C R E A T E A L E G A C Y
Through this model, Alice McKay's
$1,000 has grown to $1.3 million.
"It is interesting that the $1,000 is still
at work," Hikida says. "When we look at
a mature endowment model, the amount
generated will overtake the amount given,
and the gift lasts forever."
Charities looking for stability typically
look at two revenue streams—ongoing
fundraising and a steady stream of
background income used to further the
mission of the organization. Having a
steady reliable income stream can take
the pressure off an organization's annual
campaign needs.
As an example, during the height of
COVID-19 in BC, the charitable sector took
a hit, and Vancouver Foundation was there
to help. "We were able to activate funds
and support the charitable sector very
quickly because of donor gifts left years ago
and entrusted to us," Hikida says. "Those
donors trusted us to understand our
community needs and how to support the
most vulnerable."
Findlay adds that leaving a legacy is a
personal decision that should be made with
the whole family so everyone understands
it. "If they understand what their family
member was passionate about, hopefully
they will take the torch and carry it
forward," he says.
"People never have to choose whether
to support their family or their favourite
causes—they can do both," du Bois says.
"And the donor knows that even after
they are gone, the charities that they've
supported in their lifetime will continue
their work. What a wonderful way to be
remembered."
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Photos courtesy of TB Vets
Hazel Durance (Left)
Baby Hazel in Ventilator (Above)
COPD Patient Francoise Brisebois
(Below)
