You do not need to have a fortune to give a lasting gift to BBG. Planned gifts, both large and small, play a critical role in ensuring the future of BBG. Invested over time, any size gift can make a significant impact.

Planned gifts tailored to an individual's unique circumstances have become increasingly important because they provide long-term support to BBG yet save donors surprising amounts in estate, gift, and income taxes.

Bequests are the simplest and most straightforward mechanism for leaving a gift to Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Bequests can be unrestricted, allowing BBG's trustees to apply the gift where the need is greatest. They can also be earmarked for special purposes. If you are considering restricting your gift, however, we would appreciate the opportunity to discuss your ideas, and the language you plan to use, before you finalize the gift.

Sample Language

"I give, devise, and bequeath to Brooklyn Botanic Garden Corporation, located at 1000 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, 11225, (the sum of $_______) or (____% of the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate, real and personal) for its general charitable purposes."

If you would like to benefit the Garden but would welcome extra income during your lifetime, a charitable gift annuity might be perfect for you. Alternately, if you wish to maximize the capital received by your children and/or grandchildren and are lucky enough to be able to forego some income during your lifetime, a charitable lead trust might suit your financial goals.

BBG can also be named as beneficiary of your retirement plan or life insurance policy and will accept gifts of real estate or closely held stock, pending board approval. Please contact us at the numbers below to learn more.

Forsythia Society

As a special way of saying thank you, the Forsythia Society has been established to honor BBG's loyal supporters who have made a planned gift or included a bequest to BBG in their wills. In 1940, at the urging of BBG benefactor Mrs. Edward C. Blum, forsythia was proclaimed the flower of Brooklyn and imbued with the message of brotherhood, unity, and understanding. It is a perennial shrub whose golden color announces the arrival of spring each year. Members of the Forsythia Society enjoy benefits that include recognition at an annual Forsythia Society event and invitations to special BBG events and programs.

If you have made a bequest to Brooklyn Botanic Garden, please let us know so that you can be recognized as a member of the Forsythia Society and we can keep you apprised of upcoming Forsythia Society activities.

If you or your attorney have any questions about how best to accommodate your estate planning goals with a gift to BBG, or for more information about the Forsythia Society, please contact Robby O’Sullivan at 718-623-7246 or email rosullivan@bbg.org.