There’s a phrase most of us know well: may their memory be a blessing. It’s something we say to honor those we’ve lost, but it also reminds us that the impact of our life continues long after we are gone. It begs the question: What kind of blessing will we leave behind?   

August is Make a Will Month, and it’s a good moment to sit with that question in a warm, practical, you’ve-got-this kind of way. Because estate planning isn’t really about paperwork. It’s about love. It’s about looking at the people who matter most to you and saying: I thought about you. I made a plan.  The JCC is hosting an informational session with two local estate lawyers on August 26 to help answer these questions. 

In Jewish tradition, this kind of intentionality has always mattered. Caring for future generations, passing down wisdom and values, building something that outlasts us. These aren’t abstract ideals; they are values woven into how we live and how we care for one another. Estate planning, seen through that lens, is an act of Jewish continuity.  

Meet Sarah Morris 

Sarah Morris is an estate planning attorney, a Denver Jewish community member, and a mom. Growing up here and now raising her own family, she knows firsthand how fast life moves after you have kids, and how quickly “I’ll get to that” can turn into years. 

Through her practice, Sarah helps individuals and families create the documents that protect what matters most: who will care for your children if something happens to you, who can make decisions on your behalf, how your values and wishes get carried forward. She approaches it as a conversation about real life, recognizing that no two families look exactly alike.  

She also teaches the quarterly Estate Planning for New Parents class through Jewish Baby University, where she works to make a heavy topic feel manageable for families during an already overwhelming season of life. 

The Misconceptions That Hold People Back 

One of the most common things Sarah hears? “I’ll do that when we have more.” But most estate planning documents have little to do with wealth. They are about clarity: naming a guardian, establishing a trust for minor children, making sure your family isn’t left navigating burdensome and costly court systems during an already painful time.  

The other big one: “I’ll get to it later.” Early planning is a gift to your future self. Having the documents in place means less time worrying about worst-case scenarios and more time just living your life. 

“Within Jewish tradition,” Sarah says, “there is a deep emphasis on passing blessings, wisdom, and longevity from one generation to the next.” This work is about making intentional choices, right now, that protect the people you love. 

Come Ask Your Questions — No Pressure, No Paperwork 

To mark Make a Will Month, Sarah Morris and fellow estate planning attorney Rachael Kamlet will be at the JCC Denver on Wednesday, August 26th at 9:00 AM for informal open hours. Stop by, ask questions, and learn the basics in a relaxed, no-obligation setting.  A JCC staff member will be present to discuss creating a legacy gift and answer questions about being a part of the JCC 1922 society.  

This is a community conversation, not a legal consultation—think of it as a friendly first step. 

Planning for the future may feel overwhelming, but it’s ultimately about the people we love most and making sure they are cared for, no matter what tomorrow brings. 

*This event is intended for educational purposes and general estate planning discussions. Individualized legal advice will not be provided, and legal documents will not be prepared on-site.