Heirloom Circle

Join a circle of visionary gardeners with a planned gift today.

LEARN ABOUT the Circle

The Minnesota Horticultural Society (MSHS) encourages donors to work with their legal and tax advisers on their plans.

Join the Circle

Heirloom Circle members receive…

  • Annual recognition on the Hort Society website
  • Special garden gatherings with fellow supporters and MSHS board and staff leadership
  • Satisfaction knowing you’re keeping a 150-year legacy and mission strong and healthy for future generations of gardeners

6 ways to pass on your love of gardening:

Wills and Charitable Bequests

After providing for your loved ones, name MSHS as a beneficiary in your will.

View resources for charitable estate planning Learn how to create a legal will Consult an estate planning attorney

Retirement Assets

For many donors, legacy gifts are an attractive strategy to reduce the tax burden of retirement funds.

Read the IRS Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and Tax Considerations Guide Learn the best strategies for donating retirement assets Visit your financial institution for any beneficiary designation forms

Life Insurance

You can make MSHS the beneficiary of your life insurance policy, give an existing or new policy or create an irrevocable life insurance trust.

Learn how to name a charity as a beneficiary Explore resources on life insurance policy donations Contact your life insurance provider to update your beneficiary form

Trusts and Annuities

You can support MSHS for a specified period, then remaining assets go to you or other named beneficiaries. Or, enjoy your income for some period, then transfer remaining assets to MSHS.

Read the Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT) and Charitable Gift Annuity (CGA) Guide Learn more about planned giving and trusts Find a Certified Estate Planner

IRA Distributions

If you’re 70½ or older, you may be eligible to make a tax-free gift directly from your IRA to the MSHS. Known as a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD), this type of gift can count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD), reduce your taxable income and make a lasting impact on gardening education and access across the region.

Learn more about Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) and tax implications Talk to your financial advisor for guidance on making a direct transfer Visit your brokerage firm or custodian for distribution forms

Gifts of Stock

When you transfer appreciated bonds or mutual fund shares that you have held for more than one year, you receive a tax deduction for the full market value of your gift. Giving appreciated securities is a tax-efficient way to support MSHS.

Read through a guide to donating stocks Ask your financial planner about Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs)

Ready to learn more?

We’re happy to walk you through the simple steps. Contact us at development@northerngardener.org or call 651-643-3601 for more information.

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