Middle-Class Philanthropy: Honoring Legacies, Building Futures

Middle-Class Philanthropy: Honoring Legacies, Building Futures 

By Melinda Gustafson Gervasi

January 16, 2026

Mid-January our nation pauses to reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. At this time we are often reminded of his powerful question:  "Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?'" It is a question that challenges us all to look beyond our own immediate circumstances and consider our impact on the wider community. His questions leads us to the concept of philanthropy.

For many, the word "philanthropy" conjures images of billionaires and grand foundations. We think of monumental donations and famous names. But what if I told you that true philanthropy is not just for the ultra-wealthy? What if every single one of us has the power to leave a meaningful legacy that uplifts communities and furthers causes we deeply believe in?  That is precisely the message of my book, Middle Class Philanthropist: How Anyone Can Leave a Legacy, written back in 2013. A decade later, its core principle remains more relevant than ever: you don't need a king's fortune to make a lasting difference.

The biggest hurdle for many aspiring philanthropists is the misconception that their contribution will not be significant. This couldn't be further from the truth. Non-profit organizations, schools, churches, and community groups rely on support at all levels. Often, it is the consistent, smaller contributions that form the bedrock of their operations, allowing them to pursue their missions day in and day out.

Imagine the collective power if every "middle-class" American decided to designate even a small percentage of their estate to a cause they care about. The impact would be monumental, fueling change and supporting vital services across the nation.

Your Legacy of Impact: It Starts with a Plan

Estate planning is more than dividing assets. It defines your values and extends your influence into the future. Making an estate plan ensures that the principles you live by continue to make a difference long after you're gone.

Becoming a "Middle Class Philanthropist" is easier than you might think.  Here are four ways you can leave a legacy:

• The Specific Bequest: This is the most straightforward method. You can designate a specific dollar amount or a particular asset (like shares of stock) to a charity in your will. For example, "I give and bequeath $5,000 to [Name of Local Food Bank]." This is a powerful way to provide direct support to an organization whose mission resonates with you.
• The Percentage Bequest: This method allows your charitable gift to grow (or shrink) proportionally with your estate. You can designate a percentage of your total estate, or a percentage of your "residuary estate" (what's left after specific gifts and debts are paid), to one or more charities. For example, "I give 5% of my residuary estate to [Name of Environmental Group]." This is an excellent way to ensure your charitable giving is always in line with your overall financial picture.
• Beneficiary Designations on Accounts: Did you know you can name a charity as a beneficiary on certain assets like retirement accounts (IRAs, 401ks) or life insurance policies? This is often a very tax-efficient way to give, as these assets can bypass probate entirely and go directly to the charity. It’s as simple as filling out a form with your plan administrator.
• Donate Personal Items to a Non-Profit Thrift Store:  Clutter, we all have it to a certain extent.  Most likely your loved ones want to inherit a few, meaningful items from your home.  Jewelry perhaps or holiday decorations.  The question then becomes, what to do with the rest.  My simple answer is to donate unwanted personal possessions to a thrift store associated with a non-profit you support.  In our home that entity is the Dane County Humane Society Thrift Store.  Proceeds from sales support animal rescue in our area, and it is a long standing favorite nonprofit of my family.  In the end, what isn’t meaningful to my heirs should be donated for re-sale. 

Selecting Your Legacy Partner: Where Will Your Impact Land?

The final, and perhaps most enjoyable, step is choosing the organization(s) that will carry forward your legacy. Think about:

• Causes close to your heart: Is it animal welfare, education, civil rights, arts, medical research, or supporting local families?
• Local vs. National: Do you want to impact your immediate community or contribute to a broader movement?
• Mission Alignment: Research their work. Do their values and actions align with yours?
• Transparency: Reputable charities are transparent about how they use donations. Check their annual reports or sites like Charity Navigator.

Dr. King's dream was one of equality, justice, and community. By taking proactive steps in your estate planning, you can contribute to that dream in your own unique way. You can ensure that your values live on, supporting the causes and communities you cherish. Do not let the myth of "big philanthropy" prevent you from leaving your mark. Every legacy, no matter the size, helps build a better future.

Image by M. Gustafson Gervasi, 2026

Note - a blog is not legal advice; it is meant to spark thought and reflection.  Please consult an attorney in your state for advice specific to your situation.  If you found this article helpful, consider donating to "buy me a coffee" in the upper right corner of the blog, or share this on your favorite social media platform.  Be well, and thanks for reading!