What if one decision today could echo for generations?
In 1932, recognizing how her life had already made a substantial impact on the world, Helen Keller worked with the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) to begin establishing the Helen Keller Archive, which would memorialize her legacy for future generations. Helen continued to work with AFB until her death in 1968, strengthening the foundation she had laid along the way. Today, AFB’s Helen Keller Archive is a resource not only chronicling her life but also providing a snapshot into the disability experience and global affairs during the late 19th and 20th centuries.
While there was only one Helen Keller, each of us has the power to make a difference. Even the smallest gift can create meaningful change for those who come after us—and that’s where planned giving comes in.
Planned giving is a way to plan today how your wealth or assets can advance a mission you care about tomorrow. It’s not just for the wealthy. Anyone can leave a legacy gift, regardless of estate size. Planned giving is more than a financial choice—it ensures the causes that matter most to you continue to thrive, allowing your values and passions to live on.
You’re not just giving—you’re investing in the future. Whether it’s funding scholarships, advancing accessibility, supporting research, or addressing the needs of the aging population, making a planned gift to AFB creates real change. Take, for instance, the bequest made in memory of Lulu J. Alonso, which provided funding to establish the AFB Scholars Program. Beginning this year, it awards life-changing scholarships in her honor to outstanding students who are blind.
This is just one example of the power of planned giving. By taking a few moments to reflect on how your legacy can make a difference, you can plant the seeds of lasting change for our community—not just today, but for generations to come. As a nonprofit, the American Foundation for the Blind can be listed as a beneficiary of a retirement account, life insurance policy, or bank account without changing your will. This simple step supports future growth and may also provide significant tax benefits for your estate.
Planned giving isn’t one-size-fits-all. Options include:
- Bequests in a will or trust
- Beneficiary designations
- Charitable gift annuities or trusts
- Gifts of stock, real estate, or life insurance
Knowing that your legacy will support what matters most to you is an empowering and fulfilling act that you can take today, much in the same way Helen Keller did when she had the foresight to gift her own life’s work and possessions to the American Foundation for the Blind. Planned giving helps you reflect on your life’s story and how you want it to continue. And we want you to know that we’re here to help you explore your options. You're never alone in this process. That’s why our team is here to answer questions, guide your thinking, and help you align your legacy with your vision.
Whether you're updating your will or just starting to think about your legacy, this is a meaningful moment to make a difference. Learn how a planned gift can become your lasting message of hope, love, and generosity.
Visit our Helen Keller Society page to learn more about planned giving at AFB.
