Most of us know we should have a will—but it’s one of those tasks that often stays on the “someday” list. Not because it isn’t important, but because it can feel complicated or easy to put off.
The good news is that getting started doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s less about having everything figured out and more about taking a few simple steps to help bring clarity and peace of mind.
This August, as part of National Make-A-Will Month, we’re sharing a gentle starting point for anyone thinking about creating a will.
A will is simply a way to make your decisions known. It helps ensure:
At its heart, it’s an act of care—for your family and for the future.
For some, it also becomes a way to extend that care beyond their lifetime, supporting organizations and causes that are close to their heart.
You don’t need to do everything at once. Most people start with a few simple steps. A helpful way to start is simply to take it step by step:
1. Think about what matters most to you
Who are the people you want to look after or remember? Are there organizations or causes that have been meaningful in your life?
2. Make a simple list of your assets
This doesn’t need to be precise or complicated. Just a basic overview:
3. Choose someone you trust
This person helps carry out your wishes. It could be a family member, close friend or advisor.
4. Put your wishes in writing
Many people work with an attorney to draft their will. Others begin with simple tools or conversations.
There isn’t one “right” way to start—the important thing is simply to begin.
5. Revisit your will over time
Life changes, and your plans can too. A will is something you can update as needed.
For some people, a will is also a way to think about their legacy—what continues beyond them.
In the Eversight community, some supporters choose to express their legacy by including a gift that helps restore sight for future generations. These gifts become part of something lasting: lives changed, independence restored and hope renewed.
Choosing to include a charitable gift in your will is entirely personal. For those who decide it reflects their values, it can become an act of generosity that continues to create impact for years to come.
I’ve included Eversight in my will because I’m confident their work will continue restoring sight and advancing research for years to come.
— Lion Bill Sutton
If you’ve already included Eversight in your estate plans, we’d be grateful if you’d let us know. Doing so doesn’t create any obligation. It simply allows us to thank you for your generosity and recognize your future commitment to restoring sight.
Planning ahead isn’t about having everything figured out. It’s about taking a small, thoughtful step today that brings clarity for tomorrow—and reflects the values you care about most.
To learn more about creating a will or including Eversight in your plans, we invite you to visit our Planned Giving page or contact Alex Teska, Philanthropy Director, at ateska@eversightvision.org or (734) 780-2675.