A legacy for rhinos: investing in conservation beyond a lifetime

We have decided to leave the majority of our assets (70%) to Save the Rhino International when we both die. If one of us dies, our combined estate goes to the remaining spouse, less a few small bequests; when the second one goes, our immediate family members will share a decent 30% between them, but the bulk will go towards Save the Rhino’s vital conservation efforts.

Here are our reasons why leaving this gift is important for us:

Firstly, we don’t think personal inheritance is a good thing. We know that may be controversial, but we think it preserves social inequality.

Why have we chosen rhinos as our focus? We strongly suggest that anyone writing their will – or planning to give away large amounts during their lifetime – should think hard about their charitable focus, and then stick with it. Ask questions: find out more about your preferred charity or cause. Supporting a favourite cause can be a really meaningful, life-long commitment, and a legacy extends that beyond one’s lifetime. To save rhinos, the skill set needed is breathtaking: logistical, technological, managerial, political, behavioural, economical and biological nous, from running informer networks to Impact Bond Financing, from financial education for rangers to the debate on the horn trade, from the use of working dogs to cryogenics. It’s an endlessly, effortlessly fascinating world, and it’s only through having a long-term connection to the cause, that we have been able to appreciate the complexity and depth of the work involved.

And lastly, why Save the Rhino International? Cathy has worked for the charity since 2001 and knows its inner workings as well as anyone. We trust Save the Rhino’s team and Trustees to spend our money wisely and effectively. Kenneth has donated multiple times over the years, volunteered at events, and come to many lectures and fundraising dinners. Together, we have run marathons and ultra-marathons to raise funds for rhino conservation, hosted dozens of field programme partners at our home in London, and seen four of the five species of rhino. Our association with Save the Rhino, and the views it has given us into the rhino world, have transformed both our lives for the better.

We truly hope rhinos will thrive on this planet long after we are dust.

Cathy and Kenneth