By Shaunna Graf
At Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, we love celebrating the connections between people, place, and the legacies that grow across generations. That is one reason we are especially excited to partner with Shannon Fauver of Fauver Law Office, PLLC, for our upcoming Free Virtual Will Workshop on Tuesday, August 18.
For Shannon, Bernheim is more than a beautiful forest. It is part of her family’s story.
Her family has called Kentucky home for more than 200 years, and their roots run deep at Bernheim. One of her uncles served as a ranger here, helping care for the forest and welcome visitors. Another family connection still lives on here today. A nut tree in the arboretum bears the name of one of her aunts. Long before Shannon became an attorney, her family’s story was already intertwined with the land, trees, and traditions that make Bernheim such a special place.
That lifelong connection to Kentucky and its people helped shape Shannon’s career. After serving in the Peace Corps, she wanted to continue helping others and decided to attend law school. Her mission stayed the same, but her tools changed. Today, she has spent more than 20 years running her own practice, Fauver Law Office, PLLC, where she helps individuals and families navigate estate planning and prepare for the future.
Estate planning can sometimes feel like a topic we would rather save for “someday.” If we are honest, it can also feel overwhelming.
As someone in a blended family, I know that feeling firsthand. When it came time to figure out where to start with a will, why I needed a trust, and just how many options existed for putting my plans together, I quickly realized there was a lot more to the process than I expected. I am still getting all my legal ducks in a row, but I do at least have a foundation.
Along the way, I have started documenting personal property and the stories behind the items in my home that matter. My hope is that one day it will help my children understand not only what has financial or “tangible” value, but also what has sentimental value and why those items were important to our family.
In many ways, that process reminds me of Bernheim. We preserve more than trees, wildlife and landscapes. We preserve stories, connections, and a sense of belonging that can be passed from one generation to the next.
Gain Helpful Planning Information in this Free Virtual Workshop
We are proud to partner with Shannon during Make-A-Will Month. On Tuesday, August 18 at 5:30 p.m., she will lead a free virtual workshop designed to help participants understand why having a will matters, what information to gather before meeting with an attorney, and how recent changes to Kentucky law make this an important time to review your plans. Whether you are starting from scratch or revisiting plans you made years ago, this workshop offers a helpful first step. The workshop is educational in nature and does not provide legal advice. Registration is required.
At Bernheim, we often talk about stewardship. We care for forests, wildlife, and natural spaces so they can thrive for generations to come. Estate planning is another form of stewardship. It is about thoughtfully caring for the future, creating clarity for loved ones, and ensuring that the values you hold today continue to make an impact tomorrow.
We hope you will join us for this informative conversation with a partner whose Kentucky roots run nearly as deep as some of Bernheim’s trees.
Free Virtual Will Workshop
Tuesday, August 18 | 5:30 p.m. | Virtual | Free
In recognition of Make-A-Will Month, Bernheim Forest and Arboretum invites you to a free virtual workshop to help you get started with creating a will. Learn why planning matters, what to consider before meeting with an attorney, and how recent changes to Kentucky law may affect your plans. Registration is required and space is limited.
Like a tree planted today can benefit future generations, thoughtful planning today can help your loved ones tomorrow.
August is National Make-A-Will Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness about the importance of creating a will and encouraging people to take action. Regardless of the size of your estate, having a will ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones and favorite causes are protected.
