How To Begin – Common Questions about Memorial Giving

Choosing charitable giving as a way to honor a loved one is a beautiful gesture. Still, many families wonder how to begin, what options are available, and how to make the process meaningful. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about memorial giving.

How do I set up a memorial donation?

In many cases, it’s as simple as choosing a nonprofit and making a gift in your loved one’s name. Most organizations provide an option online or by mail to designate a gift “in memory of” someone. If you’d like to collect donations from others, you can include that information in the obituary, service program, or on a memorial website. Some families even create a dedicated fund through the charity or a local community foundation.

What if I don’t know which charity to choose?

Start by thinking about your loved one’s life and values. What brought them joy? Did they share a passion with a friend or family member? Ask other for ideas and suggestions, you will know when you have found the right match.  Even if they didn’t have a favorite charity, you can honor their story by supporting a cause connected to their life. Families sometimes choose organizations that provided care during illness, or local groups that give back to the community they cherished. Also, you do not have to choose just one, often families provide a list of meaningful charities that were supported by their loved one. 

Do donations replace flowers at a service?

Providing a charitable donation and sending flowers are two different ways to show your support for those left behind. Many families choose to do both—flowers for the service and donations for lasting impact. When a family prefers donations instead of flowers, a simple phrase such as “in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to…” may be included in the obituary or funeral service notice to help guide friends and relatives. 

Can I set up something long-term?

To create a lasting or ongoing legacy, some families create scholarships, grants, or ongoing memorial funds that continue to grow over the years. Others organize annual volunteer days or fundraising events in their loved one’s name.  One family I know has an annual nature walk in honor of their daughter which as raised thousands of dollars for her foundation. These efforts can become cherished traditions, giving family and friends a way to come together year after year, celebrating the life of their loved one and raising funds for the cause.

Will donors know their gift is connected to my loved one?

Most charities will send an acknowledgment letter to the family, letting you know a gift was made in your loved one’s memory. This small act often brings great comfort during a difficult time. If you list a charity on an obituary or memorial service program, contact the charity and ask how best to tell others to donate in your loved one’s memory. 

Hilgenfeld’s knowledgeable staff is here to guide families through every step of honoring their loved ones. If you’re considering memorial giving, we can help you explore options that reflect your family’s wishes and create a legacy that lasts.