial decisions in case of incapacity.
• Reduce confusion and stress during difficult times.
• Support charitable organizations and causes that matter to you.

• Who do I want to provide for?
• What values and legacy do I hope to leave behind?
• Have I updated my will, beneficiary designations, and key planning documents?
• Who do I trust to carry out my wishes?

Many of Acadia’s most dedicated supporters have chosen to include Friends of Acadia in their estate plans through membership in the George B. Dorr Society.

A planned gift can be made through:

• A will or trust
• A retirement account beneficiary designation
• A life insurance policy
• Other planned giving arrangements

A legacy gift helps ensure that future generations experience the same wonder, beauty, and inspiration that Acadia National Park provides today. Your gift may support trail restoration, conservation, visitor education, wildlife protection, and other priorities that preserve Acadia for generations to come.

A planned gift is not only an investment in Acadia’s future and it reflects your personal values and your lifelong commitment to protecting this extraordinary place.

• What do I value most?
• Who do I want to protect?
• What legacy do I want to leave behind?

Whether you are creating your first will or updating documents prepared years ago, National Make-A-Will Month is the perfect time to review your plans. Contact Lisa with questions, ideas, or information at:

Lisa Horsch Clark
Vice President of Gift Planning
Friends of Acadia
43 Cottage Street, P.O. Box 45, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
207-370-4926 Direct
207-669-2152 Mobile/Text/Voice
lisahorsch@friendsofacadia.org