Published Thursday, April 9, 2026
Since 1993, Franklin Park Conservatory has been dedicated to connecting people to nature and creating life-enhancing experiences that inspire learning, creativity and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Much of that continuity is made possible by individuals who choose to support the Conservatory not only during their lifetimes, but also through thoughtful legacy planning honored through membership in the Heirloom Society.
One of those individuals is Jill, who has been connected to the Conservatory since her very first visit during Ameriflora in 1992. Her relationship with the Conservatory is unique, as she is not only a frequent visitor and supporter, but also a dedicated member of our team. Since 2017, you may have seen Jill working as an Educator, leading school programs for scouts and local K-12 classes, supporting special events, facilitating adult classes and even helping manage the Blooms & Butterflies exhibition. Her work has touched thousands of learners and visitors across the Columbus community. And as Jill shares, “educating the public on the wonders of our natural world is truly a passion of mine.”
Pictured: Jill teaching a Home School program in the John F. Wolfe Palm House
Through these experiences, the Conservatory became more than a workplace for Jill. It became a place she returned to often to experience the beauty, inspiration and sense of community that the Conservatory provides.
As Jill began thinking about her long‑term plans, she reflected on the organizations that had shaped her personally and professionally. Including the Conservatory in her estate plans felt like a natural extension of her values, her longstanding relationship with the Conservatory and her belief in the importance of connecting people to nature. “Giving a future gift is a rather simple process,” she explains. “You don’t have to give large amounts to make a truly lasting difference.”
Estate planning provides many benefits:
- Ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes
- Providing support and security for loved ones
- Offering flexible options that align with your financial goals
- Creating opportunities for tax advantaged strategies
For Jill, a legacy gift became a way to invest in the long‑term wellbeing of the community she has served for nearly a decade. “I’m honored to invest in this Columbus treasure, and to help ensure its cultural and historical integrity for years to come,” she reflects, expressing her commitment to keeping the Conservatory a vibrant and inspiring place for future generations.
Those who include the Conservatory in their estate plans are recognized as members of the Heirloom Society, honoring their commitment to the Conservatory’s future. Their generosity fuels initiatives far into the future, like advancing innovative educational programs, expanding access to nature for new audiences, supporting dynamic new art exhibitions, and safeguarding the green spaces that will inspire generations still to come.
To support individuals exploring their own estate planning, we’ve introduced a new online guide that offers clear, accessible information: Start Your Legacy.
This resource allows you to:
- Explore options: Learn about bequests, beneficiary designations and other legacy giving approaches
- Compare strategies: Understand how different plans can support your goals and the people you care about
- Take next steps: Access sample language and guidance for conversations with advisors
To learn more about legacy gifts and estate planning, visit the Start Your Legacy estate planning guide. If you have already included the Conservatory in your estate, please share the good news! And if Jill’s story has inspired you to consider planning your own legacy, we would be honored to talk about this with you. To discuss a planned gift or to notify us of your gift intent, please contact Marly Coldiron, Individual Giving Manager, at [email protected].
