Leaving a Legacy with Minnesota Men’s Crew
Many alumni look for ways to support the University of Minnesota Men’s Crew that reflect both gratitude for the past and hope for the future. One meaningful option is to include Men’s Crew in your estate planning through a bequest. A bequest is a gift made through your will, trust, or beneficiary designations that supports the program in the future while allowing you full flexibility during your lifetime.
Bequests are among the simplest and most flexible forms of planned giving. They can be structured in a variety of ways, adjusted as circumstances change, and do not affect your day-to-day finances. For many alumni, this approach offers a thoughtful way to honor the role rowing played in their lives while helping ensure the long-term strength and stability of the program for future student-athletes.
Planned gifts also help build sustainable support for Minnesota Men’s Crew. Over time, these gifts contribute to the program’s endowment and operational stability, helping provide equipment, coaching continuity, and opportunities for generations of rowers yet to come.
Ways to Include Men’s Crew in Your Plans
A bequest can take many forms, including:
A specific dollar amount
A percentage of your estate
Specific assets such as stocks, retirement accounts, real estate, or other property
Gifts of cash or property are often included through a will or revocable trust, while retirement accounts, insurance policies, and investment accounts are typically updated using a beneficiary designation form provided by your financial institution. Your estate-planning attorney or financial advisor can help determine what approach best fits your personal circumstances.
When the time comes, the designated gift is transferred directly to Friends of the Minnesota Men’s Crew. These gifts are generally transferred tax-free, and your estate may receive an estate-tax charitable deduction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bequest?
A bequest is a future gift made through your will, trust, or beneficiary designation. It takes effect after your lifetime and can be updated or changed at any time.
Do I need to revise my entire estate plan to make a bequest?
Not necessarily. In many cases, a simple amendment (called a codicil) or a beneficiary designation form is all that’s required. Your attorney or advisor can guide you.
Can I change my mind later?
Yes. Bequests are fully revocable and can be adjusted as your life circumstances, financial situation, or priorities change.
What types of assets can be used for a bequest?
Common options include cash, stocks and bonds, retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and real estate. Many alumni choose assets that are already part of their long-term planning.
Are there tax benefits?
Planned gifts may reduce estate taxes and can lessen the overall tax burden on your heirs. We recommend consulting a qualified estate-planning attorney or tax professional for advice specific to your situation.
How will my gift be used?
Bequests support the long-term health of Minnesota Men’s Crew, including endowment growth and program stability. Gifts are used thoughtfully and in alignment with the organization’s mission and long-term vision.
Do I have to notify the organization if I include Men’s Crew in my plans?
No. Letting us know is entirely optional. Some alumni choose to share their intentions so we can express gratitude and ensure their wishes are clearly understood.
Learn More
If you are already reviewing your estate plan or would simply like more information, we’d be happy to connect you with additional resources. Conversations about planned giving are always confidential, low-pressure, and focused on honoring your intentions. Please reach out to our Fundraising Chair, Eric Schneider (eric.schneider@friendsofumncrew.org), with questions.
Your legacy — like rowing itself — is built over time. Thank you for considering how Minnesota Men’s Crew might be part of that story.