Current Campaigns - Leave a Legacy

Everyone hopes to leave something lasting in this lifetime that will make a positive difference for future generations.

Planned giving is arranging a meaningful gift to a charitable organization like the Conservation Foundation in your long-term financial planning. Planned gifts are usually arranged now, but are received by the charity in the future.

Gifts by Will
Next to writing a check, perhaps the best known vehicle for philanthropy is the bequest. A bequest establishes your wishes today without relinquishing needed assets during your lifetime.

You may bequest cash, property, specific assets or establish trusts when preparing your will. The philanthropic spirit is given a voice when wishes are expressed in the Will.

Gifts of Property
You may feel strongly that your special land should be conserved for the benefit of the environment and for future generations. A gift of personal property or real estate can be made at any time, but often there is comfort in holding such assets until estate distribution. In either case, an income tax receipt will be issued for the appraised value of the property.
For those who wish to retain ownership of their property but seek future protection of it, other techniques are possible. The conservation options available – title donation, conservation easements, management agreement or fee-simple purchase – mean individuals or corporations can make donations that suit both donor and recipient needs and give both some control. Making a donation of property does not necessarily mean severing the connection donors and their families have with the land. In some cases, a donor may arrange an agreement to continue to live on the donated land. And, in the case of conservation easements, the donor retains ownership of the property.

Additionally, if you own ecologically sensitive land, Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program helps donors and recipients of land ensure that their legacy is protected in perpetuity by certifying land donations as ecological gifts. Private and corporate landowners who donate a conservation easement or full title to their land through the program can receive a donation receipt for the value of the gift which can be used against 100 per cent of their annual income. The unused portion of this receipt can be carried forward up to five subsequent years.

The tax benefits of making a gift of property will vary with each donor’s circumstances. We strongly suggest that all donors seek independent income tax advice.

Life Insurance Policies
There are many options for making a gift of life insurance. You may transfer ownership of an existing policy, sign over a partially paid policy or purchase a new policy and make the Conservation Foundation the owner. All three options can provide for a generous future gift while offering immediate tax relief. The method you choose will depend on your preference and circumstance.

Endowment Funds
An endowment is an investment fund set aside for long term support of a charitable organization. The principle is protected and only the income, or a portion of the income is expended. The use of the income is controlled either by the donor’s restrictions or by the Foundation’s Board or Directors. The capital is held in perpetuity, that is, forever.

An endowment provides financial stability for the organization, makes long range planning possible because of a predictable stream of income and protects an organization in years when other revenue is reduced.

A named endowment fund may be a way of memoralizing and honouring a beloved family member, friend or colleague. Many endowment named funds also designate the income for a specific purpose. The minimum amount required to establish a named endowment fund with the Conservation Foundation is $10,000. General or unrestricted endowment gifts in any amount will also be accepted.

What You Should Know:

Whether you think of yourself as rich or poor, or somewhere in between, your gift can make a difference. Even a small amount can have a big impact over time.

In considering planned giving options it’s important to know that you can take care of your family first and also support the Conservation Foundation. Some people think you must choose between leaving a gift to their family or their favourite charity. You can do both.

By supporting the Conservation Foundation today, you also touch the future. You will be creating your vision for a better world long after your lifetime. The work of the Conservation Foundation and the lives we touch, can be your legacy.

Make an Informed Choice….

We encourage you to consult with qualified legal and financial advisors regarding your particular circumstance.

For more information please contact:

Terri LeRoux at 905-670-1615 x247 or email Terri at tleroux@creditvalleycons.com