Benefits of a planned gift
Planned gifts (most commonly a donation in your will or trust) cost nothing today and allow you to have an incredible impact, which is why so many people choose to make them.
Scroll down to learn about some other exciting but less common gifts.
Popular gifts for the future
See what types of gifts many people choose to make to honor a loved one or to show what’s important in their life.
Gifts in a will or trust
Donations in your will or trust are (by far) the most popular type of planned gift. Learn more, or get help starting your will or trust – for free!
Beneficiary designations
Gifting assets not covered by your will — like 401(k) or IRA accounts — may help your heirs avoid unwanted taxes, even if you’re below the estate tax threshold.
Popular gifts for today
Many people love these donation options because they fit with their personal circumstances and financial goals.
Gifts That Pay You Back
Give assets while providing yourself or others with income for a period of time or distributions at a later date.
Stocks and Securities
Many people donate stock or mutual funds because it may help them avoid paying capital gains taxes.
Donor Advised Funds
Easily recommend grants to the Detroit Zoological Society for tax-efficient giving.
Qualified Charitable Distributions
Use your IRA to make tax-free gifts that benefit you and our mission.
Please let us know if you’ve already included the Detroit Zoological Society in your estate plans!
Letting us know is incredibly helpful to our team and ensures your gift will be used the way you want it to be.
Ignite Positive Change for Animals and Nature
When you include the Detroit Zoological Society in your estate plans, you help create meaningful connections between people, animals and the natural world so all can thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Wildlife Legacy Circle is a group of thoughtful and caring supporters who are committed to sustaining the Detroit Zoological Society for years to come. Members of the Wildlife Legacy Circle receive an invitation to an annual on-site event and receive recognition annually in Habitat Magazine. Once you notify us that you have included the Detroit Zoological Society in your estate plans, you are automatically enrolled into our legacy society, the Wildlife Legacy Circle!
Learn moreIf there is a specific area of our mission that you would like to support, please contact us to explore ways your gift can reflect your interests and address a need at the Detroit Zoological Society.
For other ways to make an impact on the Detroit Zoological Society, visit our ways to support page.
Please contact Nora Rhein at (248) 336-5725 or nrhein@dzs.org to discuss your wishes.
Yes! Gifts of any size are deeply appreciated. Many people choose to leave a percentage of their estate, which allows for flexibility in the distribution of assets at the end of your life.
Yes! Please let us know if you’d like to remain anonymous.
We’ve partnered with FreeWill to help you make a will or trust at no cost to you. You can use this to complete your plans, or you may choose to use the same tools to get your affairs in order before visiting an attorney.
Yes! You are always free to revise or update your estate plans.
Yes! FreeWill will never share your personal information without your permission.
We’re here to help you meet your goals!
Our team would be happy to speak with you in confidence about your giving goals, with no obligation.
Name: Nora Rhein
Title :Individual Philanthropy Coordinator
Phone: 248-336-5725
Email: nrhein@dzs.org
Have you already included the Detroit Zoological Society in your estate plan? Let us know