08/20/2026
August is Make-A-Will Month — and this year, it carries special meaning for Acterra.
This June, Acterra received the largest gift in our 56-year history: a transformational unrestricted estate gift from Bay Area architect James “Jim” Guthrie.
We didn’t know Jim well. Like many planned gifts, his began quietly — with someone who believed in the work we do and chose to make that belief part of his legacy.
Jim loved classic cars, played golf with friends and neighbors, and was remembered for his generosity and welcoming spirit. He also believed that a healthy planet was worth investing in — not only during his lifetime, but beyond it.
By including Acterra in his estate plans, Jim created a legacy that will help strengthen our organization, expand our programs, deepen our work in frontline communities, and support a healthier, more sustainable future for years to come.
Planned giving doesn’t require great wealth. It starts with deciding what matters to you and putting that intention in writing.
This Make-A-Will Month, we invite you to consider the causes and communities you want to support for generations to come.
We are deeply grateful to Jim for choosing Acterra.
James “Jim” Guthrie
August 30, 1948 – August 28, 2025
Learn more about planned giving: acterra.org/donate