George Hermann Society

The George Hermann Society, Hermann Park Conservancy's planned giving society, was established to recognize donors who have provided for the future of the organization through bequests or life income gifts. Through the George Hermann Society, we are pleased to acknowledge donors who have included Hermann Park Conservancy in their wills or personal trusts, created charitable remainder trusts, or made gifts to the Conservancy of life insurance or retirement funds.

In thanks for their support, George Hermann Society members are recognized in the Conservancy's newsletter, Parkside, and annual report.

Planned Giving

There are several types of legacy gifts, including bequests and charitable remainder trusts, that you may wish to consider. With foresight and careful planning, you can ensure that your legacy will include supporting Hermann Park for years to come.

Bequests

One of the easiest and most common ways to make a gift to the Conservancy is through a bequest in your will. Bequests work particularly well for supporters who are unable to make an immediate gift, but would like to commit a legacy gift to Hermann Park Conservancy now for future use.

There are two basic types of bequests:
1. Specific bequest. A fixed amount of money, stock, bonds, or other property is designated for Hermann Park Conservancy.
2. Residuary bequest. Once all other specific gifts have been distributed, Hermann Park Conservancy receives the remainder (or a portion of the remainder) of your estate.

The assets you will to Hermann Park Conservancy are deductible for estate tax purposes. 

Charitable Remainder Trusts (suggested minimum contribution: $100,000)

If you wish to contribute a significant sum of money or property in return for income at a rate you determine, you may want to consider a charitable remainder trust. Charitable remainder annuity trusts pay a fixed amount based on the initial fair market value of the gift. Charitable remainder unitrusts pay a percentage of the trust's fair market value as valued annually. Both types of trusts allow you to choose the rate you want (within limits), receive a partial tax deduction, avoid capital gains tax up front on appreciated securities, and enjoy other tax advantages.

Have a question about planned giving? Please call 713-524-5876 extension 339 or email us at development@hermannpark.org.