We don’t always know what WDAV means to the listeners on the other side of the radio. Sometimes, we don’t find out until years later.

Several years ago, Robert, a retired professor from Charlotte, made a modest contribution to WDAV—the only contribution the station had ever received from him.

Then, during the uncertainty of the pandemic, we learned that Robert had also included the station in his will. His unexpected gift was a humbling reminder that we don’t always know how much WDAV means to our listeners.

Part of Robert’s gift helped create the WDAV Innovation Fund, which gives the station room to try new ideas. Today, the fund is helping WDAV explore new ways to reach listeners and support the arts in our community, including a project to strengthen and expand Piedmont Arts, our podcast about arts and culture across the region.

But not every legacy gift arrives as a surprise. Some reflect relationships that deepen over many years.

David, a retired pharmacist and longtime supporter, traveled with WDAV on several tours. Along the way, he got to know station staff and fellow listeners. When making his plans for the future, David chose to include WDAV alongside other organizations that mattered to him. His gift will help make the music and experiences he valued possible for future listeners.

And sometimes, we’re fortunate enough to know about someone’s generosity from the start.

Renee has been part of WDAV’s community for years. She’s a devoted listener and donor, a familiar face at station events, and a longtime volunteer. During on-air campaigns, she’s often one of the friendly voices answering the phone when other listeners call in to donate.

When Renee updated her estate plans recently, she took care of her family first, then chose to leave a percentage of her estate to WDAV. She plans to keep volunteering for years to come, knowing that her support will continue long into the future.

Because Renee told us about her plans, we can celebrate her generosity and say thank you today.

Every listener’s relationship with WDAV is different. Maybe yours began with a piece of music you never forgot, a voice that became a familiar companion, or simply years of listening.

During Make-a-Will Month, we encourage you to make or update your own plans. After taking care of the people you love, you might consider whether the organizations that have brought meaning to your life have a place in those plans, too.

If WDAV is an important part of your life, a gift in your will is one way to help ensure the music continues for future generations.

Learn more about making or updating your will and WDAV’s free Giving Docs resource.

Already included WDAV in your plans? We’d love to know so we can thank you and welcome you to the WDAV Legacy Society.

Let us know.

*Names and some identifying details have been changed to protect donor privacy.