1867 Society

 

Peru State College was “born” in 1867, the same year Nebraska became a state. Nebraska’s first public institution of higher learning, the college then known as the Nebraska State Normal School focused on training teachers. Over the years the name has changed and the programs offered have broadened, yet the commitment to quality, affordable, accessible education remains the same.

The 1867 Society was created to enable Peru State alumni and friends to give back to the College through their estate plans, to ensure that future students have the same educational opportunities that the College made available to them. Society members ensure that the College continues to provide students with a sound education and a way to a better life.

There are many ways to become a member of The 1867 Society including:

• Indicating in their will that Peru State College Foundation is to receive a lump sum or a percentage of their overall estate assets or the remainder of those assets after providing for other beneficiaries

• Naming the Foundation as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy, pension or savings plan

• Transferring your home title or other real estate property to the Foundation, after death, as set forth in a will or trust document

Membership in the Society requires that the Foundation be informed about the individual’s plans to include Peru State College in estate plans; a copy of the relevant documentation is desirable.

Please join other alumni and friends who have become members of The 1867 Society. Take your place beside those who celebrate Peru State’s history of making a difference. Help ensure that the College remains strong and thrives into the future.  Click here for questions regarding your estate planning.

Contact the Foundation at 402-872-2304 or pscfoundation@peru.edu if you would like to learn more about including Peru State College Foundation in your estate plans.

Five Tips to Consider When Planning Your Retirement Savings

It is important for every individual to consider their retirement plans. Here are five easy tips for you to consider as you prepare for your future.

1.       Start saving early! Starting to save for retirement as early as possible is essential to take advantage of the power of compounding. By saving consistently over a long period, you can accumulate significant savings for retirement.

2.       Set a retirement goal! You should have a clear idea of how much you need to save for retirement, which can help you create a roadmap for your savings plan. Consider factors such as your desired lifestyle, retirement age, and estimated life expectancy.

3.       Maximize contributions to retirement accounts! Take advantage of tax-advantaged retirement accounts such as 401(k)s, IRAs, and Roth IRAs. These accounts offer tax benefits and compound growth opportunities, allowing you to grow your savings faster.

4.       Diversify your portfolio! Diversification can help reduce risk and maximize returns. Consider investing in a mix of stocks, bonds, and other assets that align with your risk tolerance and retirement goals.

5.       Monitor your progress! Regularly monitor your retirement savings progress, review your investments, and adjust your strategy as needed. This can help ensure that you are on track to meet your retirement goals.

As part of the second tip, everyone should consider what they want to do with their money upon retirement or event before. Do you want to do some of things on your bucket list? Do you want to be able to provide for your children or grandchildren? Or do you want to leave something to charity such as the Peru State College Foundation? Be sure to take this into consideration as you plan your retirement savings.

Leaving a Lasting Legacy: The Best Ways to Leave a Gift in Your Will

Planning for the future is an essential part of life, and one way to leave a lasting impact is by including charitable giving in your will. Leaving a gift in your will not only allows you to support causes close to your heart, but it also ensures your legacy continues long after you’re gone.

Here are some of the best ways to leave a gift in your will, empowering you to make a positive difference in the world.

1.       Identify Your Philanthropic Goals

Before making any decisions, take time to reflect on the causes and organizations that are meaningful to you. Consider your passions, values, and the impact you wish to create. By identifying your philanthropic goals, you can tailor your gift to support the causes you care about most.

2.       Seek Professional Guidance

Estate planning and will preparation can be complex, so it’s wise to consult with professionals such as estate attorneys or financial advisors who specialize in philanthropy. They can guide you through the legal and financial aspects of leaving a charitable gift, ensuring your intentions are properly executed and that your estate is optimized for both your loved ones and the charitable organizations you support.

3.       Choose the Right Gift

There are several ways to leave a gift in your will, each with unique advantages. Consider the following options:

a.       Specific Bequest: This involves leaving a specific dollar amount, property, or asset to a particular charity or organization. It allows you to make a targeted impact on the cause of your choice.

b.       Residual Bequest: In this type of bequest, you designate a percentage or the remainder of your estate to one or more charitable organizations after taking care of your loved ones. It ensures your gift adjusts proportionally to the size of your estate.

c.       Contingent Bequest: A contingent bequest specifies a gift will be made to a charity only in certain conditions are met, such as the passing of a primary beneficiary. It provides flexibility in case of unforeseen circumstances.

d.       Charitable Trusts: Establishing a charitable trust allows you to leave a gift while providing benefits during your lifetime. Trusts can generate income for you or your loved ones, with the remaining assets going to the charitable organization upon your passing.

4.       Communicate Your Intentions

To avoid any confusion or misinterpretation of your will, it is crucial to communicate your charitable intentions with your loved ones. Discussing your philanthropic plans with family members, heirs, and beneficiaries will help them understand your wishes and prevent potential conflicts or legal challenges in the future.

5.       Stay Updated and Review Regularly

Life circumstances change, as do your philanthropic priorities. It is essential to review and update your will periodically to ensure it accurately reflects your wishes. Stay in touch with your legal and financial advisors to address any modifications required.

Leaving a gift in your will is a powerful way to leave a lasting legacy and make a position impact on the causes you hold dear. By carefully considering your philanthropic goals, seeking professional guidance, and choosing the right gift, you can ensure that your generosity continues to benefit many in the future.