Over 200 years of history are preserved in Mission San Luis Rey, California's "King of the Missions". Naming Mission San Luis Rey as the charitable beneficiary in planned giving allows members of the Mission Legacy Guild to contribute significant support for the future of the Mission.

Fund Development's purpose is to increase support for the Mission's operation and programs. This includes creating beneficial partnerships with our local business community, organizations, donors and other stakeholders.

Our goals are:

• Preserving the unique, historical Mission artwork and paintings,

• Revitalizing the beautiful gardens and landscaping,

• Renovating the historic archways,

• Obtaining city water for safety and convenience,

• Seismically retrofit the National Historic Landmark buildings,

• Upgrading and expanding the 4th-grade mission experience.

Old Mission San Luis Rey is an active Mission providing cultural, educational, historical and spiritual programs to the community and visitors from around the world. We must consistently seek funding for these ongoing projects through the support of private foundations, corporations, individuals and fund-raising events. As you can imagine, operating and maintaining a historic site is costly. Old Mission San Luis Rey is a registered National Historic Landmark, yet it does not receive public funding for general operations and is not supported by Catholic Diocesan funds. Renovations to the buildings and property for modern safety standards (seismic retrofitting) and the preservation of the old structures require considerable funding... much more than the revenue that can be generated from our Museum tours or the Retreat Center and Cemetery. The Mission depends on volunteer support and the generosity of private donors, corporate partnerships, major fund-raising events, and grants to continue as a significant historic and cultural landmark.

Mission Legacy Guild

The term "planned giving" refers to charitable gifts that require some planning before they are made. Planned gifts are popular because they can provide valuable tax benefits and/or income for life. Whether a donor uses cash or other assets, such as real estate, artwork, or partnership interests, the benefits of funding a planned gift can make this type of charitable giving very attractive to both the donor and charity.

Many of our supporters make charitable gifts by naming Mission San Luis Rey as a beneficiary in their will. The federal government encourages these gifts and bequests, by allowing an unlimited tax-deductible charitable donation. Here are five possible ways you can make a Mission Legacy Guild Bequest:

1. Fixed-Dollar Bequest. You designate a specific amount to Mission San Luis Rey. This option is often best in cases of smaller bequests.

2. Leaving a Percentage. Some people choose to leave Mission San Luis Rey a set percentage of the estate.

3. Residual Bequest. Your estate will pay all debts, taxes, expenses, and specific bequests. The remaining amount--the residual--will be transferred to Mission San Luis Rey.

4. Bequest of Property. A donor may choose to leave Mission San Luis Rey a particular piece of real property or tangible personal property, such as jewelry, automobiles, art or other assets. Great care should be taken accurately to describe the intended property and the other interest bequeathed, if it is not the entire ownership interest.

5. Designation as Beneficiary of Your Life Insurance or Retirement

Some people choose to create their Mission Legacy gift by designating Mission San Luis Rey as beneficiary of their life insurance or retirement accounts. Through your commitment of support, you reach beyond time and help carry on the spiritual, cultural, historical, and educational presence of Mission San Luis Rey for generations and generations to come. Although a National Historic Landmark, Mission San Luis Rey receives no public funding for general operations. It is entirely dependent upon donations, fundraisers and grants. By joining the Friends of the Mission, your donation allows the Mission to carry on an educational, historical, cultural and spiritual presence within the community.

Varying levels of member benefits include free admission to Mission San Luis Rey, guest passes to share your experience with friends, tickets to our annual gala and valuable discounts. Benefits are commensurate with the level of membership. Thank you for helping preserve Mission San Luis Rey for future generations.