American Heart Association Addresses Critical Estate Planning Gap with Free National Webinar
The American Heart Association is hosting a free estate planning webinar to address the significant gap between Americans' recognition of estate planning importance (83%) and actual will preparation (31%), helping protect families from legal complications and supporting long-term financial security.
New research reveals a substantial disconnect between American attitudes toward estate planning and actual preparation, with 83% acknowledging its importance but only 31% having created a will. This gap leaves families vulnerable to legal delays, unexpected costs, and unnecessary stress during difficult times, according to the Trust & Will 2025 estate planning report.
To address this critical issue, the American Heart Association is offering a free one-hour webinar on August 27 during National Make-a-Will Month. The session will provide practical guidance on estate planning fundamentals and debunk common myths that prevent people from taking action. Lee Shapiro, volunteer chair of the American Heart Association, emphasized that "estate planning ensures your voice is heard, supports your loved ones and allows you to leave a legacy that reflects your values."
The webinar will feature nationally recognized estate planning professionals Lindsey Weinberg Esq., estate planning attorney and partner at The Laiderman Law Firm, and Andrew Fussner Esq., national vice president of estate settlement at the American Heart Association. These experts will share actionable steps consumers can take to achieve financial stability and create comprehensive long-term plans that reflect personal values while avoiding costly mistakes.
Participants will receive free educational materials and complimentary estate preparation tools with registration. The Heart Association also provides additional free online planning resources through FreeWill, enabling anyone to create legally binding documents in approximately 20 minutes.
The initiative supports the American Heart Association's broader 2028 Impact Goal, which focuses on driving innovative breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, public policy, and quality care. Donors who include charitable giving in their estate plans through the Association's resources are recognized as members of the prestigious Paul Dudley White Legacy Circle, part of the Cor Vitae Society named after one of the organization's visionary founders.
Advanced registration is required for the webinar, which represents a significant step toward closing the estate planning knowledge gap and helping Americans protect their families' financial futures while potentially supporting meaningful health initiatives through planned giving.