When Giving Lives On
Ken Park • January 11, 2021
WHEN GIVING LIVES ON;
Remembering a Kindness Two Centuries Before
How long can an act of charity last? In Midleton, Ireland, the answer is 170 years, and
counting.
In 1847, the Choctaw Nation heard about the number of Irish families starving during the
potato famine. The Choctaws were the first tribe to be relocated during the Trail of Tears, being
forcibly marched thousands of miles from Mississippi to Oklahoma. Having already lost
thousands of their own during that extended trek, the Choctaw people felt an empathy with those
starving in Ireland, and donated $170 towards their plight, an amount that would be equivalent to
$5000 today.
While there are no records of exactly what that $170 purchased in immediate relief, the long-
term ‘return on investment’ is undeniably stunning. In 2020, hundreds of Irish people
contributed to a charity fund for two Native American tribes that were especially hard hit by the
Covid-19 pandemic. At last report, hundreds of thousands of dollars had been donated from
Ireland, with many contributors citing the historic generosity of the Choctaw as motivation. (The
current fund-raising sent to the Navajo Nation and the Hopi Reservation will be targeted towards
securing clean water, food and health supplies.)
While the coronavirus has been a worldwide phenomenon, the Navajo Nation was one of the
worst hotspots in the United States. At the time of the donation, there had been more than 2,700
cases and 70 deaths. (A scarcity of running water, high cases of diseases such as diabetes, and
several multigenerational households all contributed to the virus spreading so quickly throughout
the community.)
One donor, an Apple administrator in Cork City explained his feelings succinctly. “I’d already
known what the Choctaw did in the famine, so short a time after they’d been through the Trail of
Tears. It always struck me for its kindness and generosity and I see that too in the Irish people. It
seemed the right time to try and pay it back’
The GoFundMe organizers response was swift and heartfelt. One post said simply, “Thank
you, IRELAND, for showing solidarity and being here for us.” Another cited just how
remarkable it was to have these “acts of kindness from indigenous ancestors passed being
reciprocated nearly 200 years later through blood memory and interconnectedness.”
The chief of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Gary Batton summed it up by saying that the
tribe was “gratified — and perhaps not at all surprised — to learn of the assistance our special
friends, the Irish, are giving to the Navajo and Hopi Nations...We have become kindred spirits
with the Irish in the years since the Irish potato famine,” he said.
As in so many cases, it was a single organic spark that ignited the wave of charity. A
communications director for the fundraiser believes that the nearly half a million dollars from
\Ireland began with a single post on Twitter describing the plight of the Choctaw Nation, and
their historical connection to Ireland.
In one way, it may not be surprising that the suffering of a disadvantaged people in Oklahoma
might resonate in Ireland: one million Irish people, mostly poor tenant farmers, died of hunger or
disease from 1845 to 1849, while another million or so emigrated. But the basis of charity is to
care even when you are not directly affected; the Choctaw were not the only community to care.
Donations reportedly came in from a prison ship in London, former slaves in the Caribbean and
prisoners in Sing Sing.
Does the spirit of generosity and caring actually give life to a future spirit of charity? The
communications director for the fundraiser answers with an emphatic Yes. “The Choctaw
ancestors planted that seed a long time ago, based off the same fundamental belief of helping
someone else.” Consider how your current act of kindness and caring could likewise inspire
somebody to do the same, nearly two hundred years in the future. We know for a fact that it can,
and has, happened.
When planning for the future, many people think about how they can make a meaningful impact even after they’re gone. Incorporating a charitable bequest in your will is one way to achieve this goal. It offers you the opportunity to extend your generosity, ensuring the causes you care about continue to thrive beyond your lifetime. This blog explores what charitable bequests are, the benefits they can provide, and how organizations like Link Charity Canada can simplify the process of integrating philanthropy into your estate planning. Understanding Charitable Bequests A charitable bequest is a gift specified in your will or estate plan that directs some portion of your estate to a specific charity or charitable cause. These gifts can take on various forms, which makes them versatile and accessible to donors from all walks of life. Types of Charitable Bequests Specific Bequests: These indicate a particular dollar amount or a specific item to be donated. For example, you might leave $10,000 or a piece of artwork to a favoured charity. Percentage Bequests: This specifies a percentage of your total estate to be gifted. For instance, you might decide to allocate 10% of your estate to a nonprofit organization. Residual Bequests: These bequests involve donating the remainder of your estate after other beneficiaries have received their share. Residual bequests ensure your intended heirs are prioritized, while still leaving a gift for charity. Contingent Bequests: A contingent bequest only takes effect under specific conditions. For instance, you might name a charity as a beneficiary if your primary beneficiary passes away before you. Gifts of Securities or Assets: Charitable bequests aren’t limited to cash. You can donate stocks, bonds, real estate, or even shares in a business, providing financial benefits for both you and the beneficiary. The Benefits of Charitable Bequests Including charitable bequests in your estate plan offers personal and financial rewards, creating a win-win scenario that can leave an enduring legacy. 1. Support the Causes You Care About A charitable bequest is one of the most powerful ways to reflect your values. Whether you’re passionate about education, healthcare, environmental protection, or religious missions, your bequest ensures these causes receive the support they need. 2. Create a Lasting Legacy Donations to charity through your estate extend your generosity far into the future. This legacy demonstrates a commitment to making the world a better place, inspiring your loved ones and community. 3. Tax Advantages There are practical perks to adding philanthropy to your estate plan. Gifts made to registered charities typically qualify for tax exemptions that can reduce the taxable value of your estate, resulting in more savings for other beneficiaries. Gifting publicly traded securities can also help you sidestep capital gains tax, maximizing the impact of your donation. 4. Flexibility Life circumstances evolve, and so can your charitable intentions. Bequests are easily adjusted through updates to your will, ensuring your legacy adapts to reflect your values and priorities over time. 5. Ease for Executors By clearly stating your charitable intentions in your will, you minimize administrative burdens and provide clear instructions for your executor. This reduces confusion and the potential for disputes. How Link Charity Canada Can Help Managing an estate and including charitable bequests can feel overwhelming. That’s where organizations like Link Charity Canada come in. They streamline and simplify the process, helping donors maximize the value of their gifts and their impact on the causes they care about. 1. Donor-Advised Funds One of Link Charity’s standout offerings is their donor-advised fund. This service consolidates your charitable giving, allowing you to direct all gifts through one account. It offers flexibility, ensuring that multiple charities can benefit from one plan, while also giving you the ability to amend your instructions without revisiting your will. Here’s how it works: You make a single bequest to Link Charity Canada. Then, via a letter of direction, you specify how and where the funds should be distributed. You can revise your instructions at any time without needing costly legal amendments to your will. 2. Tax Benefits and Strategic Planning Link Charity specializes in helping you maximize the tax advantages of your charitable giving. For example: Donating securities like stocks or bonds through your estate can eliminate the capital gains tax on appreciated value. Your estate receives a tax receipt for the full current value of the gift. Donations can offset estate taxes, leaving more of your estate to heirs and charities. Their experienced advisors guide you through these options, ensuring you get the maximum tax benefits while effectively supporting your chosen causes. 3. Legacy and Estate Planning The advisors at Link Charity understand how important it is to honor your wishes. They work closely with you to plan a charitable legacy that reflects your passions and leaves a meaningful impact. Whether you want to benefit local charities, religious institutions, or educational organizations, their expertise ensures your gifts are handled with care and respect for your intentions. 4. Anonymous Giving Options If you prefer discretion, Link Charity allows for anonymous giving. This ensures that you can support meaningful causes while retaining your privacy. For full information on Charity Bequest, please visit our Charity Bequests .
When it comes to financial planning, the word “annuity” often gets thrown around. However, not everyone is familiar with the term, and even fewer people know the difference between a standard annuity and a charitable annuity. While both offer unique benefits, they serve entirely different purposes. Whether you're looking to secure a steady stream of income or make a lasting impact through philanthropy, understanding these options is essential. What is an Annuity? An annuity is a financial product that provides regular payments over a specific period. Typically issued by an insurance company, annuities can be a great solution for those looking for reliable passive income, especially during retirement. Types of Annuities: Fixed Annuities: Provide a guaranteed payout, offering financial stability. Variable Annuities: Payment amounts may vary depending on the performance of your investment portfolio. Immediate Annuities: Begin payouts almost immediately after deposit, perfect for those who need income now. Deferred Annuities: Allow you to accumulate money over time before withdrawals. Annuities’ main appeal lies in their ability to guarantee predictable income for life or a set number of years. However, a standard annuity is purely a financial product with no philanthropic component. What is a Charitable Annuity? A charitable annuity, also known as a charitable gift annuity, combines the benefits of an annuity with the joys of giving back to a cause you care deeply about. With this arrangement, you make a gift to a charity, such as Link Charity, in exchange for fixed payments for the rest of your life (or for a specified term). Once the agreement ends (usually upon your passing), the remaining portion of the donation is retained by the charity to further its mission Key Features of a Charitable Gift Annuity: Philanthropy: Giving to a cause you care about while receiving financial benefits. Lifetime Payments: Similar to standard annuities, charitable annuities provide regular income payments. Tax Benefits: Donors typically qualify for a partial charitable tax deduction at the time of the gift. Legacy Creation: You leave a lasting impact that goes beyond your lifetime. With a charitable annuity, you’re not just securing income for yourself; you’re creating a ripple of positive change that outlives you. Charitable Annuity vs. Annuity: A Quick Comparison
How to Use Your Will as a Gift-Giving Tool
Understanding Charitable Gift Annuities
Ensuring Your Wishes Are Fulfilled Through Your Will
Reasons to Choose Link Charity as Your Beneficiary
When planning your estate, the decisions you make today can have a lasting impact on your family, loved ones, and the causes you care deeply about. Including gifting options in your will is one way to ensure your legacy aligns with your values, while providing financial support to the people and charities most important to you. Whether you're a Baby Boomer, an estate planner, or a family heir, understanding how will gifting works—and the many benefits it offers—can empower you to make informed decisions about your estate. Organizations like Link Charity Canada Inc. make it easier than ever to incorporate charitable bequests into your planning, providing you with flexible and impactful options.
Have you ever thought about how philanthropic giving can make a profound difference not only in your community but also in your personal life? Through a charitable gift annuity offered by Link Charity Canada, you can support meaningful causes, enjoy financial benefits, and experience the emotional rewards of giving—all at the same time. This unique form of giving combines the joy of philanthropy with a secure financial return, making it an appealing option for donors who want to contribute to society while taking care of their own future.
Philanthropy is a significant part of your life. It's a reflection of your values and the legacy you wish to leave behind. However, ensuring that your beloved charities are named in your Will requires careful planning and attention to detail. Why It's Important to Ensure Your Will is Correct Now 1. Clarity of Intentions A properly structured Will serves as a clear guide to your intentions, eliminating any ambiguity or misinterpretation. When your charitable desires are explicitly stated, it ensures that your wishes will be honored, providing peace of mind. Whether you're supporting education, healthcare, environmental causes, or any other mission, clarity in your Will ensures that your contributions make the intended impact. 2. Avoiding Legal Challenges Ambiguities or omissions in your Will could lead to legal disputes among beneficiaries. By clearly naming your chosen charities, you minimize the risk of contested claims, ensuring that your assets are distributed as you desire. It's crucial to consult with an attorney specializing in estate planning to ensure all legal formalities are observed. 3. Tax Benefits Naming charities in your Will can offer tax advantages, potentially reducing the estate tax burden. This maximizes the value of your bequests to both family and philanthropic causes. A knowledgeable estate planner can guide you through the tax implications and benefits of including charitable donations in your Will. 4. Flexibility and Updates Circumstances and priorities change over time. Regularly reviewing and updating your Will allows you to adjust your charitable contributions as your interests evolve or as specific needs within the charitable sector change. Remember, it's not only about adding new charities but perhaps reallocating your contributions in light of changing circumstances. 5. Strengthening Your Legacy Charitable giving through your Will enhances your legacy, extending your impact beyond your lifetime. It's a testament to your commitment to the causes you care deeply about, inspiring others in your community to consider their own philanthropic journeys. A well-planned charitable bequest can also amplify the reach of your chosen organizations, enabling them to continue their work with renewed vigor. Steps to Ensure Your Charities are Properly Named 1. Consult with a Professional Engage with an attorney or estate planner who has experience in charitable giving, like Link Charity. They can provide invaluable insights into structuring your Will to meet your giving goals effectively. 2. Specify Charities Clearly Include full legal names of the charities, their registered addresses, and any other pertinent details to avoid confusion or misinterpretation. 3. Consider Charitable Trusts or Funds If you wish to make ongoing contributions, consider setting up a charitable trust or fund. This can provide a structured approach to long-term giving. 4. Maintain a List of Charitable Organizations Keep a list of all the charities you support, and update this regularly as you make changes to your giving strategy. 5. Communicate with Your Chosen Charities Inform the charities of your intentions. This not only builds a relationship but ensures they are aware of your planned contribution and can plan accordingly. By ensuring your beloved charities are named in your Will, you provide them with critical support that can sustain their missions long after your passing. It's a meaningful way to continue your philanthropic efforts, reinforcing your values and leaving a lasting legacy. To start this process, consider consulting with an estate planning professional today. Make your philanthropic intentions clear, and ensure that your legacy of generosity lives on. Link Charity will walk you through the process of making sure your charities are named in your Will so there will be no questions asked and confusion. Link Charity Canada Inc. 647-435-7243 1-800-387-8146
Leaving a mark that outlives you is a powerful way to impact the world positively. This is where bequest planning comes into play, particularly when choosing a charity to include in your will. Whether driven by a desire to support a favorite cause or ensure a brighter future for others, selecting where your charitable donations go is a crucial decision. This guide will help you to find a charity that aligns with your values, ensuring your legacy supports a cause you genuinely care about.
