Bequest gifts are the simplest of planned gifts. A bequest is simply a statement in a will that stipulates a gift to an individual or organization--for example, the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF). A combination of both large and small bequests throughout the years has enabled the DMRF to continue to move forward in its mission to find a cure and to serve those affected by this debilitating disorder. 

We encourage you to contact Director of Development Tammy Reed at treed@dystonia-foundation.org or 312-755-0198 if you are considering making a bequest to the DMRF in your will.

Sample bequest language is provided below. Please note that the legal name of the DMRF is "the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation."

Language relating to formation of a bequest

• The general bequest is probably the most popular type of bequest and is usually stated as a designated dollar amount. (Example: I leave to the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) located in Chicago, Illinois, the sum of $50,000.)

• A specific bequest may designate a particular item to be donated. (Example: I leave to the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF), located in Chicago, Illinois, 2000 shares of XYZ stock.) (Or, I leave to the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF), located in Chicago, Illinois, my savings account #23456 at First National Bank.)

• A residual bequest is used to give all -- or a portion of -- one's estate after specific and general bequests are distributed. (Example: [after specifying any items or amounts to other beneficiaries] I give the rest, residue and remainder of my estate to the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF), located in Chicago, Illinois.)

• A percentage bequest allows the amount to be distributed to the DMRF to grow over the years as the estate grows. (Example: [after specifying any items or amounts to other beneficiaries] I give to the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF), located in Chicago, Illinois, 50% of the rest, residue and remainder of my estate.)

• A contingent bequest is one that will take effect only if the primary intention cannot be met or if a beneficiary predeceases the donor. (Example: In the event that ____ predeceases me, I direct that the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF), located in Chicago, Illinois, receive his/her designated bequest.)

Language relating to ultimate use of bequest:

Unrestricted: "to be used for the benefit of the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) as is its Board of Directors may determine."
 
Endowment: "to become part of the general endowment of the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF)."

Memorial Fund: "to establish a fund known as the _____ Memorial Fund. The Board of Directors of the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF), at its discretion, shall determine the use of the income for any purpose. Said Board of Directors may authorize the expenditure of all or any part of the principal of the Fund for some project or special purpose, provided that an appropriate recognition be made in the name of  ______ ."

Grant/Fellowship Fund: "for the establishment of a grant/fellowship fund to be known as the _____ Grant/Fellowship Fund, with the intent that this be an endowed grant/fellowship fund with only the income being used to make fellowship awards or grants. If the bequest amount does not meet the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) minimum requirements for an endowed grant/fellowship at the time it is received, then the bequest shall be used for general grant/fellowship support and designated as being in memory/recognition of _______ ."

A specific purpose: "to be used for the purpose of (be specific) or if such use, in the judgment of the Board of Directors of the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation, is or shall become impractical or unwise, then for such purpose as said Board shall determine."

If you are considering making a bequest to the DMRF in your will, we encourage you to contact Director of Development Tammy Reed at treed@dystonia-foundation.org or 312-755-0198.