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Jim Luerssen

Jim Luerssen

Director of Planned Giving
Department
Philanthropy
Locations
Washington, DC

Jim has been with Defenders for 19 years, including 13 in planned giving, where he helps members leave a legacy for endangered species over the long term.

Jim is passionate about wildlife and has been fortunate enough to see Yellowstone’s wolves in the wild. Witnessing these powerful and iconic animals in the wild has been a way to connect and renew his dedication to saving them and the habitat in which they roam. He considers it a privilege to work with members who are helping to ensure the survival of our native wildlife and is often amazed by the generosity of the many legacy donors he has met and spoken with throughout the years.

Jim advises donors on ways to help wildlife such as including Defenders in their wills, living trusts, making special provisions through beneficiary designation forms that direct IRA’s, qualified retirement plans, life insurance and other accounts for the benefit of wildlife. He also oversees the charitable gift annuity program helping supporters find the gift annuity plan—whether immediate or deferred, one-life or two-life—that is right for them, their loved ones and their financial needs.