The American Heart Association is offering individuals an opportunity to learn about strategic charitable giving through a free virtual webinar designed to help donors maximize their financial potential while supporting critical health initiatives. On Wednesday, March 19, experts will discuss how charitable gift annuities (CGA) and qualified charitable distributions (QCD) can simultaneously provide personal financial security and contribute to meaningful medical research.
Research indicates that strategic charitable giving offers more than financial advantages, with studies suggesting philanthropic activities are associated with reduced stress levels and improved personal well-being. The upcoming webinar will provide comprehensive insights into how individuals can structure their charitable contributions to benefit both themselves and important health causes.
Featured speakers, including Pamela Leonard, national executive lead of charitable estate planning, and Andrew Fussner, national vice president of estate settlement, will guide participants through the complexities of planned giving. Attendees will receive personalized illustrations demonstrating potential benefits and have opportunities to ask expert questions about integrating charitable strategies into their financial planning.
The webinar's timing is particularly significant given the ongoing challenges in cardiovascular health. According to the American Heart Association's 2025 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Update, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. Planned giving can directly support the organization's ambitious 2028 Impact Goal, which aims to drive scientific breakthroughs and implement proven solutions in health research, policy, and care.
By participating in this webinar, donors can learn how their contributions can create a lasting legacy through the Paul Dudley White Legacy Circle, named after one of the organization's founders who is considered the father of preventative cardiology. These legacy gifts enable continued advancement of cardiovascular research and treatment, potentially saving and improving countless lives.
The virtual event represents an accessible and informative approach to understanding how charitable giving can be strategically integrated into personal financial planning. By providing complimentary resources and expert guidance, the American Heart Association empowers individuals to make informed decisions that benefit both their financial future and broader community health initiatives.
