Darren Fortney, active volunteer, board member, donor advisory council member, and legacy donor at WayForward Resources, shares what inspired him to include the organization in his planned giving.

Why did you decide to make a Legacy Gift to WayForward Resources?

I’ve been a longtime supporter, advocate, and board member of WayForward Resources. Being a resident of the Middleton area for 25 years, I have seen firsthand the valuable work that we do.

Unfortunately, I anticipate that the need to help those in our community will continue long after I am gone. Giving a legacy gift was one way of ensuring that the small ripple of support that I can offer now continues long into the future. The concept of providing a lasting legacy gift to an organization that I am fully supportive of was a no-brainer for me.

What compels or inspires you most about WayForward Resources?

Being in the Good Neighbor City, I think it’s important to support all our residents and their needs, including those residing in neighboring areas of Middleton. Whether it be employment, transportation, food, childcare, or housing, they are all vital components for sustainable living and providing for a vibrant, welcoming community.

WayForward Resources supports two of those initiatives, food and housing, so I could not think of a better organization to offer my gift to. Having been involved with the organization for over a decade, I’ve seen firsthand the value of the work we do and want to see that ripple continue long into the future.

If you were talking to someone else about making a gift to WayForward Resources through their will or estate, what would you tell them?

To be honest, it was surprisingly easy. Most people, at some point in their lives, will be considering establishing a will or trust. Establishing a legacy gift is very straightforward, and most of the professionals who create such documents are well-versed in it. In my case, it was as simple as establishing a written commitment and a dollar amount in the document. It was that easy. I’m humbled to do my part, both now and well into the future.

Talk to Us About Becoming a Legacy Donor

Interested in discussing including WayForward Resources in your estate plan, or to let us know that you already have? Contact Valerie Cavanagh, Development Director, valerie@wayforwardresources.org, (608) 826-3418.