"How much is enough to leave my heirs?"

It’s one of the most frequently asked questions estate planners hear.
For Mary Waldron of Greenwich, the decision to leave a bequest to the Foundation’s Fund for Women and Girls came down to a simple question: Who would benefit the most?

“I weighed the value of the money to my heirs compared to the amount of good it could do for less fortunate people,” Mary said. “My heirs are already comfortable. But to the women who are disadvantaged in Fairfield County, my bequest could change their lives.”

When she was a young, independent woman, Mary took a job in financial services, the first long-term position she had held. She lived in fear that she was only one piece of bad luck away from ending up on the street.

Fortunately, determination, ambition, talent–and luck–were with her, and she went on to enjoy a successful career.

Mary realized that her long-ago story is similar to many of today’s women, especially those who live in high-priced Fairfield County.

“I was given almost every advantage. I had a first class education, a great network of friends and a home base in New York City,” Mary said.

“Despite all that, I wasn’t sure I was going to make it. I have enormous compassion for women who face many more challenges than I did, and are still holding up half the sky.

“The Foundation is going to be there for a long time, and it has the infrastructure and expertise to continue my wishes long after I am gone.

“Plus, I get daily pleasure from knowing I have made this gift.”