Creating a Legacy Through Planned Giving at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Learn how to help support the Aquarium’s mission in the long term.

Day Octopus Credit: Aquarium of the Pacific/Robin Riggs

January 21, 2025

The Power of Planned Gifts

Planned gifts are transformational commitments that create lasting waves of change.

These thoughtful donations serve as powerful catalysts for the Aquarium of the Pacific’s greater purpose to protect and preserve our ocean ecosystems while educating future generations about marine life and conservation.

When you make a planned gift to the Aquarium, you’re not just making a donation – you’re investing in the future of our oceans and enabling the Aquarium to:

Maintain and enhance our world-class marine habitats
Develop innovative science-based educational programs for children and adults
Advance crucial species-specific conservation efforts and initiatives
Ensure long-term financial stability for our mission-critical work
Support rescue and rehabilitation efforts for marine animals

The Nautilus Society: A Community of Vision

The Aquarium of the Pacific’s Nautilus Society recognizes individuals who are committed to including the organization as a beneficiary in their life insurance, IRA, living trust, will, or other planned gift instruments.

Named after the remarkable nautilus, whose shell represents both natural perfection and perpetual growth, our Nautilus Society celebrates individuals who have chosen to include the Aquarium in their estate plans.

This group of approximately 50 dedicated supporters comprises of longtime volunteers who have dedicated countless hours to our mission, current and former employees who believe deeply in our work, Board members and Trustees of the Pacific who provide vital leadership, and marine education advocates and ocean conservation champions.

Members of the Nautilus Society receive distinguished recognition through multiple channels. Their enduring commitment is honored on our dedicated Aquarium walls, featured prominently on our website’s donor recognition page, and celebrated at exclusive annual events designed to showcase their invaluable support.

Creating Lasting Legacies

Each planned gift tells a unique story of passion for our ocean waters. Whether it’s supporting our penguin habitat, funding our endangered sea turtle rescue efforts, or enabling student education programs, these gifts create enduring impacts that last through generations.

How to Begin Your Legacy Journey

Explore Your Options: Visit our planned giving website. Here, you’ll find detailed information about giving options, gift planning calculators, sample bequest language, stories of impact, and frequently asked questions.
Consult Your Advisors: Discuss your charitable goals with your financial, legal, and tax advisors to determine the best giving strategy for your situation.
Contact Us: Our development team is ready to help you explore ways to create your unique legacy while supporting the causes you care about most.
Join the Nautilus Society: Once you’ve included the Aquarium in your estate plans, let us know so we can welcome you into this special group of supporters.

Already included us in your estate plan? Let Us Know. For personalized assistance with planned giving options, please contact Ryan Ashton, vice president of development, at rashton@lbaop.org.

The information provided is not intended as legal or financial advice. We encourage you to consult with your own attorney, financial advisor, and other qualified professionals when considering any planned giving options.