3 minute read
Donor Story: Leaving a Lasting Legacy
By Valerie Hoffman, Garden Member and Former Board of Trustees Chair
Hello, my name is Valerie Hoffman, and I’ve been a member of Santa Barbara Botanic Garden for the last 11 years. I have served on committees, been a trustee, and served as board chair, and I am currently on the Development Committee, from which the Garden’s planned giving program is managed.
I understand that the circumstances around planned giving are something many people would rather not talk or think about. However, I invite you to consider reframing this conversation through the lens of financial planning. I personally find this approach more motivating; it’s about deciding where my assets could grow and benefit the people and causes I care about.
Many of us give money to support causes we believe in, provided family and essential needs are already met. After those family needs, according to my way of thinking, there is another fundamental and foundational priority: the essential needs of nature that support human life. The Garden plays a crucial role in this endeavor by advocating for the preservation of native plants and the biodiversity they sustain. Through innovative educational initiatives and scientific research, the Garden has been instrumental in raising awareness about the importance of native flora and its impact on our ecosystem.
Not only is the Garden a conservation powerhouse, but it is also an incredibly beautiful space. You may have brought young ones to play in the Backcountry Section, hiked with your dog, engaged in forest bathing in the Redwood Section, taken classes in native plant gardening, or taken photos of your friends and family in the Meadow Section during the gorgeous spring superbloom. We hope you have learned about the depth and importance of the Garden’s scientific research and conservation carried out by a staff with more than 86 scientific professionals, including 10 Ph.D.-level scientists.
Reflecting on my own financial-planning journey, I’ve come to appreciate the significance of translating my values into tangible plans and actions. I want to be clear about what I stand up for, now and into the future, and about the values I hold near to my heart and want to support in a meaningful way. The joy and peace I experience in nature helps keep my life calm and thoughtful. I appreciate that the Garden founders had the foresight 98 years ago to begin educating us about why native plants are the centerpiece to a consciously healthy and sound environment. That’s remarkable, and I honor that.
When you take a moment to think about what you support, now and in the future, I invite you to consider the Garden. Whether through a direct contribution, a planned gift, or other creative financial instrument, there are lots of ways to ensure your intentions are realized in a manner that aligns with your values and preferences. The Garden would love to join your journey with ideas and options for making your intentions come true. If you have any questions, you can reach out directly to Jenny McClure, 805.690.1689 or jmcclure@SBBotanicGarden.org, or contact your professional financial advisor.
For me, giving is more than planning for this year, next year, or after my passing; it’s about my enduring intention. Let’s talk about your intention, whenever and however it works for you. Thank you for considering these thoughts, and I look forward to you joining me in support of the Garden.
