Research suggests that more than 50% of Americans think estate planning is important, but only 33% have a will. For the nearly 70% of Americans without a written will, many indicate they do not believe they have enough assets to leave behind anything of worth. Even when formal estate plans are in place for titled property such as houses, land, or insurance policies, often overlooked is the non-titled property that makes up the bulk of a person’s estate. From clutter to cherished possessions — and everything in between — understanding the importance of estate planning and how to get started is vital for Kentucky families. FCS agent attended NEAFCS conference attending a presentation of University of Wisconsin Extension Services presenting a curriculum entitled Planning Ahead. Maranda planned and developed with the utilization of UW Planning Ahead template a 6 monthly series merged with UK Financial estate planning curriculum to develop Planning Ahead: Building a Toolkit to help prepare you for changes that arise in life. The topics included: Getting Started, Handling Financial Changes, Advance Medical and Legal Directives, Estate Planning, Choices in End of Life Care and Final Wishes. Each session was held on a sunday evening with light refreshment provided either by FCS or sponsored community partner. Special guest were incoporated after FCS provided planning ahead or FCS material to discuss in depth expertise and local resources available that were applicable to the topic. They included but were not limited to: Senior Primary Care- Centerwell, Bluegrass Care Navigatiors, Amy Dougherty of Bluegrass Elderlaw, Evergreen Memorial Garden, UK Palliative Care Nurse, Kentucky Organ Donation, Wyatt- financial advisor.

There held an average attendance of around 8 attendees that came over 80 percent of the series. Highest attendance peaked at 12 attendees. 25% of attendees were minority and 50% were new comers to the extension office. 100% from evaluation gained increase knowledge after each series presentation then prior. 90% of attendees expressed how helpful this series was to them of getting everything in order and plan to incorporate one or more strategies, tool, toolkit binder as they are estate planning, handling financial changes, working on end of life planning and final wishes. 

FCS agent plans to continue financial education education efforts to express from attendees of interest in heirs property education and potential conducting this same series again in the future.