Legacy giving is a meaningful way to support the Thunder Bay Community Foundation while creating a lasting impact in the community you care about. By including the Foundation in your will—you help ensure that future generations continue to benefit from strong local programs and initiatives.
Although these conversations may be challenging to begin, advance planning helps reduce uncertainty and eases the responsibility placed on family members and trusted advisors. Clearly articulated intentions ensure that your wishes are understood and respectfully carried forward.
Plan your Giving
Decide what type of legacy gift best reflects your values and the impact you want to make.
Write your Will
Include the Thunder Bay Community Foundation in your bequests or estate plans to create a lasting gift.
Consult a Professional
Seek guidance from a lawyer, financial advisor, or estate planner to ensure your gift is structured correctly.
Contact us!
Connect with our team so we can help you make your legacy gift provide meaningful support as you intend.
The Legacy Giving Planner
A legacy gift allows your intention to live on, creating an impact long into the future. Through this planner, we support you on that journey, helping you reflect, plan, and create a legacy of generosity that endures beyond a lifetime.
LEGACY STORIES
Why our Donors Give
We worked hard, had successful careers, and now we have the resources to give back. We can’t change everyone’s life, but we can make a difference in some – and that matters. We chose to leave a gift in our Wills to the Community Foundation because it has a huge breadth that nobody else has when it comes to helping the community and funds so many organizations; it’s not just giving money to one. They’re a very well-run organization, and the way they invest is really positive and they do a very good job.
Lesley Bell & Rod Morrison
Legacy Donors & Fundholders
Watch the video to hear their stories and learn more.
WITH A CLEAR PURPOSE
Specific Bequest
A specific bequest allows you to leave a fixed amount of money, property, or other asset to the Foundation through your will. This is one of the most common and straightforward ways to support the causes you care about.
GIVE WHAT REMAINS
Residual Bequest
A residual bequest designates all or a portion of the remaining assets in your estate after debts, taxes, and other specific gifts have been distributed. This option allows you to support the Foundation while still prioritizing loved ones.
GIFT WITH FLEXIBILITY
Contingent Bequest
A contingent bequest takes effect only if certain conditions are met such as if another beneficiary is unable to receive their gift. This allows you to include the Foundation in your plans while maintaining flexibility
MAKE IT LAST FOREVER
Plan a legacy gift that continues to make a difference long into the future.
ABOUT LEGACY GIVING
Frequently Asked Questions
At the Thunder Bay Community Foundation, we work alongside individuals and families to inspire and facilitate meaningful philanthropy. Reach out to us to learn more.
What types of gifts can I include in my Will?
Legacy gifts can take many forms, including specific dollar amounts, a percentage of your estate, securities, insurance policies, real estate, or other assets.
Do I need a lawyer or financial advisor to set up a legacy gift?
While it’s not required, consulting a lawyer, financial advisor, or estate planner ensures your bequest is structured correctly and aligns with your overall legacy plans.
Can I direct my legacy gift to a specific Fund or cause?
Yes! You can choose to donate to n existing Fund or to the Foundation’s general endowment. You may also establish a named or endowed Fund of your own.
We work with donors to ensure gifts reflect their values while maximizing community impact.
How will the Foundation recognize or honor my legacy gift?
We respect every donor’s wishes. Many donors choose to be recognized through naming opportunities for funds. Others prefer to remain anonymous. Whatever your choice, your gift will make a lasting difference in the community.