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. Gifts in a Will or Estate Plan - You can make a charitable gift by designating a percentage or a specific dollar amount of your estate. This type of gift is flexible and revocable. 
  2. Gift from a Financial Account – Make a charitable donation directly from a financial or retirement account or name a charity as a beneficiary, a straightforward and tax-smart way to give.
  3. Gifts from Life Insurance - Life insurance is a powerful asset. If you are your family no longer need the proceeds of a life insurance policy, consider naming MCF as the beneficiary of your policy.
  4. Gift of land or property - Giving land or other property, including crops and livestock, can help reduce taxes supporting the charitable causes you care about. 
  5. Gift that gives back to you – Make a gift that provides guaranteed income for life, potential tax advantages, and enduring support for the causes you love. 
Jim Bennett's headshot'

We're Here to Help

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