Giving Through an Estate Plan

 
 

Leave a Legacy of Light

Give Through Your Estate Plan to Shining Stars Foundation

A gift in your estate plan is one of the most meaningful ways to bring joy, hope, and unforgettable experiences to children with cancer and their families—today and for generations to come.

By including Shining Stars Foundation in your will or beneficiary designations, you ensure that our programs continue lifting spirits, building community, and creating life-changing moments long into the future.

Why Make a Legacy Gift?

A planned gift allows you to:

  • Extend your impact beyond your lifetime

  • Provide long-term stability for Shining Stars programs

  • Help children and families facing cancer experience connection, adventure, and healing

  • Potentially reduce estate taxes for your heirs

  • Make a significant gift without affecting your finances today

Your legacy becomes a part of every ski run, campfire moment, and empowering experience we create.

Simple Ways to Give Through Your Estate Plan

1. Include a Bequest in Your Will or Trust

The simplest and most flexible way to leave a legacy.

You may choose to leave:

  • A specific dollar amount

  • A percentage of your estate

  • A residual portion after other distributions

  • A specific asset (such as stocks or real estate)

Sample Bequest Language:
"I give to Shining Stars Foundation, a nonprofit organization located in Aspen, Colorado, EIN 84-1526586, the sum of $____ (or ___% of my estate, or the residue of my estate) to be used for its general charitable purposes."

2. Name Shining Stars as a Beneficiary

You can name Shining Stars Foundation as a partial or full beneficiary of:

  • A retirement account (IRA, 401(k), 403(b))

  • A life insurance policy

  • A donor-advised fund (DAF)

  • A bank or investment account (via TOD or POD designation)

This is often as simple as logging in to your account and submitting an online form.

3. Gift of Retirement Assets

IRA and other retirement assets can be highly taxed when left to individuals- when left to a nonprofit, these assets pass 100% tax-free, maximizing your impact.

4. Charitable Trusts

For donors with larger estates, charitable trusts can:

  • Provide lifetime income to you or a loved one

  • Reduce taxes

  • Support Shining Stars in the future

A financial or estate advisor can help you explore the right option.

How to Set Up Your Legacy Gift

Step 1: Choose the Gift That Fits Your Goals

Decide on the amount or asset that best reflects your vision for impact.

Step 2: Provide Your Advisor With Our Information

Legal Name: Shining Stars Foundation
EIN: 84-1526586
Address: PO Box 1308, Aspen, CO 81612
Purpose: General support (or specify a particular program)

Step 3: Let Us Know About Your Plans (Optional)

Notifying us helps ensure your wishes are honored—and gives us the chance to thank you. We’re happy to keep your gift anonymous if you prefer.

Your Legacy Will Shine for Generations

A gift in your estate plan keeps the magic of Shining Stars alive—bringing joy, confidence, and connection to thousands of children and families for years to come.

If you’d like sample language, confidential guidance, or help getting started, we’re here for you.

Thank you for considering a legacy that shines so brightly.