Photo by Chris Ryan

Planned Giving

Legacy giving makes it possible for Ventura Land Trust to protect the wilderness and wildlife in the Ventura region for future generations.

Individuals use many different methods to designate Ventura Land Trust in their estate planning; what they share is a commitment to support the continued preservation and protection of the open space in Ventura County.

To learn more email Ventura Land Trust Development Department devo-ops@venturalandtrust.org or call 805-643-8044 x 1.

Watch Our Planned Giving Webinar

Are you eager to leave a lasting legacy for our community? Find out how by watching our Planned Giving Webinar featuring Channel Islands Law Group Managing Director and Senior Wealth Advisor Russ Charvonia.

BEQUESTS:

Designate Ventura Land Trust as a beneficiary in your will or trust. Making a bequest costs nothing during your lifetime and is easily revocable if your situation changes.

CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITIES:

You can guarantee a fixed income for your life (and your spouse's life) by transferring cash or appreciated securities in exchange for a charitable gift annuity. A gift annuity offers an immediate income tax deduction and income for life.

GIFT OF STOCK:

A gift of stock owned one year or longer generally offers two benefits: You receive an income tax deduction for the fair market value of the stock, and you avoid paying capital gains tax if the stock has appreciated in value.

LIFE INSURANCE:

Name Ventura Land Trust as an owner and beneficiary of your insurance policy. You can purchase a new policy or donate a policy that you currently own but no longer need.

CHARITABLE REMAINDER TRUSTS:

Fund a charitable remainder trust with cash or property and receive income from the assets for your lifetime, qualify for a charitable deduction, and reduce potential capital gains/estate taxes. Upon your death and/or that of a loved one, trust assets will be distributed to Ventura Land Trust.

GIFT OF REAL ESTATE OR LAND:

You may own a residence, vacation home, acreage, or vacant lot that has no particular conservation value, but that has appreciated over the years and therefore, selling it would mean a sizable capital gains tax. By donating such properties, you may avoid capital gains tax and may also receive a charitable deduction for the fair market value of the property.

CHARITABLE LEAD TRUSTS:

Transfer assets to a trust that makes payments to Ventura Land Trust for a specified number of years, after which time the assets are transferred to your heirs with little or no estate and gift taxes.

IRA, 401(k), OR PENSION PLAN

Retirement funds paid to your heirs at your passing may be subject to income and estate taxes, but are tax-free to Ventura Land Trust.

You can name Ventura Land Trust in your will in a number of simple ways:

  • A gift of cash, either a designated dollar amount or a percentage of your estate

  • Gifts of securities, bonds, real estate, or other property

  • As a “remainder beneficiary” to receive funds only after specific sums have been paid to individuals

  • A lifetime bequest, which is a combination of a gift or pledge now plus an estate gift later to facilitate and maximize the impact of your gift.

For more information, please contact Development Director Chris Chaleunrath at (805) 643-8044 or by email chris.chaleunrath@venturalandtrust.org.

VLT cannot provide legal or tax advice. Ask a trusted advisor attorney, financial planner, broker, or insurance agent for assistance in completing a legacy gift.

“There are so many wonderful things about living in Ventura – the unspoiled hillsides, beautiful beaches and strong sense of community. When our kids were growing up, our family shared many adventures exploring the wild lands surrounding our town. We have named the Ventura Land Trust in our trust so that future generations can experience the same joy that our children had while exploring nature.”  - The Abing Family