Strive for Five

Shaping Montana's Future Through Giving

In Montana, where fields stretch wide and community runs deep, we strive to build a prosperous future for our families while leaving a positive mark on our state. You don’t need to be a millionaire to create a legacy. 

By setting aside just 5% of your assets or estate, you can make a meaningful and lasting impact, ensuring your children, grandchildren, friends, and neighbors can flourish for generations to come.

Invest in the community that invested in you, because when we leave 5, our communities thrive. 

What is the Transfer of Wealth?

The “transfer of wealth” refers to the passing down of things of value — such as money, property, or investments — from one person to another. This often happens between generations, such as when parents leave their assets to their children.

In Montana, much of this wealth can leave the state when heirs, charities, or institutions are located elsewhere. That means dollars earned and built here may not continue supporting Montana communities. By striving to leave just 5% of your estate to the causes, people, or organizations you care about, you can help keep that wealth working right here in Montana forever, strengthening the places and values that matter most to you.

In 2022, we completed a study on the resources for the future of Montana, which revealed a significant opportunity: an estimated $37 billion is expected to transition between generations by 2030. This presents us with a chance to gather and plant the seeds that will help our communities thrive. 

By setting aside just 5% of this—around $1.85 billion—we could create lasting endowments that generate $83 million annually for our charitable organizations, schools, and local initiatives.

This isn’t just about the wealthy; it’s about every individual who has worked hard for their family and their community. This is about farmers, ranchers, local business owners, and community leaders. By keeping these dollars local, we can ensure a brighter tomorrow for everyone. 

Together, we can lay the foundations of a prosperous future, leaving a legacy that truly nourishes our communities for generations to come. 

Every County Can Secure Millions for Future Generations

Click on your county to see what Striving for Five can do for your community. 

Through giving, you can play a critical role in making a difference for people in Montana.
Choose a trusted partner to create a legacy.

Five Ways to Give Five

  1. Charitable Bequest – A charitable bequest is a gift made through a will. It is a flexible way to support causes you care about and provides tax benefits.
  2. Donor-Advised Fund – A donor-advised fund managed by MCF gives you an immediate tax deduction and allows you to grant funds to causes you care about.
  3. Gift of Agricultural Commodities – A charitable gift of agricultural commodities supports local organizations and provides the rancher or farmer with tax benefits.
  4. Gift of Real Estate – Transferring property ownership provides tax benefits and allows the charity to acquire a valuable asset to support its mission.
  5. Charitable Gift Annuity - A charitable gift annuity allows you to make a one-time gift of assets, like cash or stock, and, in return, MCF provides a fixed income for life. 
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We're Here to Help

For additional help, questions or comments, contact Jim Bennett, Gift & Estate Planning Director.