History
Named in honor of the New York Yankees legend who gave his life – and his name – to this disease more than 60 years ago, The Lou Gehrig Legacy Society was established in 1996 to recognize all those who have included The ALS Association – whether the national office, one of ALSA’s chapters, or both – in their long-term plans through a bequest, life-income gift, or other planned gift arrangement.
Among ALSA’s most valued supporters, members of The Lou Gehrig Legacy Society have determined that their legacy will be one of hope – hope that a cure for ALS will be found and that those living with ALS across the country will have quick and easy access to vital patient services.
On behalf of the 30,000 Americans living with ALS, it is our privilege to invite you to become a member of The Lou Gehrig Legacy Society, helping to ensure that ALS does not compromise the lives of future generations.
How to Join
There is no minimum commitment required for membership in The Lou Gehrig Legacy Society, nor is proof of a commitment necessary. We ask that members confirm their gift in writing by filling out a Membership Form.
Members of The Lou Gehrig Legacy Society may remain anonymous; all information will be kept strictly confidential.
The following kinds of commitments, subject to certain restrictions, qualify you for membership in The Lou Gehrig Legacy Society:
- A bequest provision in your will or revocable trust;
- A life-income gift that names ALSA as a remainder beneficiary, such as a charitable remainder trust or a charitable gift annuity;
- A charitable lead trust that provides current income to ALSA;
- A gift or assignment of qualified retirement plan assets, such as an IRA, 401(k), or 403(b);
- A gift of life insurance;
- and certain other planned gifts.
If you have already included ALSA in a bequest or other planned gift, we hope you will let us know. Your willingness to be listed as a member of The Lou Gehrig Legacy Society encourages others to follow your example. We acknowledge and respect those who wish to remain anonymous, but we urge you to notify us of your plans on a confidential basis.
If you have not yet included ALSA in your plans and would like to explore the best options for you and your family, please feel free to contact us. We would be glad to assist you confidentially and with no obligation.
Benefits of Membership
In an effort to preserve your legacy for the purpose it is intended, we have chosen a few simple ways to recognize your commitment.
Each new member of The Lou Gehrig Legacy Society will receive a framed certificate of appreciation, signed by the President and CEO of The ALS Association.
In addition to this small expression of gratitude, we hope you will allow us to recognize you in ALSA’s Annual Report and in other publications from time to time. Your presence on these lists encourages others to join in this important effort.
Members of The Lou Gehrig Legacy Society are given an opportunity to publicly honor or memorialize a loved one in published lists. Many members see this as the most valuable benefit of membership – publicly paying tribute to a loved one.
Members are invited to become more prominently involved either with the national office or with an ALSA chapter in their community, and will receive occasional invitations to local chapter events.
Additionally, as a member of The Lou Gehrig Legacy Society, you will receive periodic updates and information about ALSA’s programs and services, including regular ALS research updates.
The Office of Gift Planning sends information to members about the latest tax changes affecting philanthropy. Each member also receives ALSA’s financial and charitable planning newsletter, Legacy of Hope.
Lastly, members will benefit from the realization that they are contributing in a meaningful way to the search for a cure for ALS and are helping those currently living with the disease.
Register Now
If you have already included ALSA in your estate plans, fill in this simple online Membership Form to become a member of The Lou Gehrig Legacy Society.
Your foresight and partnership in this vital effort serves as an inspiration and a ray of hope to those who, like Lou Gehrig before them, continue to fight this disease with awe-inspiring tenacity, courage and optimism.
