South Africa’s rich birdlife faces growing threats: climate change, habitat loss, land degradation, and pollution are driving many species toward extinction. The natural world, and the birds that depend on it, need us more than ever.
That’s why BirdLife South Africa established the BirdLife National Trust – a permanent endowment fund that safeguards the long-term future of our conservation work. The main purpose of the BirdLife National Trust is to receive donations and legacy gifts, to manage and invest these funds on behalf of BirdLife South Africa, and to apply the income derived for the objectives of BirdLife South Africa.
All legacy gifts are directed to this Trust, ensuring they are carefully managed and used to support meaningful, long-lasting conservation impact.
Note: If you include BirdLife South Africa in your Will, your bequest will be directed to the BirdLife National Trust.
Read more abut the trust.
There are several meaningful ways to leave a gift to BirdLife South Africa:
Pecuniary Bequest
A fixed sum of money.
Residuary Bequest
A percentage (or the entirety) of what remains in your estate after debts, taxes, and other gifts are made.
Specific Bequest
A particular item of value – such as shares, property, artwork, or a vehicle.
Contingent Bequest
A gift that only takes effect if certain conditions are met, such as the prior passing of other beneficiaries.
Retirement Annuities and Life Policies
You can name BirdLife South Africa as a full or partial beneficiary of your retirement funds or life insurance policy.
We recommend seeking independent legal advice when preparing your Will. Here is an example of wording to share with your attorney:
“I, [Your Name], bequeath [the residue of my estate / a percentage / a fixed amount / specified item] to the BirdLife National Trust, registered with IT3774/2012 (G), Public Benefit Organisation number 930044625PBO, whose main office is at Isdell House, 17 Hume Road, Dunkeld West, Johannesburg, 2196, to be used at the sole discretion of BirdLife South Africa for the conservation work of the said organisation in South Africa.”
Gifts to the BirdLife National Trust are exempt from estate duty.
If you are considering leaving a gift to BirdLife South Africa in your Will, we promise that:
- Your legacy will be treated with care, sensitivity, and the deepest respect.
- Your privacy and wishes will be honoured at all times.
- Every gift, large or small, makes a meaningful difference.
- Your gift will be used wherever it is needed most, to achieve the greatest impact for conservation.
- At any time in the future, you have the right to change your mind about leaving a gift to BirdLife South Africa.
As a gesture of our gratitude, legacy donors are honoured on our Legacy Wall at Isdell House, BirdLife South Africa’s head office. A plaque bearing your name will serve as a lasting tribute to your commitment to birds and biodiversity once your gift is received.
If you prefer to remain anonymous, please contact Tarryn McKechnie to ensure your wishes are respected.
If you’d like to talk confidentially about leaving a gift, we’re here to help.
Should you choose to let us know that you’ve included BirdLife South Africa in your Will, we would be honoured to hear from you and acknowledge your thoughtful gesture, but this is entirely up to you.
Contact:
Tarryn McKechnie
📧tarryn.mckechnie@birdlife.org.za
📞 +27 (0)11 789 1122
With your support, South Africa’s birds will continue to sing, soar, and inspire for generations to come
