Legacy Giving is Easy with Our Free Make-A-Will Program

Legacy giving through the Enduring Rivers Circle is more than philanthropy—it’s gratitude in action.

Leave a lasting legacy to the special places that made a difference in your life. The Enduring Rivers Circle honors people who include American Whitewater in their estate plans—ensuring river stewardship continues for generations to come.

Why It Matters

Since 1954, American Whitewater has worked to conserve and restore free-flowing rivers and ensure safe recreation for paddlers across the U.S. The Enduring Rivers Circle was established in 2012 to formally recognize individuals who extend that mission through a gift in their estate plans. Members are publicly acknowledged each year in American Whitewater’s annual Impact Report (or may choose to remain anonymous) and join a community committed to long-term stewardship.

Emily Jackson and Nick Troutman reflect a shared ethos among paddlers who give back:

"Nick and I met on the banks of a river. Like many of our close friends, the river has been a source of connection—not only to others, but to where we feel the most ourselves. Knowing how powerful the rivers have been in shaping our lives, and how much joy they bring on a daily basis, we wanted to ensure the opportunity would be available for future generations. When we saw that American Whitewater had access to a FreeWill portal, and how easy it was to set up, it was a no brainer to not only use this platform, but leave a small gift to AW. If you're like us and want something simple, easy and incredibly impactful—use FreeWill and give back to amazing organizations like AW!"

American Whitewater offers flexibility in how you include a gift in your legacy—whether you use FreeWill or work with your own attorney and advisors.

**Bequests (Wills or Living Trusts)**
- A fixed dollar amount or percentage of your estate
- Specific assets like real estate or securities
- Restricted or unrestricted gifts
Bequests are flexible, revocable, and can qualify for estate tax deductions.

**Trust Gifts**
You can name American Whitewater as a beneficiary in your trust, offering privacy and control over complex estate plans.

**Beneficiary Designations**
- Retirement plans (IRA, 401(k))
- Life insurance policies
These gifts pass outside probate and are simple to update.

**Non‑Cash and Asset Gifts**
- Securities (avoid capital gains)
- Real estate
- Cryptocurrency
- Employer-matched gifts and workplace giving

Using FreeWill or Your Own Advisor

**Option A – FreeWill portal**: A free, guided online tool that helps you create a will in about 20–30 minutes.

**Option B – Your own advisor**: Use your attorney or financial planner. Sample language and guidance are available on our website.

How to Join the Enduring Rivers Circle

1. Include American Whitewater in your estate plans.
2. Notify us by contacting Bethany Overfield.
3. Receive recognition as a member of the Enduring Rivers Circle.

Bequests, beneficiary gifts, trusts, and non-cash assets all enable lasting stewardship. For help getting started, contact Bethany Overfield at bethany@americanwhitewater.org or 1-877-748-3777.