Legacy Giving

“I support the work of other Macedonian organizations around the world, but the UMD will always have a special place in my heart. I was present during the early days of UMD’s formation, when the founders established a solid foundation for its work through the mission statement, organizational structure, and support network.”

“I have witnessed the UMD’s evolution over time into one of the most effective advocates for the Macedonian identity, history, language, culture, and state. If Macedonians face great challenges today, they have champions in the honest, hardworking, and dedicated people guiding the UMD. They give me hope that Macedonians will survive and even thrive in the future. That is why my Will contains bequests of both money and valuable cultural items for the UMD.”

— Dr. Michael Seraphinoff, Professor Emeritus, Whidbey Island, Washington State, USA

Why Give to UMD?
Supporting the United Macedonian Diaspora (UMD) means championing the Macedonian identity and culture for future generations. Through your contributions, you enable UMD to continue advocating for Macedonian rights, preserving our rich heritage, and building stronger communities. Your support ensures that our work will have a lasting impact on Macedonians worldwide, just as Dr. Seraphinoff has pledged through his legacy gifts.

Your Legacy, Our Mission
By including UMD in your estate plans or contributing to the “Funding the Future Endowment Fund,” you become part of a movement to shape and sustain the future of the Macedonian diaspora. Planned giving offers an opportunity to make a powerful statement about the values you hold dear while leaving an enduring mark. Together, we can achieve “Successful Macedonian Communities for Future Generations.”

Giving Options
There are several ways to contribute to UMD’s long-term mission:

1. Bequests
   Include UMD in your will or living trust by designating a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, or a residual bequest after other obligations are met.
2. Charitable Gift Annuities
   Provide a lasting gift while securing fixed income for life, with potential tax benefits.
3. Charitable Remainder Trusts
   Receive income from your assets for a period, after which the remaining assets support UMD’s mission.
4. Charitable Lead Trusts
   Provide support to UMD for a specified period while maintaining control of assets within your family.
5. Beneficiary Designations
   Name UMD as a beneficiary of your IRA, retirement plan, or life insurance policy.

What to Give
UMD accepts a range of gifts to support our ongoing work:

• Cash Gifts: Simplest form of support, eligible for immediate tax deductions.
• Securities: Appreciated stocks, bonds, and mutual funds can be donated for potential tax savings.
• Real and Personal Property: Real estate, art, collectibles, and other tangible assets can contribute meaningfully to our mission.
• IRA/Retirement Assets: Designating UMD as a beneficiary of retirement plans offers effective estate planning benefits and tax advantages.

Plan Your Gift Today
UMD, in collaboration with The Cleveland Foundation, can assist you in tailoring your giving plan to meet your charitable and financial goals. Whether your aim is to reduce taxes, preserve family wealth, or maximize philanthropic impact, we are here to help you every step of the way.

To explore your options or begin your giving journey, please contact:

Donald L. Sazdanoff
Phone: (419) 884-8309 (work)

Cleveland Foundation’s Advancement Team
Phone: (216) 685-2006

Together, we can preserve our heritage, advocate for Macedonian causes, and ensure that the voices of Macedonians continue to be heard for generations to come.

UMD and its members do not provide tax and/or estate planning advice.  Please consult with your professional tax advisor/estate planner concerning any questions as to how any gift will affect your tax and estate situation. Pending tax and estate legislation may alter the above-mentioned strategies, amounts, deadlines, and limits.