Valerie

Like many whose childhoods were populated by Howdy Doody and Ed Sullivan, Valerie’s devotion to animals was first inspired by Zippy the Chimp. Although she carried a plush toy version as a toddler, the adult Valerie would likely protest the chimpanzee’s exploitation as a TV star.

In addition to advocating for an end to the use of animals for entertainment, Valerie (a recently retired pediatric physical therapist) also thinks it’s time to stop using them in research and to transform conditions under which they are raised for food. Of the latter, she notes: “I want to be their voice due to the immensity of their suffering and the unimaginable numbers that are killed.”

Issues such as these have informed her charitable giving, too. “I have been impressed that the Humane Society of the United States took on root causes of animal suffering,” says Valerie, a longtime supporter whose lengthy advocate resume spans three decades.

“They essentially changed the food and agricultural systems of our country through ballot initiatives to end intensive confinement and corporate practices related to farm animal welfare. I know my money will be used effectively.” Valerie has taken a simple—yet impactful—step to help animals far into the future: She named the HSUS as a beneficiary of her IRA. Valerie’s heirs will avoid both estate and income taxes. Moreover, beneficiary designations bypass the often lengthy and expensive probate process, so her gift will go to work quickly.

Naming the HSUS in your will is an easy and flexible way to extend your support for animals far into the future. To learn more about this and other ways to create your humane legacy, please contact the Office of Planned Giving at humanelegacy@humanesociety.org or 1-800-808-7858, or visit legacy.humanesociety.org/request.