Protect What Matters Most: Celebrating Make-A-Will Month with YWCA

August 13, 2026

Promotional graphic for YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts for "Make a Will Month" in August 2026. The top section features text reading "eliminating racism, empowering women / YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts" and large bold text "MAKE A Will MONTH — AUGUST 2026 —" with an image of a hand signing a document with a pen. The middle section shows a framed photo of a smiling, diverse multi-generational family indoors. The bottom section shows a photo of another happy family alongside text that reads: "Create a Lasting Legacy that strengthens our community for future generations." Bright floral accents frame the edges of the image on a textured red-orange background.

This Make-A-Will Month, we invite you to take a simple yet profound step to protect the people, values, and causes you hold dear.

Taking the time to write or update your will is one of the most effective ways to ensure your loved ones are taken care of and that your hard-earned assets reflect your life’s priorities. Yet, despite its importance, more than half of American adults (56%) do not currently have estate planning documents in place (Source: Trust & Will, 2026 Planning Report).

Whether you are drafting your first will or updating an existing plan, Make-A-Will Month is the perfect opportunity to secure your future and honor your life’s commitments.

A well-crafted estate plan provides clarity, peace of mind, and security for those you leave behind. By putting your wishes in writing, you can:

  • Protect Your Loved Ones: Ensure your family and dependents are provided for according to your exact wishes.
  • Honor Your Personal Values: Direct your resources toward the causes and organizations that made a difference in your life.
  • Eliminate Uncertainty: Provide clear guidance for your executor and family, avoiding unnecessary stress during difficult times.

When you include YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts in your estate plans, you create a powerful legacy that strengthens our community for generations to come. Your legacy gift ensures that our vital programs continue long into the future, including offering life changing programs for women, girls, and their families, driving al systemic change through advocacy and education, and providing critical assistance and resources to those who need them most.

A legacy gift costs nothing today, but it ensures that your commitment to racial justice, gender equity, and community support lives on indefinitely.

How to Get Started
1. Reflect on Your Goals: Consider the loved ones you want to provide for and the community organizations that reflect your core values.

2. Draft or Update Your Plan: Work with an estate attorney or use a trusted online estate planning service to formalize your wishes.

3. Notify Us: If you have already included or will include YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts in your estate plans, please let us know! Sharing your intentions allows us to thank you personally, ensure your wishes are fully understood, and recognize your dedication to sustaining our mission. You can learn more about including us in your planning here. 

Thank you for standing with YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts and helping us build a future where women, girls, and families can thrive. Together, we can create a legacy of equality, safety, and empowerment for generations to come.

Posted in Featured, News / Blog