It isn’t easy to talk about money but with the transfer of wealth that will happen between the generations over the next few decades, it is something that needs to be a topic of conversation.
As part of that discussion, pause for a moment and try to guess how much money will transfer to the next generation between 2020 and 2030, just in Red Willow County. And to make it a little easier, let’s make it multiple choice:
- $50 million
- $200 million
- $608 million
I’ll give you the correct answer in just a moment, but for now consider how we know this information.
The Nebraska Community Foundation has studied this Transfer of Wealth in every county across the state for decades. This research has inspired the “Five to Thrive” campaign, which encourages us all to consider how just 5% of our wealth could help our communities thrive for generations to come.
As Baby Boomers pass on their legacy, the question isn’t if their wealth will transfer — but where. The default answer is typically “to our kids” or “to my family.” And that’s understandable.
But here’s a deeper question:
Should all of it go to our kids and to our family? Is this even a good idea? Are they prepared for the changes that could happen with the inheritance? Has a conversation been had about what the parents would like to see happen?
Would it be wise — or meaningful — to consider leaving just a portion for the greater good?
While you may think “I have to leave it all to my family,” there are options.
The McCook Community Foundation Fund is here to help you explore what planned giving might look like for you, for your kids and your family.
And while MCFF may be part of the conversation, it is not about leaving a gift to the foundation but rather to any cause that reflects your values. Whether you’re passionate about education, youth, the arts, rural vitality, or helping those in need, MCFF can help you connect your resources to your passions.
We also offer tools to help you maximize tax savings and structure your giving in ways that are smart and personal.
Whether you’re wealthy or working hard to get by, 5% is 5% and it all makes an impact.
Which brings us to the answer about the transfer of wealth in Red Willow County over this decade. It will be more than $608 million that will transfer from one generation to the next. And if that next generation doesn’t live in Red Willow County or Southwest Nebraska, then those dollars leave the community, possibly forever.
If just 5% of that $608 million were left for local causes, Red Willow County would have $30 million to strengthen our future — keeping rural Nebraska a place where our kids and grandkids can thrive.
As Kathy Calvin said, “Giving is not just about making a donation. It is about making a difference.”
There are so many possibilities to explore, so many ways to make a difference today and so many ways to leave your legacy.
There’s no pressure. Just a conversation. When you're ready, reach out to me directly, to the McCook Community Foundation Fund, or — if you'd prefer more privacy — to the Nebraska Community Foundation. We are blessed in our community and we are in this together to make McCook and southwest Nebraska an even better place to call home.
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As the chairman of the McCook Community Foundation Fund, Matt Sehnert is passionate about making his hometown better for his family, friends and neighbors. Contact him at mwsehnert@gmail.com. Or reach out to MCFF at mcffund@gmail.com or Todd Mekelburg with the Nebraska Community Foundation at tmekelburg@nebcommfound.org.
