Bequest Program
A Bequest Program is a way for charitable organizations to receive gifts from donors through their wills or estate plans. It's like setting up a savings account for the organization's future, where people promise to leave money or property to the charity after they pass away. Organizations value these programs because they provide long-term financial stability. You might also hear it called "Planned Giving," "Legacy Giving," or "Estate Giving." When someone mentions working with a Bequest Program on their resume, it usually means they helped manage donor relationships and worked to secure these future donations.
Examples in Resumes
Developed and managed Bequest Program resulting in $2M in secured future gifts
Led donor outreach initiatives for Legacy Giving Program and Bequest Program
Increased Planned Giving Program and Bequest Program participation by 45% through strategic marketing campaigns
Typical job title: "Planned Giving Officers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Planned Giving Officers
Professional Associations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop a comprehensive bequest program strategy for our organization?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should cover creating marketing materials, identifying potential donors, building relationships with estate planning professionals, and implementing tracking systems for pledged gifts. They should also mention staff training and donor stewardship plans.
Q: How do you handle sensitive conversations about estate planning with donors?
Expected Answer: Look for candidates who emphasize building trust, showing empathy, maintaining confidentiality, and focusing on the donor's values and legacy rather than just the monetary aspects.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What methods have you used to track and manage bequest commitments?
Expected Answer: Candidate should discuss using donor databases, maintaining regular contact with donors, documentation procedures, and coordination with legal/financial advisors.
Q: How do you identify and cultivate potential bequest donors?
Expected Answer: Should mention analyzing donor giving history, age demographics, loyalty to organization, wealth screening, and creating targeted communication strategies.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a bequest program and why is it important for non-profits?
Expected Answer: Should explain that bequests are gifts left in wills, their importance for long-term funding, and basic understanding of how these programs support organizational sustainability.
Q: What are the different types of planned gifts?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic types like bequests in wills, life insurance designations, retirement account beneficiaries, and simple charitable trusts.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of planned giving concepts
- Donor database management
- Communication with donors
- Marketing material development
Mid (2-5 years)
- Donor cultivation and stewardship
- Estate planning basics
- Gift agreement preparation
- Program reporting and analysis
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic program development
- Major gift solicitation
- Legal and financial knowledge
- Team leadership and training
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with donor relations or fundraising
- Lack of understanding about estate planning basics
- Poor communication or interpersonal skills
- No knowledge of charitable giving tax implications
- Uncomfortable discussing sensitive topics
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