A ‘Willing’ supporter of the Salvos
Geoff Armstrong says it is “a mystery” why nearly half of Australia's adults do not have a valid Will.
“The cost to make a Will is relatively modest to ensure your life’s work is passed on to your chosen beneficiaries,” he says. “The process of making a Will is also relatively straightforward and not particularly time-consuming.”
Geoff, who moved to Australia from England in 2000, regularly donates his time and expertise to Salvation Army “Wills Days”.
“I go along as a volunteer solicitor and make clients a Will on a professional basis and they make a donation in turn to the Salvos,” he says. “So I give my time, effort and expertise. People who need it get a Will and the Salvos get a donation for their work to help people in need. It is a great way of doing things!”
Also involved in Lions Clubs and a number of other charities, Geoff believes it is important to support people in need. He says: “It is something that has been with me since I was a child. Growing up, we never had a great deal of money, and so it was always a matter of donating time.”
Geoff has also had a number of his private clients independently want to leave a legacy to the work of The Salvation Army, and has introduced them to the Army's “Honoured Friends” program. This is a program that recognises those who have generously remembered The Salvation Army in their Will. It includes pastoral care and the opportunity to visit or hear from beneficiaries of Salvation Army programs.
He says of his contact with The Salvation Army over many years: “I just think they’re fantastic. I’ve met many of their officers through the Wills Days and also through the Honoured Friends program and without exception I have found them dedicated, genuine people. Those I’ve introduced to the Honoured Friends program have been delighted with their reception.
“I have also been invited to a couple of Red Shield Appeal breakfasts,” he says. “The stories that hit home the most are the people who have come through programs needing help or shelter and are now putting time back into helping others in the same situations. That means that services and fundraisers such as Wills Days are an investment into our community on so many levels.”
The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory hosts Wills Days in a range of locations throughout the year. To see upcoming Wills Days, head to mySalvos.org.au/tag/wills-day/
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