The Larsen Group

Circles of Change:  Conversations with Dr. Zara Larsen

on Change Leadership and Career Fulfillment

September 17, 2008

“Peace of Mind through Planning; Satisfaction through Service”

Guest:  Elizabeth Spilotro, Estate Planning and President, Junior League of Tucson

Anchoring Points:

1.  EVERYONE needs an estate plan, if you have even the slightest motivation to arrange your affairs to make it easier on those you love when you die.  You can offer peace of mind to others by planning in advance of the grief, loss and confusion upon your parting.  A living will, legal and medical powers of attorney, guardianship of your children, irrevocable trusts, and distribution of assets.

2.  An estate plan can also make it easier for someone to manage your affairs if you become disabled, peace of mind for care givers of which 60% are known to suffer from clinical depression today.  The plan should be reviewed every three to four years.

3.  This is not an act of “buying a product”; but, the first step in developing a long-term relationship with a trusted advisor.  People with minor children, blended families, divorces or single parents, same sex relationships, and parents with children who have special needs (disabilities, dependencies, mental health issues, judgment issues) must have the advice of a professional to develop a financially and legally robust course of action.

4.  My leadership career and sense of community have been so enhanced by participation in the Junior League of Tucson, celebrating its 75^th year.  Our purpose it to develop the potential of women, promote voluntarism, and improve the community through the effective action of trained volunteers.

• What our over 550 active and sustaining members give to the community is not dollars, but brains.  Around 80% of our members work full or part time.
• Our women leverage their skills for different careers and different causes.
• We are actively engaged in improving the lives of Tucson’s independent seniors, intent on service efforts to build a better community for all ages through direct services, advocacy, and education.