Graphic: RFDS Central Operations bequests
Key Relationship Specialist Melanie Caruso helps individuals and families who are considering leaving a gift for the Flying Doctor in their will.
Q. MELANIE, YOU’VE WORKED IN VARIOUS ROLES IN THE FIELDS OF MEDICINE, ALLIED HEALTH AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR ROLE AT THE RFDS?
A. I truly love my job. I love talking with people and feel honoured when they choose to share personal stories with me. At the end of life, many people talk about their family and the things that have been meaningful for them along the journey. It’s an honour to hear their story.
Q. WHAT EXACTLY IS A ‘GIFT IN WILL’?
A. A ‘gift in Will’ is something that a person leaves to a charity of their choice when they pass away. It can be made in three ways.
A residual ‘gift in Will’ means you have chosen to leave what is left of your estate once bequests to loved ones and any outstanding payments have been made.
A percentage ‘gift in Will’ means you can nominate to leave a percentage of your total estate.
A specific ‘gift in Will’ is a specified sum of money, property, stocks or shares.
Q. IN YOUR EXPERIENCE, WHY DO PEOPLE CHOOSE TO LEAVE A GIFT?
A. The common thread is that the person is passionate about the organisation and wants to make a difference and leave a lasting legacy.
A gift to the Flying Doctor quite literally goes towards saving lives through the purchase and maintenance of our aeromedical fleet and essential medical equipment.
Quite often, people who cannot afford to give as they would like during their lifetime decide to leave a gift in their Will.
Q. WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE FOR PEOPLE CONSIDERING THIS GIVING OPTION?
A. Firstly, speak to a solicitor to ensure what you want to do is specified in your Will.
Then, discuss it with your loved ones – if they know your wishes, there is less likely to be any shock or confusion down the track.
If you feel comfortable to do so, it is also always helpful to advise the not-for-profit of your intentions. This helps the charity plan for the future with assurance they can continue their work.
If you would like to discuss ‘gifts in Wills’ or request an information booklet, please contact Key Relationship Specialist Melanie Caruso on melanie.caruso@flyingdoctor.net or (08) 8238 3323.
