When people hear the word will, they often assume it is something only wealthy individuals need. In reality, a will is one of the most important documents any adult can have, regardless of age, income, or the size of their estate.
A will is about much more than money. It is about making your wishes known, protecting the people you care about, and providing clarity during one of life's most difficult moments. Whether you own a home, have retirement savings, care for children or pets, or simply want your personal belongings distributed according to your wishes, having a will ensures your voice continues to be heard.
Without a will, state law determines how your assets are distributed. While those laws provide a framework, they may not reflect your personal wishes or your family's unique circumstances. The result can be unnecessary delays, added legal expenses, and difficult decisions for loved ones who are already navigating the loss of someone they love.
Creating a will is one of the greatest gifts you can leave your family. It provides clear instructions, reduces uncertainty, and helps minimize the burden placed on those left behind. Instead of wondering what you would have wanted, your loved ones can focus on supporting one another and celebrating your life.
A will also allows you to make important decisions beyond financial assets. Parents of minor children can name guardians. You can designate who will oversee your estate and ensure treasured family heirlooms or meaningful possessions are passed on to the people you choose.
One of the biggest misconceptions about creating a will is that it is complicated or expensive. While some estate plans require legal guidance, many people can create a legally valid will quickly and at little or no cost. The most important step is simply getting started.
At Purcell Marian High School, we believe in preparing for the future - in every stage of life. That's why we've partnered with Crescendo Interactive to provide a free online will-writing resource. Through this secure platform, anyone can create a simple will at no cost, making it easier than ever to protect the people and causes that matter most.
This resource is available to everyone - not just alumni or donors - because we believe every family deserves the peace of mind that comes from having a plan in place.
As many people create or update their wills, they also take time to reflect on the people, organizations, and experiences that have shaped their lives. After ensuring loved ones are cared for, some choose to leave a charitable gift to an organization that reflects their values and the legacy they hope to leave behind. For many members of the Purcell Marian family, that includes making a lasting investment in the school's future.
A gift through your will - regardless of its size - can help ensure future generations of Cavaliers continue to experience the same faith-filled education, lifelong friendships, and transformational opportunities that have impacted so many lives. It is a simple way to make a difference without affecting your finances today.
Those who choose to include Purcell Marian in their estate plans are welcomed into the Giving in Faith Society, a community of thoughtful supporters who have committed to sustaining the mission of Purcell Marian for generations to come. Membership is our way of expressing gratitude for individuals whose foresight and generosity will help shape the future of our school.
Whether or not you decide to include a charitable gift, creating a will is an act of responsibility, care, and love. It protects your interests, provides peace of mind, and helps relieve your family of unnecessary stress during an already emotional time.
If you've been putting off creating a will because you thought you were too young, didn't have enough assets, or assumed the process would be difficult, there's no better time to begin. One simple document can make a lasting difference for the people you love—and, if you choose, for the causes that have made a lasting difference in your life.
Take the First Step Today
Creating your will is free, confidential, and can often be completed in less than an hour through our partnership with Crescendo Interactive.
As you plan for your loved ones, we invite you to also consider the legacy you hope to leave. If Purcell Marian has been part of your story, a future gift through your estate can ensure that generations of students continue to learn, grow, and thrive in the Marianist tradition.
Create your free will today through our Crescendo planning tool. If you have already included Purcell Marian in your estate plans—or would like to learn more about becoming a member of the Giving in Faith Society—we would be honored to hear from you. Your legacy can inspire future Cavaliers for years to come.
