Legacy Giving
Your legacy will ensure a future for nature in Ontario.
Common loon © Peter Ferguson
A Love of Nature Lives On
“Our whole family loves nature, thanks to my Dad. We talked openly about his charitable giving plans. We knew that he remembered Ontario Nature – and a few others – in his Will. These charities spoke to his hope for the world. And his decision to protect nature with a gift in his Will means as much to us as it did to him. We’re proud of him, and it’s a wonderful way to remember him, knowing he’d be so pleased that his gift continues to inspire kids and Ontarians of all ages to experience the joy and wonder of nature.“
– Nancy Hannah Bodsworth, talking about her late father, Fred, esteemed novelist, naturalist and author of Last of the Curlews
Bodsworth family studying plants
The Basics of Legacy Giving
We strongly advise you to talk to a lawyer or estate planner before confirming your legacy to Ontario Nature.
Ontario Nature is listed on Canada Revenue Agency under our legal name, Federation of Ontario Naturalists. Our charitable registration number is 10737 8952 RR0001. Our address is Ontario Nature @ Centre for Social Innovation, 720 Bathurst Street,
Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2R4.
Here is some sample language: “I direct my trustees to give the sum of $ ___ or ___ % of my Estate (or the residue of my Estate) to the Federation of Ontario Naturalists operating as Ontario Nature to be used for its general charitable purposes.”
Eva Kratochvil, For Nature Forever Circle member (left) and Kavita Dogra (right) © Nicole Chamula
Piping plover and chick © Brendan Toews
For Nature Forever Circle Stories
This dedicated group of nature lovers have chosen to include Ontario Nature in their estate plans. They know that their future gift will keep our voice for nature strong for years to come. We are deeply grateful that these donors have chosen to translate their passion for nature into a lasting charitable gift.
The Nelson Family Celebrating Patricia Nelson’s legacy gift
Your Legacy, Your Values, Your Will
Here we are sharing 4 steps to help you get started. We hope this information is helpful for you as you have conversations with your loved ones and with your advisors.
Step 1: Review your assets. This includes your home, your valuables, your investments and more.
Step 2: Remember your loved ones. Consider what you wish to leave for your family or others.
Step 3: Reflect on your values and your passions. Your gift can be used to acquire and conserve land, protect at-risk species or support our youth education program. We invite you to talk to us about what you hope your gift will accomplish.
Step 4: With the help of your loved ones and advisors, create or update your Will and consider what type of legacy gift is best for you.
Anita and Stan Caveney, For Nature Forever Circle members
More Resources For You
Ontario Nature is partnering with the Will Power campaign, an initiative that is bringing together more than 400 charities, financial advisors and lawyers to educate Canadians on how they can leave a legacy to a cause they care about and take care of the ones they love through a gift in their Will.
Click here to visit the Ontario Nature’s Will Power charity page and learn more about leaving a legacy.
- Ontario Nature Guide to Legacy Giving
- Our Donor Promise
- Sample Codicil
- Epilogue and Willful provide online Will services
- Are you a lawyer or financial advisor?
Here to Help!
Thank you for your enduring confidence in our work. I’m inspired by your stories and honoured to help Ontario Nature members and their families give in ways that align with your values and your unique needs. You are welcome to contact me for a confidential conversation.
Kirsten Dahl, Director of Development, 1-416-444-8419 ext. 235.
Colin Bain (left) Kirsten Dahl (right), Petrel Point Nature Reserve © Patti Henderson