Introduction to Charitable Giving
Giving back isn’t just about generosity — it’s also a meaningful part of many families’ financial and estate plans. Whether you want to support causes that matter to you, involve your family in philanthropy, or reduce future taxes, charitable giving can be deeply rewarding — both emotionally and financially.
The most important motivations for giving often include:
Supporting causes you believe in
Leaving a lasting impact
Reducing taxes on appreciated investments
Building a legacy across generations
Choosing between one-time and ongoing gifts
Maximizing the value of your donations
Planning gifts through your will or estate
Some donors give spontaneously, while others develop a long-term strategy that evolves with their wealth and values. For example, donating publicly traded securities instead of cash can eliminate capital gains tax while still receiving a full donation receipt — a strategy that’s often more tax-effective than writing a cheque.
Others choose to give through donor advised funds, private foundations, or estate gifts, which allow for structured giving over time and can involve the entire family in defining a charitable mission. These options are ideal for individuals who want to create a lasting impact while receiving current or future tax benefits.
Charitable giving can also help reduce the size of your taxable estate — particularly if you’re facing capital gains or planning a business sale. By making gifts during your lifetime or through your will, you can support the organizations you care about while minimizing taxes at death.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you’re making a single donation or designing a family giving strategy, the most effective plan reflects your values, your tax situation, and your long-term financial goals.
Come visit our resources on Charitable Giving for more information.
We can help you explore your options and build a charitable giving plan that feels meaningful — and works hard for both the causes you care about and the future you’re planning.
