Why do people like making planned gifts?
Planned gifts (most commonly a donation made in your will or trust) cost nothing today and allow you to make an incredible impact, which is why so many people choose to make them.
There are some other exciting but less common gifts — scroll down to learn more!
Meaningful gifts for the future
Explore gifts that create legacy, honor a loved ones or to reflect the values that matter most to you.
Gifts in a will or trust
Donations in your will or trust are the most popular type of planned gift to support Descanso Gardens. Learn more, or get help starting your will or trust— for free!
Beneficiary designations
Designating Descanso as a beneficiary of your 401(k) or IRA is an easy way to create a lasting impact while potentially reducing taxes for your loved ones.
Meaningful gifts for the future
Create a lasting legacy that celebrates nature, honors loved ones, and nurtures Descanso for generations to come.
Stocks and securities
Share the beauty — donating stock or mutual funds can support Descanso’s future while offering potential tax savings.
Donor Advised Funds
Recommend a grant from your donor advised fund to help Descanso Gardens thrive and inspire future generations.
Cryptocurrency
Give cryptocurrency to nurture nature — your digital assets can grow the Gardens and provide tax advantages
Qualified Charitable Distributions
Use your IRA to make a tax-free gift that helps Descanso Gardens continue connecting people with nature.
Let us know about a gift in your will or trust
Sharing your plans with us is the best way to ensure your gift is used just as you intend. It also gives us the chance to thank you for making Descanso part of your legacy.
Planned giving helps Descanso Gardens grow our mission
A gift in your will helps ensure Descanso Gardens can continue connecting people with nature and one another.
Craig gets his hands dirty in the garden and loves every minute. As one of Decanso’s tireless volunteers, he not only works to keep the garden growing but does it with love and compassion. Craig has also included Descanso Gardens in his estate. “I don’t have much,” he said, “but it is important that this place carries on because Los Angeles needs places to find solace and places for people to recharge.”
Craig H.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Legacy Society honors friends of Descanso who have included the gardens in their estate plans. By letting us know about your gift, you help us ensure your wishes are carried out and you join a community of supporters who share your love for Descanso. Members are recognized in our publications, on our digital donor wall, and are invited to special gatherings-though you may also choose to remain anonymous if you prefer.
Yes! Gifts of any size are deeply appreciated. Many people choose to leave a percentage of their estate, which scales up or down with your estate size.
Yes. We respect that some supporters prefer to keep their plans private. If you wish, your gift can remain completely anonymous. If you’d like to be part of our Legacy Society, you may also choose how you are recognized—or opt to be listed simply as “Anonymous.” Either way, your generosity will help ensure Descanso continues to flourish for future generations.
No. We’ve partnered with FreeWill to give you an easy way to create a will or trust at no cost. Many people use FreeWill to complete their plans, while others use it to get organized before meeting with an attorney, who may charge a fee to finalize documents. However you choose to proceed, including Descanso in your plans is a meaningful way to nurture the gardens for generations to come.
Yes. Your estate plans are entirely your own, and you can revise or update them at any time as you wishes change. Many supporters find comfort knowing their plans can grow and adapt along with them.
Yes! FreeWill will never share your personal information without your permission.
We’re here to help you meet your goals!
Our team would be happy to speak with you in confidence about your giving goals, with no obligation.
Already included us in your estate plan? Let us know