WGCU Public Media is joining local community organizations in a campaign to promote National Estate Planning Awareness Week, October 19 – 25, 2020, by offering a free digital estate planning guide that will allow users to start organizing their financial assets and thinking through their personal goals.

Estate planning is one of the most overlooked areas of personal financial management. It’s been estimated that more than 120 million Americans do not have proper estate plans to protect themselves or their families in the event of sickness, accidents or death. This circumstance can cost many families unnecessary expenses and financial hardship. Proper planning can help avoid these unintended consequences.

In 2008, Congress passed a resolution proclaiming the third week in October as National Estate Planning Awareness Week. “Public television has long served as an advocate for financial literacy. Estate planning is a critical component of the financial health of most adults,” said Rick Johnson, WGCU general manager.

WGCU will recognize National Estate Planning Week by providing a free personal estate planning guide, which is downloadable. To request your digital planning guide, contact Jennifer Denike at (239) 590-2514 or jdenike@wgcu.org.

“For more than 35 years, WGCU has provided public television programs and educational services to the people in this community. Raising awareness about estate planning is in line with our public service and educational mission,” Johnson said.