'I wanted to keep contributing after I’m gone': Why Amy left a gift to the SPCA in her will
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After the SPCA saved her beloved cat’s life, animal-lover Amy decided to leave a gift to them in her will.
Amy’s family pets had always come from the SPCA. But during a move to the North Island, Amy’s cat Eneit went missing for about a year and a half. He ended up at the SPCA.
“The SPCA scanned his microchip and gave me a call. I was in tears at work because my baby was back, and he had been so well taken care of. I thought I’ve got to start giving back here, as they had given me the gift of my precious wee kitty.”
Amy now volunteers regularly at her local SPCA.
The importance of giving back
Leaving a gift to the SPCA in her will was an extension of her efforts to support the SPCA while she’s alive, she says.
“Because I spend time there, I’ve seen the hard work that goes into looking after the animals. They do the best they can, stretching out the money they have got. I wanted to be able to contribute, and keep contributing even when I’m gone. That is something that’s really important to me.”
Amy realised just how important having a will was when her dad died in April.
“My parents were very strict about setting everything out clearly in their wills. This has made life a lot easier for us and my mum now,” she explains.
Amy compared it to what some of her friends had experienced when their parents or other family members had died – either without a will or a will that was contested because it wasn’t clear.
Family support
Amy’s family were supportive of her leaving a gift in her will to charity, as they’re very community minded. Amy has left a gift to the SPCA alongside other gifts specified to loved ones.
She encourages starting the conversation with family members about what you’d like to happen when you die.
“We should have open dialogue about money, mental health, and planning for death and what we want when we go. These are all things that historically have been private. But it’s important to talk about it, for your own wellbeing.”
Giving isn’t just for the wealthy
Amy’s message is don’t be discouraged and think you don’t have enough to give.
“I think it’s important that people understand you don’t have to be a millionaire – I’m most certainly not. If you decide you want to give, give what you’re comfortable with,” she says.
“I certainly would encourage others to leave a gift to charity in their will. Do your numbers and work out where you’re at. Go with the charity that’s in your heart.”
