Like many of you, I spend time thinking about what the future might look like. More importantly, about HOW I can help build a better-looking future for the generations to come. I also spend time speaking with donors who are concerned about the future of the world, about building relationships and what might become of the things that they hold important, such as their faith community.
Creating a better world is possible. We know that people who belong and participate in churches are some of the largest and most consistent philanthropists in Canada. You are probably one of them. The thing is, though, is that you can continue to create a better world even after you are no longer here. Leaving a charitable gift in your Will may be the first step to do so. You can make a contribution to the charitable causes you care about AND your gift will make an impact well into the future.
The best part is, you don’t have to choose between those charities which are important to you and loved ones in your Will. Check out the easy-to-use legacy calculator on our Will Power page to see how you can support both.
If all this is new to you, here are the most common questions people have asked about giving in this way:
1. If I leave a charitable gift in my Will, can I still take care of my family? Yes, you can do both. A donation of as little as 1% of your estate to a charity can be a truly powerful gift, while still leaving 99% for family and friends. The legacy calculator can show you the impact of 1%, 3%, 10% or even 50%.
2. I’m not wealthy, I don’t have much to give. Most charitable bequests are left by the average Canadian. You may be surprised to find that when all of your assets are realized, you too will have a tidy sum to support both the people and causes you care about.
3. I want to know how my gift will be used. You can learn how gifts in a will have been used here. Or contact me to discuss how you’d like your gift to take shape. A Distribution Agreement can help you support a number of charities with ease. A Donor Advised Fund provides you with the option of supporting a charity over a longer period, without the high cost of creating your own foundation.
To learn more about beneficiaries, click here. For resources on common myths that may affect your Will, click here.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions or if you would like to talk through what’s involved in leaving a charitable gift in your Will to a congregation or organization within the ELCIC, their partnerships, or any other charity that is important to you. ELFEC is ready and able to assist you.
Kathryn Smith, Giving Advisor ksmith@elfec.ca 1-888-308-9460 x2
P.S. ELFEC is a faith-based, charitable organization, called to be a responsible steward, serving the individuals, congregations and organizations within the ELCIC, their partnerships and their evolving communities. We are a proud partner in Will Power, a national campaign inspiring Canadians to use the power of their Wills to change the world.