Leave a Lasting Legacy for the American Founding
For more than four decades, the Claremont Institute has worked to preserve and advance the principles of the American Founding through education, scholarship, and the formation of principled leaders.
By including Claremont in your estate plans, you ensure that this work endures for generations to come. A legacy gift is a meaningful way to align your lifelong convictions with a permanent impact on American civic life.
Why Include Claremont in Your Legacy?
Legacy giving allows you to support Claremont’s mission in a thoughtful and enduring way, often without affecting your current financial circumstances.
Many supporters choose to make a legacy commitment because it allows them to:
- Sustain the education of future statesmen, scholars, and leaders
- Protect the principles of ordered liberty and constitutional government
- Express long-term confidence in Claremont’s mission and leadership
- Create a personal legacy aligned with their deepest values
Legacy gifts help provide long-term stability and independence, allowing Claremont to plan boldly and responsibly for the future.
Common Ways to Make a Legacy Gift
There are many ways to include Claremont in your estate plans. The most common options include:
Bequests
A bequest through your will or living trust is the most popular and flexible way to make a legacy gift. You may choose to leave:
- A specific dollar amount
- A percentage of your estate
- The remainder of your estate after other obligations are met
Including the Claremont Institute in your will is the easiest and most popular type of legacy gift. All you need to do is fill in and share the sentence below with your attorney or estate planner: “I bequeath % of my estate or $_ to the Claremont Institute, in Claremont, CA. Claremont’s Tax ID No: 95-3443202.”
Retirement Assets
Many supporters choose to name Claremont as a beneficiary of:
- IRAs
- 401(k)s or 403(b)s
- Other qualified retirement plans
These assets can be an especially tax-efficient way to support charitable causes.
To do this, simply alert your policy or account custodian of your plans to change or add the Claremont Institute.
Other Planned Gifts
Depending on your circumstances, you may also consider:
- Beneficiary designations on life insurance policies
- Gifts of appreciated assets
- Charitable trusts or other planned arrangements
We encourage you to consult with your attorney or financial advisor when considering any planned gift.
George Washington Legacy Society
Donors who notify Claremont of their legacy intentions are invited to join the George Washington Legacy Society, which honors individuals who have chosen to invest in the long-term future of the Institute.
Membership includes:
- Recognition (with permission) in Claremont publications
- Invitations to special briefings and events
- Ongoing stewardship and engagement with Claremont’s leadership
There is no minimum gift amount, and all intentions are honored according to the donor’s wishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a legacy commitment legally binding?
No. Informing Claremont of your intentions is not legally binding and does not replace or alter your estate planning documents. You may modify your plans at any time.
Do I need to notify Claremont if I include them in my plans?
While not required, notifying us allows Claremont to:
- Ensure your gift is used as you intend
- Plan responsibly for the future
- Recognize you appropriately (if you wish)
Will my gift be kept confidential?
Absolutely. We respect each donor’s privacy and honor recognition preferences.
Does Claremont provide legal or tax advice?
No. Claremont does not provide legal, financial, or tax advice. We encourage all donors to consult with qualified professional advisors.
Contact & Disclaimer
If you are considering a legacy gift—or have already included Claremont in your plans—I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you.
Paul Bartow
Director of Major Gifts
Claremont Institute
(202) 964-2114
Conversations are always confidential and without obligation.
The Claremont Institute does not provide legal, tax, or financial advice. Information on this website is intended for educational purposes only. Please consult your attorney or financial advisor before making any charitable planning decisions.
