Despite 83% of Americans recognizing the importance of estate planning, only 31% actually have a will, leaving loved ones vulnerable to legal delays, unexpected costs, and unnecessary stress according to the Trust & Will 2025 estate planning report. This significant gap highlights a critical public need for accessible education and tools to address financial planning vulnerabilities that affect millions of households.
The American Heart Association is addressing this urgent issue by offering a free one-hour webinar on Wednesday, August 27, at 2 pm ET during National Make-a-Will Month. The session will feature nationally recognized estate planning professionals Lindsey Weinberg Esq., estate planning attorney and partner at The Laiderman Law Firm, and Andrew Fussner Esq., national vice president of estate settlement at the American Heart Association. These experts will provide practical guidance on achieving financial stability and creating long-term plans that reflect personal values.
Lee Shapiro, volunteer chair of the American Heart Association, emphasized the importance of this initiative: "Estate planning ensures your voice is heard, supports your loved ones and allows you to leave a legacy that reflects your values. This webinar gives people the knowledge and tools to take that important step." The session is designed to equip participants with clarity and confidence to make informed decisions about their financial future while avoiding costly mistakes common in estate planning.
Participants will receive free educational materials with registration along with complimentary, no-obligation estate preparation tools. The Heart Association also offers additional free online planning tools through FreeWill, enabling anyone to create a legally binding will in as little as 20 minutes. This accessibility addresses the practical barriers that prevent many from taking action on estate planning despite recognizing its importance.
The American Heart Association views planned giving as a powerful method to create lasting impact and support personally meaningful causes. Donations contributed through wills, trusts, or other estate plans will support the organization's 2028 Impact Goal, driving innovative breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, public policy, and quality of care. Donors who choose legacy gifts through charitable financial planning are recognized as members of the prestigious Paul Dudley White Legacy Circle, a designation within the Cor Vitae Society named in tribute to one of the Heart Association's visionary founders.
This initiative represents a significant public health and financial literacy effort, addressing a widespread gap in personal preparedness that affects families across socioeconomic backgrounds. The webinar provides immediate, practical solutions to a problem that impacts not only individual families but also community health organizations that rely on planned giving to sustain their mission-driven work.
