Leave a Lasting Legacy with ASCRS 

For more than 125 years, the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) has advanced the science and practice of colorectal surgery through education, research, advocacy, and clinical excellence. A planned gift ensures this work continues for future generations of surgeons and the patients they serve. And for more than 20 years, The Research Foundation of the ASCRS has awarded over $6 million to colorectal surgeons and researchers to investigate a broad spectrum of colorectal diseases and to develop novel surgical techniques pertinent to the care of colorectal patients.

What Is Planned Giving? 

Planned giving, also known as legacy giving, allows you to make a charitable gift as part of your overall financial or estate planning. These gifts are typically arranged during your lifetime and realized in the future. 
Common ways to give include: 

  • Bequests through a will or living trust 
  • Beneficiary designations on retirement accounts or life insurance policies 
  • Charitable remainder trusts 
  • Gifts through a Donor Advised Fund (DAF) 
  • Gifts of appreciated securities or other assets 
  • IRA charitable distributions 

How Your Gift Makes an Impact 

A legacy gift to ASCRS or the Research Foundation supports the long-term strength and sustainability of the Society. Your gift may help advance: 

  • Surgical education and professional development programs 
  • Research and innovation in colorectal disease 
  • Advocacy efforts on behalf of colorectal surgeons and patients 

Sample Bequest Language 

If you wish to include ASCRS in your estate plans, you may share the following sample language with your attorney: 

“I give and bequeath to the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, a nonprofit organization, Tax ID 13-6160852 the sum of $_____ (or _____% of my estate), to be used for its general purposes.” 

You may also designate your gift for a specific purpose, subject to approval by ASCRS. We encourage you to consult your attorney or financial advisor to determine the language most appropriate for your situation. 

If you wish to include The Research Foundation of the ASCRS in your estate plans, you may share the following sample language with your attorney:

“I give and bequeath to the Research Foundation of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, a nonprofit organization, Tax ID 87-6123876 the sum of $_____ (or _____% of my estate), to be used for its general purposes.” 

Recognition 

ASCRS is grateful for individuals who choose to support the Society or Research Foundation through a planned gift. With your permission, we would be honored to recognize your commitment as part of a future Legacy Society celebrating those who have included ASCRS or the Research Foundation in their estate plans. 

Contact Information 

If you are considering a planned gift or have already included ASCRS or the Research Foundation in your estate plans, we thank you and welcome a confidential conversation. 

Lauren Rucker
Manager, Individual and Institutional Development
Phone: (224) 554-0824

Contact Lauren

 

Legal Disclaimer 

The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as legal or tax advice. Please consult your professional advisors when considering a planned gift. 

ASCRS and Research Foundation of the ASCRS have earned Candid's 2026 Platinum Seal of Transparency, reflecting our commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship.

The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons and the Research Foundation of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons are qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations and donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Please consult your tax advisor regarding specific questions about your deductions.