This Valentine’s Day, a gift in your will is a gift that lasts
Gifts can take many forms. Some are chosen for a moment in time. Others are shaped by reflection — about the people we care about, the values we hold, and the impact we want to have beyond today.
This Valentine’s Day can be an opportunity to make a different kind of gesture — one that reflects a commitment to people and communities and helps create lasting change. Leaving a gift in your will is one way to do that. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a lasting difference.
At the heart of Special Olympics New Zealand is a clear purpose: to empower people with intellectual disabilities through sport, promoting inclusion, respect, and opportunity. It’s about creating a world where everyone is valued and given the chance to shine.
That purpose is brought to life through long-term investment in people. For some athletes, the journey begins with small steps — learning new skills, building confidence, and finding a sense of belonging. For others, it grows into opportunities to compete at national or international level, to take on leadership roles, or to improve health and wellbeing through ongoing support. Every pathway is different, but each is grounded in belief in inclusivity and potential.
The impact of this support is best understood through the experiences of families who have been part of the Special Olympics community over many years.
“My son, Michael joined Special Olympics more than thirty years ago to improve his swimming and go to competitions. He gained so much more — new sports, new friendships, opportunities for travel, the confidence to advocate for disability, and the thrill of recognition which came with trying his best. Special Olympics is life changing.”
— Merrill Holdsworth
Over time, Merrill has seen how meaningful, sustained support can shape lives — not just for one athlete, but for families and communities. She has also seen the challenge of relying on year-to-year fundraising to support programmes that require consistency and long-term commitment.
“Your legacies and donations will help build a foundation to support Special Olympics New Zealand with long-term, sustainable funding. I hope you will join me in supporting this cause.”
Meaningful change doesn’t happen overnight. It’s built gradually, through steady support and shared belief. For some supporters, leaving a gift in their will is a way to help ensure this work can continue — supporting future generations of athletes to grow in confidence, capability, and opportunity.
There is no “right” amount. Some people choose to leave a small percentage of their estate, others much more. Each decision is personal, and each gift contributes to outcomes that matter — inclusion, development, leadership, and wellbeing for people with intellectual disabilities.
Every gift — no matter the size — makes a lasting difference. And learning more doesn’t require a commitment; it’s simply an opportunity to explore how you might like to support a purpose that reflects what matters to you.
This Valentine’s Day, consider a gesture that goes beyond the moment — one that helps create lasting impact.
Learn about leaving a gift in your will
