National Make-A-Will Month: Create Peace of Mind for the Future

National Make-A-Will Month: Create Peace of Mind for the Future

August is National Make-A-Will Month, a timely reminder that one of the most important gifts you can give your loved ones is a clear plan for the future.

While many adults understand the importance of having a will, studies consistently show that many have not yet taken this important step. Estate planning is about much more than distributing assets. A properly drafted will and trust can help safeguard the assets you've worked a lifetime to build, minimize family disputes, avoid unnecessary delays and expenses, and ensure your wishes are carried out according to your intentions.

Without an estate plan, important decisions about your assets and legacy may be left to state laws rather than your personal wishes. By creating or updating your will and trust, you can protect your family, appoint trusted individuals to manage your affairs, and provide greater peace of mind for those you care about most.

Estate planning is also an opportunity to reflect on the values and causes that have shaped your life. For many supporters of Silver Cross Hospital, a charitable gift through a will, trust, retirement account, or beneficiary designation is a powerful way to leave a lasting legacy while preserving financial flexibility during their lifetime. These future gifts help the Silver Cross Foundation invest in advanced technology, innovative programs, patient care initiatives, and community health services that benefit generations to come.

For more than 130 years, Silver Cross has provided exceptional healthcare close to home. Planned gifts from generous donors have helped ensure the hospital continues to evolve to meet the changing healthcare needs of our community. By including Silver Cross in your estate plans, you can make a meaningful impact on the future of healthcare while creating a legacy that reflects your personal values and commitment to caring for others.

To help our community better understand the estate planning process, the Silver Cross Foundation invites you to a complimentary Estate Planning & Charitable Giving Lunch and Discussion on Monday, September 21, 2026, from Noon to 1:30 p.m. at Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox. Attendees will enjoy lunch and hear from a panel of local experts who will discuss key estate planning topics, including wills, living trusts, probate, tax-saving strategies, insurance, charitable giving options, donor-advised funds, and more.

The discussion will feature:

• Heather Voorn, CELA, Attorney and Partner, Voorn, Jaworski & Preston, PLLC
• Nick Tyrell, EFP, ChFC, Financial Advisor, Edward Jones
• Kathy Miller, CLU, ChFC, Owner and Insurance Agent, State Farm Insurance
• Reid Filotto, CPA, CVA, CFE, Accountant and Partner, Filotto Professional Services
• Tracy Simons, CFRE, Executive Director, Silver Cross Foundation

Guests will also receive a complimentary Estate Planning Guide and have the opportunity to ask questions during the panel discussion.

Advance registration is requested. To reserve your seat, contact the Silver Cross Foundation at (815) 300-3941 or register online.

If you have already included Silver Cross Hospital in your estate plans, we invite you to let us know so we can celebrate your generosity through membership in the Silver Cross Legacy Society, recognizing individuals who have chosen to make a lasting difference through planned giving.

Join us during National Make-A-Will Month and take a meaningful step toward protecting your family, preserving your assets, honoring your intentions, and supporting the future of healthcare in our community.