Creating Your Own Legacy

Looking to leave a legacy, but aren’t sure where to start? Follow these steps to ensure you make smart decisions with your time and money.

by Dan Blackwell for readersdigest.ca

1. Consider Your Options

Think long and hard about which charity is most deserving of resources, says Diane MacDonald, executive director of the Canadian Association of Gift Planners. “The first step is to prepare a will and to determine what charity is dear to your heart, that has meaning to you and that would meet your philanthropic goals,” she says. “Maybe you or someone you know has benefited from the service of a particular organization.

"Maybe you’re an active volunteer or believe in the mission and values of a specific group. You might want to leave a gift in memory of a loved one for a certain use.”

Websites like Leave a Legacy and CanadaHelps.org can help you find a charity, and the right people to get in touch with.

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