Among the superheroes, Batman uniquely offers no superpowers. Although trained in the martial arts, he possesses a range of high-tech gadgetry that allows him to fight crime. Nevertheless, Batman remains entirely human. This blog examines the masked crusader as a philanthropist.
However, Bruce Wayne possess something key to moonlighting as Batman: money. Heir to an enormous fortune, Wayne emerges as one of Gotham’s wealthiest citizens. A major philanthropist who donates money to various causes, neither role would work without assets.
Philanthropy & Families
Carrying on a family legacy means different things to different families. However, most heirs will not follow in the footsteps of Batman (at least when it comes to crime fighting). However, you may inspire them to be a philanthropist, like Bruce Wayne. If so, structure your estate plan to grant your loved ones the finances—and flexibility—to do good on their terms.
Batman’s Birthright
Most superheroes experience forces beyond their control. Radiation struck Spiderman and the Incredible Hulk. The X-Men harbor genetic mutations that can them as societal outcasts.Characters gave Captain America an experimental “super-soldier serum.” And Superman hailed from the alien planet Krypton.
Batman as Philanthropist: History
Bruce Wayne developed the ability to overcome powerful foes. However, he does so primarily through his personal drive and ingenuity. The Batman fictional universe is vast. And many different versions of this hero’s journey exist. In the Christopher Nolan cinematic trilogy, Bruce blames himself for his parents’ death and abandons Wayne Enterprises. Later, he travels to the Far East and trains with the League of Shadows, leaving Alfred to tend to Wayne Manor.
Batman: Pre-Philanthropist
After nearly a decade away from Gotham, Bruce returns. He accepts his place as the rightful head of Wayne Enterprises. Batman uses his company’s connections to acquire new crime-fighting technologies. Forbes ranks Wayne Enterprises as the 11th-largest fictional company, valued at more than $31 billion.
Bruce Wayne as Philanthropist
Not just a crime-fighter, Bruce Wayne spent billions to improve Gotham. The Wayne Foundation addresses social problems. So, the Thomas Wayne Foundation is focused on medicine, funding free clinics throughout Gotham. Also, the Martha Wayne Foundation supports arts and education, including orphanages and free schools.
Multiple examples exist of Bruce directing Wayne Foundation resources to help needy Gotham residents. Some argue that Bruce could have better served Gotham by turning his fortune to more philanthropic work. Yet a pivotal part of the Batman mythology is Bruce’s conclusion. He contends that giving money away to charity failed to target the root of the corruption plaguing Gotham.
Inspiring the Philanthropist in Your Life
A hospice nurse reveals that the top deathbed regrets involve people wishing they had done more for others. Ultimately, they reveal that many patients donate money to a charitable cause on their deathbeds.
What is a Philanthropist?
The good you do changes the lives of those you support. What’s more, it inspires the next generation. For example, Martha Wayne worked at a free medical clinic and organized fundraisers. Also, Thomas Wayne instructed Bruce to “honor the Wayne Family legacy, and commit (yourself) to the improvement of Gotham City. Invest in Gotham. Finally, he instructed his son to treat its people like family. Watch over them and use this money to safeguard them from forces beyond their control.
From One Philanthropist to Another
Thomas Wayne implored his son and heir to care for Gotham. However, he failed to leave detailed instructions. Thus, if he had, Bruce may have been duty bound to sit behind a desk at the Wayne Foundation and follow his late father’s dictates, rather than having the freedom to use his wealth as he saw fit. Ultimately, Gotham may have flailed.
With Great Wealth Comes Great Responsibility
In the real world, the wealthy often feel a sense of responsibility to the wider community beyond their own families. Thus, the example you set in this life resonates far into the future as your loved ones continue to give time and money to charities. Therefore, structure your estate plan to give back a family tradition, even when you are no longer around.
About Skvarna Law Firm in Glendora and Upland, California
Let a skilled attorney assist with your estate plan. Contact us today to learn about your options (909) 608-7671. We operate offices in Glendora and Upland, California. We provide legal services for individuals living in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Orange, and Riverside Counties. This includes the cities of Upland, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, Colton, Rialto, Chino, Chino Hills, Glendora, Claremont, Montclair, Pomona, La Verne, San Dimas, Azusa, Covina, West Covina, Diamond Bar, Walnut, La Puente, Corona, Norco & Mira Loma. Visit SkvarnaLaw.com to learn more.
