Large-Scale Giving Not Just for the Wealthy

Like many other families in his congregation, Pastor Wesley Pritchard represents four generations within the church. Pritchard’s father founded Fayetteville (NC) Community Church in 1972, and still preaches today at 81 years old.

Wesley Pritchard’s children grew up in the church just like he did, and his grandchildren attend the recently-opened Riverside Christian Academy school. Recently, through WoodmenLife’s Legacy Giving Program, Pritchard has found a way to help support the church for generations to come.

A Partnership with WoodmenLife

WoodmenLife Recruiting Sales Manager Ryan Blake, a member of Pritchard’s congregation, began to think about how the church would meet ongoing expenses of the school and future community center down the road.

“Many people don’t see the benefit of giving large amounts because they fear they may need the money,” Blake said.

You and the charity you give to may also enjoy benefits, including:

• The ability to give more than you ever thought possible, through the life insurance death benefit.
• Death proceeds that avoid the delays of probate.

Providing for Future Generations

Blake and three other WoodmenLife Representatives approached the pastor about starting a program to help members of the congregation contribute to the future of the church.

“It was a light bulb experience,” Pritchard said. “It gives people that would like to give a meaningful amount to charity the opportunity to do so. Your everyday working person can give. It’s also great for younger people who may not have a lot of money but want to support what we’re doing for the long haul. I’m really excited.”

Pritchard sees the program as an opportunity to make his future vision for the church a reality.

“It’s an unbelievable feeling to walk into my grandchildren’s classroom and know the education they’re getting,” Pritchard said. “Through this program, we are going to establish something that is going to last way longer than we are. We are enabling and empowering the next generation.”

Pritchard Leaves His Own Legacy

In addition to helping his church thrive for generations, he has made a name for himself as a gospel musician. Since 1995, Wesley has been part of the Gaither Homecoming Video Series, singing, producing and playing bass. He also has sung with Old Friends Quartet, The Gaither Vocal Band, Ernie Haase and Signature Sound.He has also filled in for The Hoppers, The Booth Brothers, The Martins, and many more groups.

Wesley is a two-time Dove Award winner. He won for producing Southern Gospel album of the year “Encore” for Old Friends Quartet and for producing the Spanish Language album of the year “Te Amo Dios.”

Wesley has worked with Mill West Recording Studios in Fayetteville, North Carolina for more than 25 years. There he has produced and recorded hundreds of Gospel projects.

Supporting Your Cause

If you’re interested supporting a cause you care about, it begins with talking to your Representative, who can help you set up a plan.

“We suggest you start with determining how much you need to take care of your family, and then decide what organization you’re passionate about. It starts with you,” Blake said.

1. Benefits are includible in the estate if death occurs within three years of transfer of ownership.
2. Assignment of modified endowment contracts may be reportable to the assignor to the extent of the gain in the certificate. Contact your professional tax advisor or attorney for tax or legal advice.
3. Benefits are includible in the estate if ownership is not assigned (i.e., only a beneficiary designation is made).