Your Voice Matters: Upcoming Voter Rights Restoration Clinic

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i voted stickers

For most of us, the right to vote has been a part of our adult lives. It seems weird to think about not having the ability to cast a ballot. But, imagine if you lost your right to vote and had to take even extra steps to get it back? This is the reality for more than 50,000 Iowans, according to a 2016 report from The Sentencing Project. Indeed, Iowa is one of two states (the other is Kentucky) in the country that imposes permanent disenfranchisement for people, even after they’ve served their sentence and completed all probation requirements. (You may have seen the recent news when Florida passed an amendment giving Floridians who were previously denied voting rights the ability to register to vote.) I believe it’s incredibly important for all people to exercise their right to vote and thus want to draw attention to an upcoming opportunity at The University of Iowa for those who have had their voting rights revoked due to a felony conviction. (While I’m not personally involved, I know people who are!)

i voted sticker red

Iowans who have lost their voting rights can restore them only through submitting a “Right to Vote and Hold Public Office” application to the Office of the Governor. The Governor then has the discretion to restore voting rights. (Governor Reynolds has restored the voting rights for 88 people since taking office in 2017.) While certainly a hurdle, the good news is that the state has recently streamlined the application to make it easier to complete. Additionally, Governor Reynolds has made public statements calling for a constitutional amendment to do away with the state’s lifetime ban on voting for felons, but that would take at least a couple legislative sessions for actual adoption per the state’s amendment process.

Voting Rights Restoration Clinic Info

In the meantime, the application is still essential for people looking to restore their voting and ability to hold public office rights. The University of Iowa Legal Clinic is hosting an opportunity for application assistance and advice for anyone interested. See the image below for more information and contact the Clinic at 319-335-9023 to reserve a spot. (Note: if you’re not able to participate on March 2, 2019, there are other opportunities for the Clinic to offer assistance, so don’t hesitate to call.)

voter rights restoration clinic

 

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Need a Speaker? Drop Me a Line!

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Gordon Fischer speaking at event

One aspect of running my own firm that I love is getting out and teaching groups of people. Just like mission, my presentations center on maximizing charitable giving. Be it through estate planning education, nonprofit board training, or sharing tools and resources for professional advisors, I’m always open to speaking at different organizations and events across the state of Iowa.

Gordon Fischer speaking at event

Here’s an example of a presentation I gave in a workshop open to the public, entitled “Basics of Estate Planning.” This presentation on clauses to include in an executive’s contract was focused toward a different audience—nonprofit employers. And just in case those samples weren’t enough, here’s a presentation I gave to my fellow estate planners on effectively including digital assets in plans. Of course, I modify my content so it’s applicable to the event, organization, and audience.

So, if you’re in need of a speaker on any topic related to my core services, don’t hesitate to shoot me an email at gordon@gordonfischerlawfirm.com or give me a call at 515-371-6077 to discuss your upcoming event and potential speaking topics.

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Nonprofit Events and Opportunities in October & November

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events on calendar

Halloween and Thanksgiving aren’t the only things you should be looking forward to in October and November! I like to help spread the word about all the awesome events, awards, and grants available in Iowa. There are so many great opportunities for nonprofit pros, board members, volunteers, and donors, that range from webinars to workshops. But, life is busy, and it can be hard to keep track of what you should register for or put on your calendar. That’s why I compiled a list for your convenience!

Learning Events & Trainings

Grants

There are so many great events and opportunities for nonprofits and the people that advance them that there is no doubt I missed some in the list above. Please feel free to add applicable events for October and November in the comments below! If you would like to notify GFLF of any upcoming nonprofit-focused events and opportunities in the coming months, don’t hesitate to email GFLF’s Chief Content Officer at mackensie@gordonfischerlawfirm.com.

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Join GFLF at Falls Prevention Awareness, Health & Resource Fair

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I would love to meet you this Friday at the Falls Prevention Awareness, Health & Resource Fair where I’ll have a table full of valuable estate planning information and time to get to know you and hear your about your goals for the future! The Fair will start at 10 a.m. and go until 1 p.m. Friday, September 21 at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center (1220 1st Avenue, Coralville, IA).

This event is sponsored by the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Trauma Program, the Visiting Nurse Association, Johnson County Livable Communities, and partially funded by The Community Foundation of Johnson County.

The free event is open to the public and includes the chance to win one of five door prizes!

Fall Prevention Fair

Planning to attend? Tell me in the comments below! Can’t make it? Don’t worry! I’m always available to assist with your estate planning needs from start to finish. Contact me via email (gordon@gordonfischerlawfirm.com) or by phone (515-371-6077). Plus, I offer a free one-hour consultation!

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Upcoming Estate Planning-Related Event: Dying-Well Dialogues

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two people holding hands on white background
I make it a goal to regularly share public events in the community related to GFLF’s core services. Seize the day and mark your calendar for CARTHA‘s Dying-Well Dialogues, on September 18, 2018 from 7-9 p.m. at the University Club in Iowa City. The event is free and open to the public.
Cartha Logo
The conversation at the event will center on coping skills and raising awareness about the challenges faced by patients, families, and caregivers during the end-of-life phase in both Iowa and India. A moderated dialogue will take place between physicians, academics, practitioners, and community volunteers.
Undoubtedly these conversations tie in to your estate planning decisions, including what you want outlined in your disposition of final remains document. This dialogue may also help you have your own important conversations with your family to share your wishes for the future.
Dr. M.R. Rajagopal, who is considered the father of the palliative care/hospice movement in India, will be the featured speaker. Plus, Dr. Anne Broderick of the Iowa City VA will deliver the speaker introduction. The evening will also feature desserts, music, and poetry.
Multiple community groups came together to lend support to the event, including Iowa City Hospice, The Bird House, and India Association of Iowa City Area, among others. Additional information can be found on the event flyer.
Interested in attending? Please RSVP to Usha Balakrish at usha.iowa@gmail.com or call/text 319-331-8103.
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Estate Planning Event at Iowa State Bar Association

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red chairs in conference room

Undoubtedly knowledge is power when it comes to understanding how different laws directly affect you. Indeed, living in a modern society mean that an interplay of laws govern pretty much every aspect of our lives in one way or another—even when it comes to death. That’s why I’m dedicated to breaking down terms (like in my “legal word of the day” series) and explaining processes (like how to form a 501(c)(3) in Iowa) related to GFLF’s core services. Because even if you’re not an attorney, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t/can’t learn about the interplay of different laws  Similarly, I think it’s important to get the word out about events in the community that can help grow knowledge on important topics like estate planning.

The Iowa State Bar Association (ISBA) announced they’re producing a seminar series called the “People’s Law School.” The first public information event will focus on three super important estate planning elements:

While the seminar is being billed as one for “older Iowan issues,” I have to remind that everyone needs an estate plan! Even young professionals and definitely married couples. Definitely people with kids and people with pets! Even college students can benefit from putting a power of attorney in place. And, especially working and middle-class folks need a up-to-date estate plan.

What We Talk About When We Talk About Estate Planning

At the seminar, attendees can have a living will or medical power of attorney form notarized at the event if they bring their completed documents.

The session will be held 5:30-7 p.m. on September 19 at the ISBA Headquarters in Des Moines. Interested? You can register online here.

According to their website, the ISBA will “identify other topics of public interest and host similar seminars in the future,” so be on the look out for other upcoming opportunities to learn more about the law as a part of your life.

If you’ve dropped all the excuses and committed to making your estate plan happen, that’s great! It’s easy to get started with my free Estate Plan Questionnaire. Questions or want to discuss your estate? Don’t hesitate to contact me via email or by phone at 515-371-6077.

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Nonprofit Events and Opportunities in August & September

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calendar on desk

Beyond my own information and resources I love offering Iowa nonprofits for free (like this board responsibilities handout or this nonprofit formation guide), I like to call attention to all the awesome events, awards, and grants available. There are so many great opportunities for Iowan nonprofit pros, board members, volunteers, and donors, that range from conferences to workshops, and grant applications to award nominations. But, life is busy, and it can be hard to keep track of what you should register for or put on your calendar. That’s why I compiled a list for your convenience:

Learning Events & Trainings

Awards

  • The AARP is accepting nominations for the 2018 Andrus Award for Community Service. AARP’s most-prestigious volunteer tribute recognizes outstanding individuals who are sharing their experience, talents and skills to enrich the lives of others.
    Nominations are due August 10.

Grants

  • Storey Kenworthy Foundation for Giving is accepting grant applications for five $5000 awards. The scope of giving priorities includes: “Honoring our Heroes, Medical Research and Support, Children & Education.” Application period available through August 31.
  • Nonprofits that on families, education or the environment are invited to apply for a grant from the Alliant Energy Foundation. Applications are accepted through September 1.
  •  Tourism-related entities (including nonprofits) based in Iowa can apply for the Iowa Tourism Grant Program. Awards range from $500 to $5,000 and require a 25% cash match. There is $150,000 available for the fiscal year 2019 grant cycle. Applications are due September 12.
  • The Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation launching a grant opportunity for small to mid-sized towns and cities. Up to 15 grantees will be awarded $25,000 each in matching funds to produce their own free outdoor concert series. The prospective series should feature a diverse line-up of quality entertainment for people of different ages and backgrounds. Finalists are chosen through online public voting. Grant applications are due by September 25.

hands on phone with calendar app

There are so many great events and opportunities for nonprofits that there is no doubt I missed some in the list above. Please feel free to add applicable events for August and September in the comments below! If you would like to notify GFLF of any upcoming nonprofit-focused events and opportunities in the coming months, don’t hesitate to email GFLF’s Chief Content Officer at mackensie@gordonfischerlawfirm.com.

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August is National Make-A-Will Month

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August includes it’s fair share of obscure “holidays” including National Catfish Month, Friendship Week, and Bad Poetry Day. This month is also your chance to celebrate National Make-A-Will Month! (Yes, seriously. This is a thing.) I recommend celebrating this quite literal month by creating an estate plan. A will is one of six key documents in a quality, individualized estate plan. (If you were to elect to make a living revocable trust a part of your plan, then you would still need a will—often referred to as a pour-over will—it would just read a little different!)

national make-a-will month

Depending on your personal/family situation and assets, a will can be a bit more complicated and longer in page length than the other estate plan documents. It’s important you work with a lawyer experienced in estate planning to be sure your will covers the three major questions of:

  1. Who do you want to be the executor of your will? The executor is in charge of carrying out your directions and wishes as expressed in the will. They will also pay any outstanding debts and distribute assets as you express in the document.
  2. Who do you want to be the legal guardians for your minor children until they’re adults (age 18), if something were happen to you?
  3. What do you want done with both your tangible and intangible property? (An example of tangible property is your books or your boat. Intangible property includes assets like stocks.)

Yet another reason to work with a professional estate planner to craft a will is to avoid costly mistakes and to legitimately donate to your favorite charities.

YOU Are a Super Hero: Charitable Giving Through Estate Planning

Why Does a Will Matter?

I cannot reinforce enough that everyone NEEDS a will. Leaving your family and friends without a clearly written will in place can result in worst case scenarios such as litigation or confusion in who is to be the proper guardian of your minor child(ren). Real world examples of this are unfortunately all too common and no one is immune. For instance, Prince died without a will leaving family infighting and conflict.

Think Estate Planning is Just for the Wealthy? Think Again!

Without a will the Iowa probate court is forced to name an executor and there is the possibility that the appointed executor is not who you would have chosen. It’s simply better not to gamble with who has control over dispersing your hard earned assets.

Regular Revisions

If you already have a will (and other necessary estate planning documents) congrats! You’re better prepared for the inevitable than about half of Americans. Yet, just because you created an estate plan at one point doesn’t mean it automatically adapts to how your life changes.

While estate plans never expire, for your will to be most effective it needs to be reviewed at least annually and updated as needed. Common scenarios for estate plan revisions can be a death in the family, change in marriage status, birth of a child, major changes in financial situation, and moving out of state.

5 Scenarios for Estate Planning Revisions

Your estate plan should also be updated if your goals change over time. For example, you may want to alter the amounts of inheritance or increase/decrease charitable bequests.

Where There’s a Will There’s a Way

I would love to help you solidify your family’s future, help you achieve peace of mind, and celebrate Make-A-Will Month in the best way you can! The best place to start is by filling out my Estate Plan Questionnaire. It’s easy, free, and there’s no obligation. It’s simply a document that gets you thinking and planning. You can also contact me at any time via email (Gordon@gordonfischerlawfirm.com) or phone 515-371-6077.

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SBA Office of Advocacy Iowa Regional Regulatory Reform Roundtables

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people around table and computer

An opportunity for Iowa small business owners came across my desk that I want to share with as many people as possible!

The Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Advocacy is hosting a series of free, public roundtables across the U.S. They have three upcoming opportunities for Iowans.SBA Office of Advocacy

The schedule is as follows:

Council Bluffs, IA – Tuesday, July 17

Time: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM CDT

Location: Mid-America Center, 1 Arena Way, Council Bluffs, IA 51501

Link to register

West Des Moines, IA – Wednesday, July 18

Time: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM CDT

Location: Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines, 5505 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines, IA 50266

Link to register

Dubuque, IA – Thursday, July 19

Time: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM CDT

Location: Holiday Inn Dubuque/Galena, 450 Main St., Dubuque, IA 52001

Link to register

What’s the purpose of these roundtables?

The Regional Regulatory Reform Roundtables will be a chance for small business owners and operators to share their regulation concerns with SBA Office of Advocacy senior staff.

As stated by the SBA Office of Advocacy, the Regional Regulatory Reform Roundtables will have the following goals:

  1. Identify regional small business regulatory issues in order to assist agencies with regulatory reform and reduction in compliance with Executive Orders 13771 & 13777;
  2. Compile crucial information for Advocacy’s new report on existing small business regulatory burdens across the nation, identifying specific recommendations for regulatory changes based upon first-hand accounts from small businesses across the country; and
  3. Inform and educate the small business public as to how Advocacy and SBA can assist them with their small business goals

What is the SBA Office of Advocacy?

The SBA Office of Advocacy is an independent office that wears many hats in representing the needs and concerns of U.S. small businesses before the federal government, judicial system, and in working with state policymakers. For instance, the Office serves as a source of small business statistics and acts as a watchdog for the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

What does GFLF have to do with small business owners?

Beyond passing along events and opportunities such as this, Gordon Fischer Law Firm works with Iowa business owners to help them put in place sound succession and estate plans. Whether it’s a tax-exempt or for-profit, GFLF can help leaders of Iowa entities ensure their operations are set-up for success in the future.

Questions? Comments? Don’t hesitate to contact GFLF.

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Upcoming Presentation: Succession Success, Business Planning in Six Simple Steps

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I’m excited to present an upcoming Expert Edge Seminar hosted by the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce. The presentation topic, Succession Success: Business Planning in Six Simple Steps, is super important and relevant for entrepreneurs and business owners. 

Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce Logo

Why? Because taking calculated risks in business is often smart, but taking risks with the future of your business is a gamble you don’t want to chance.

Business owners should certainly have a personal estate plan, but also a business succession plan as well.

Through my practice I’ve worked with many business owners (and nonprofit leaders) on the “what, why, and how” of planning for a lasting legacy. My (interesting, engaging, and not boring) presentation will include the important elements:

  • What is a “business will?”
  • Why do you need a business succession plan?
  • How can your small business support your favorite charities and your retirement simultaneously?
  • Six essential steps for succession success

Take some time out of your work day to invest in your future; I would love to see you at the presentation on Wednesday September 13, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. The cost includes lunch and is $15 for members and $25 for non-members. The location will be at the beautiful BioVentures Center, 2500 Crosspark Road, Coralville.

Definitely save your spot for what should be an informative, interesting, and even fun lunch hour. Click here to register on the Iowa City Chamber of Commerce website.

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