With a mission to inform, empower, celebrate and advocate for British Columbia's current and aspiring business leaders, BCBusiness go behind the headlines and bring readers face to face with the key issues and people driving business in B.C.
Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/347582
P r o m o t e d C o n t e n t clinicians are highly trained, caring for over 175 rare diseases and conditions and administering over 150 different types of medications," explains McNeil. "But now more than ever, with our additional location in Abbotsford, Canuck Place relies on the support of individuals to raise the needed funds and to retain the professional expertise required to provide complex clinical care for children and the families who love them." Also catering to children, the Children's Wish Foundation of Canada grants heartfelt wishes to children with high-risk or life-threatening illnesses. "Every day, we are inspired by the power of wish," says Jennifer Petersen, director of the B.C. and Yukon chapter. "One of our wish children who recently completed a travel wish described it best, saying, 'I forgot I was sick.'" Whether it's a brand-new playhouse, a trip to Disneyland or meeting a real-life princess, wishes truly do work wonders, says Petersen. "By leaving a legacy to Children's Wish, you can help create a sustainable future for wish granting in Canada, and help bring immeasurable joy to a seriously ill child." Conservation Causes The B.C. Wildlife Federation is the oldest and largest conservation organization in the province, and its mission is to ensure the sound long-term management of British Columbia's ish, wildlife and outdoor recreational resources, and to educate British Columbians on the value of those resources. Donations to the B.C. Wildlife Federation are used to fund a variety of critical conservation initiatives, including strategic advocacy work with government and the Wetlands Education Program, says development co-ordinator Sarah McNeil. As well, "Wetland Wild Kidz and Go Wild! Youth for Conservation programs provide children and teenagers an opportunity to explore and learn about their natural environment, teach stewardship and conservation principles, and develop leadership skills," adds McNeil. "Another popular program, Becoming an Outdoors Woman, teaches women outdoor skills and conservation stewardship techniques in a fun, relaxed and non-competitive atmosphere." With such a variety of initiatives to support, donors can personalize their bequest to make it even more meaningful. "If you want to have your funds directed to a speciic project or program, we are happy to work with donors," says McNeil. "Spend some time reviewing our website, attending events or reading newsletters and updates, and pick a program or an initiative that speaks to you." Leaving a Legacy Whatever cause you choose to support, make sure both you and the charitable organization can make the most of your donation. "Charitable gifts are governed by the Income Tax Act and the rules are fairly complex, so it's important that the person you consult be knowledgeable on the subject," says Sandra Enticknap, partner with Miller Thomson LLP. Miller Thomson is a national law irm with a focus on "We care for over 560 newborns, children and teens with life-threatening illnesses and their families through outreach programs and two hospice locations. Canuck Place is currently serving only 20 to 25 per cent of the provincial need. We need to reach the 75 to 80 per cent of children and families we are not yet able to care for." – Margaret McNeil, CEO, Canuck Place