"My hope would be that wills were no longer filled with such gravity"
What happens to my estate after my death? This question is often met with reservation, insecurity and fear. Yet drawing up a will is a special/unique opportunity/way to bring about a positive change in the long term. We have interviewed Ines Fastinato, donor liaison at EuroNatur, on why it is high time to free legacy donations from taboos.
Who should make a will?
For anyone who wishes to ensure that their estate is dispersed as they intended, it is essential that they make a will. Legal succession only takes direct blood relatives into account. Especially for those who have no descendants, it is important to consider what they would like to happen to their estate. If they want to leave money to organisations such as EuroNatur, they must make provisions to that effect in their will.
My hope would be that wills were no longer filled with such gravity, and that people would talk about them more openly. So much can be achieved through a will! Even though it means dealing with the fact that one's own existence is finite, the drafting of a will can be a very enriching experience
What can people achieve by making a bequest to EuroNatur?
They pass on their values and stand up for what is important to them beyond their own lifetime. That's a great opportunity to pass something on and also to give back, for example if someone found being in nature particularly inspiring or invigorating during their lifetime. Dealing with death may feel strange at first. However, I have noted a sense of liberation in those who have addressed the issue. Reflecting on what I would wish to pass on is a commitment to life itself.
When EuroNatur is the recipient of bequests, where do they go?
Bequests are a tremendous gift and a vote of confidence that we handle with great care. When someone considers us in their will to help preserve Europe's nature, that is a wonderful thing to do. If they wish to support bear projects only, for example, then we honour this wish. Bequests without purpose limitations are however advantageous, as EuroNatur can use the funds wherever they are needed most.
EuroNatur is part of the Mein Erbe tut Gutes (‘My Legacy Does Good’) initiative. What is that about?
Alongside 26 other organisations, we are dedicated to raising awareness of charitable bequests. The initiative's contacts are qualified individuals who, without trying to persuade anyone, highlight ways to do good beyond one’s own lifetime. They provide further information and contacts, no strings attached.
Interview: Katharina Grund
