Safeguard your family’s future while investing in God’s work at Forest Springs Ministries and our four ministry sites. We partner with Financial Planning Ministry, a nonprofit organization, to offer informative seminars on wills, trusts, and estate planning, along with document preparation services - at no out-of-pocket cost to you. This opportunity is available exclusively to friends of Forest Springs Ministries, including past and current campers, families of current campers, donors, and past and present staff. By planning wisely, you can protect your loved ones and leave a lasting impact by helping us continue our mission - to see lives transformed by the power of Jesus Christ. 

“We had a very positive experience working with FPM to prepare our estate planning. They clearly explained our options, respected our role as decision-makers, and guided us through the process with care and professionalism.” - Larry

FPM's mission is to provide quality estate planning services at no cost to you. We only ask that you consider remembering Forest Springs Ministries in your plan. Forest Springs Ministries covers the cost of this interactive workshop, and the one-on-one sessions that follow, to empower biblical stewardship. After the workshop, you will be able to schedule an appointment with FPM to begin preparing your estate plan. At the end of the process, you will have complete, notarized documentation of your wishes. Whether you are considering your first estate plan, an update to existing plans, or just want education on the matter, this workshop will provide an opportunity for you to leave a lasting impact - for your family and the ministry that you care about.

Financial Planning Ministry (FPM) is a trusted name in estate planning and planned giving. Since 1982, more than 40,000 families and individuals have benefited from their unique “stewardship through estate planning” ministry. FPM is an accredited member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), an accreditation organization dedicated to helping Christian ministries earn the public’s trust through adherence to Seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship™, which focus on board governance, financial transparency, integrity in fundraising, and proper use of charity resources.

5 Reasons the Answer is Undeniably “Yes!” 

Let’s face it: creating a will might feel like a drag, at best—overwhelming at worst. Perhaps, you’ve wondered to yourself, “Do I really need a will?” Regardless of who you are, irrespective of how much you own, the answer is still the same. Yes. Absolutely. 100 percent. You need a will. 

In fact, your will is one of the most important documents you will ever create. Why? 

1. To ensure your wishes are honored. If you don’t specify a plan, your state will create a plan for you—and it probably won’t align with your priorities and values. A will allows you to determine the next stewards of your God-given property, finances, and personal belongings. 

2. To protect and provide for your loved ones. A will is the only legal way to name guardians for your children or to set up ongoing support for any family with special needs. It’s also the only clear way to specify provisions you’d like to make for your spouse, dependents or other loved ones. 

3. To save your family from unnecessary costs and headaches. Without a will, your estate settlement process may be slow, complicated, and costly. 

4. To support the ministries you care about. Through your will, you can give in profound ways to the causes close to your heart, often in greater ways than would ever be possible during your lifetime. 

5. To grant your loved ones the gifts of peace and clarity. Clear instructions can prevent conflicts, misunderstandings, and potential legal battles among your loved ones during an already difficult time. 

Do you need a will? Yes! 

Your will paves the way to provisions, protection and peace. It’s a gift and a sacred duty that is well worth your time and attention.

Learn more about how to create a will at our free FPM workshop:

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Here are 7 key reasons to review your will: 

1. Major Family Changes: Marriage, civil union, divorce, separation, or the birth/adoption of children and grandchildren require updates to beneficiaries. 

2. Death of a Beneficiary or Executor: If a beneficiary or the personal representative (executor) named in your will passes away or becomes unable to serve, you must appoint replacements. 

3. Significant Financial Changes: A substantial increase or decrease in your estate's value—such as buying a home, selling a business, or inheriting money—warrants a review to ensure appropriate distribution. 

4. Moving to a New State or Country: Laws regarding probate, taxes, and validity of wills vary by location. A move often requires updating documents to comply with local laws. 

5. Changes in Tax Laws: Tax laws are constantly changing. A review ensures your plan minimizes tax liabilities for your estate and beneficiaries. 

6. Relationship Changes with Beneficiaries: If your relationship with a named beneficiary changes, you may need to amend who receives your assets eg are your designations still in line with your values? 

7. Outdated Fiduciaries: The person you once trusted to be your executor, trustee, or guardian for children may no longer be appropriate due to their own health issues, age, or location changes

Learn more about updating a will at our free FPM workshop:

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A revocable living trust can: 

1) Avoid the time and expense of probating the assets held in your trust when you die (cost averages 3-10% or more of estate value) 

2) Provide easier, more efficient administration of your estate by your trustee 

3) Prevent court interference after your death or in the event that you become unable to handle your own affairs while you are alive 

4) Give you and your family maximum privacy by avoiding public court processes 

5) Minimize emotional stress on your family 

6) Be changed or revoked at any time while you are alive and competent 

7) Let you keep maximum control 

8) Provide peace of mind

Learn more about the benefits of trusts at our free FPM workshop:

Click here to register

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