Baby Boomers and planned giving: A very special generation or just typical old people?

Baby Boomers are often described as a uniquely generous generation poised to drive a historic wave of charitable bequests. But what does the data actually show? In this research-driven presentation, Dr. Russell James, JD, PhD, CFP®, Professor of Personal Financial Planning at Texas Tech University, examines the statistics and behavioral psychology behind planned giving among Baby Boomers. Drawing on decades of longitudinal research, Dr. James explores how age, family structure, education levels, and demographic trends influence charitable estate planning. He challenges common assumptions about generational generosity and highlights the factors that most strongly predict charitable bequests—including the powerful role of childlessness, donor engagement, and decision-making later in life.

Participants will gain a clearer understanding of how demographic realities—not just generational identity—shape planned giving outcomes and what this means for fundraisers working with the largest aging cohort in U.S. history.