Planned Giving and Trust Services (PGTS) is a ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church dedicated to helping individuals and families with financial, estate, and gift planning.
“Estate planning is not just for the wealthy; it’s a vital step for everyone to ensure that their wishes are honored and their legacy is preserved, starting from the moment they begin their first job,” says Cynthia Huskins, Atlantic Union Conference Planned Giving and Trust Services and Stewardship Ministries director.
PGTS professionals regularly participate in training to stay current on financial trends and legal changes. The General Conference hosts training events in odd-numbered years, while smaller regional sessions are held during even-numbered years, hosted by union conferences such as Atlantic, Columbia, and Lake. In 2024, the Atlantic Union hosted the regional meeting at the Heritage Hotel in Southbury, Connecticut, October 21-24, 2024—the first in-person gathering for the region since 2018. Forth-five PTGS professionals representing 20 states attended the event. The weekend included devotionals, panel discussions, and breakout sessions on topics related to PGTS and stewardship.
In 2023, 40 individuals completed a rigorous 13-week certification program, including material reviews and a 200-question exam. Huskins was among this record-breaking cohort. Many of these graduates joined 45 PGTS professionals at the Connecticut training event.
“In the ever-evolving landscape of Planned Giving and Trust Services, continuing education is essential for professionals to stay informed about financial trends and legal changes,” Huskins says. “This enables us to serve our communities better and uphold the trust placed in us.”
PGTS employs various estate planning tools, including charitable gift annuities and trusts, which can protect assets from taxes and ensure they are distributed according to the individual’s wishes. Huskins also highlights the importance of donor-advised funds, allowing families to decide on philanthropic contributions collaboratively.
“Stewardship is about more than just managing resources; it’s about fostering a culture of generosity and responsibility within our communities, ensuring that we honor our commitments and leave a lasting legacy for future generations,” Huskins says.
By providing education and resources, PGTS empowers members to embrace stewardship as a spiritual and practical commitment, enriching their lives and communities.
