Protect what matters most and support cherished causes

Now's the perfect time to document your wishes

8/3/2026

A graphic with dark blue saying August is National Make-A-Will Month and Now's the perfect time to document your wishes with a pen and paper icon.

August is Make-a-Will Month—an ideal opportunity to take a meaningful step that protects your loved ones and creates a lasting legacy for the causes close to your heart.

More than half of Americans don't have a will or trust. Without one, the state—not you—decides what happens to your assets. Your thoughtful planning today can spare your family stress, confusion, and legal hurdles when the time comes.

Every adult needs a will, regardless of age or wealth. If you own a home, a car, pets, or other items of value, documenting your wishes brings comfort and clarity when it's needed most.

Creating your will is easier than you think

Myth: Creating a will is time-consuming and expensive.

Reality: It's never been more convenient or affordable. You can create a simple will using free online tools, and the Banner Health Foundation is offering a resource that may help ease your mind and protect your loved ones. Using this easy, secure tool, you can create your will and update it whenever you wish. It’s easy to use and costs you nothing. If you plan to meet with an estate planning attorney, this tool will help you to outline your wishes first, saving valuable time.

With August being National Make-a-Will Month, now is the perfect time to plan ahead so your wishes will be followed and your legacy will make a difference.

Create a legacy of healing and hope

Remembering the Banner Health Foundation in your will allows you to continue supporting exceptional patient care, medical innovation, and healing resources for generations to come. You may designate a set dollar amount or a percentage of your estate to the Banner Health Foundation, allowing you to provide for your loved ones while sustaining world-class care for our community.

Your gift can:

  • Make the most of your assets and maximize your impact
  • Provide significant financial benefits to loved ones while supporting causes you care about
  • Offer potential tax advantages for your estate
  • Join a group of forward-thinking donors whose generosity will benefit our communities for years to come

Get started

Have questions about creating your will or including the Banner Health Foundation in your estate plans? We would be honored to help you carry on your dedication to our mission. Contact Emily Leva, MSW, CAP®, Chief Development Officer for Planned Giving and Academic Delivery – Phoenix, through our contact form at https://www.bannerhealthfoundation.org/about/contact-us (in the dropdown menu, select Connect with a BHF Representative and enter in Emily Leva's name).