Planned Giving Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Leaving A Gift

Do I have to include my wish to leave a gift to Wood's Homes in my will?

To be certain that Wood's receives the gift, you should state your intentions in your will. Without a will, you lose control over your belongings after death. Your property and finances are settled according to provincial laws, whether or not they coincide with family wishes.

Must I have an estate in order to leave a gift?

An estate is simply a word used to describe any property, money or personal belongings that you may have at the time of your death. Most people leave an estate when they die, even though they may not have a great deal of wealth. Anyone can arrange to leave a charitable gift from their estate.

"The gates were open for my family when there was nowhere else to turn. Now I've made a provision to leave a portion of my estate to Wood's Homes, so the gates may remain open for others."

How do I leave a gift for an organization that I admire?

You can arrange for a gift in several ways, the most common being through a will. Many people set aside a certain dollar amount. Others leave a percentage of their estate, or any assets left over after their family has been provided for. Some people give something they own like a car or their home. Others leave a paid up life insurance policy or other financial investment.

Who can help me arrange for a gift?

If there is a professional you trust like a financial planner, lawyer, accountant or insurance agent, talk with them about leaving a gift. A professional can tell you about the tax benefits of planned gifts. You can also call Wood's for help.

How do I leave a gift in memory of a person or for a specific purpose?

A gift is a wonderful way to recognize someone who has made a difference in your life. You may also want to give to a specific program or to a new building. This kind of memorial gift can be arranged in your will, the same way that you would leave a personal gift from your estate. You just need to make it clear that the gift is given in memory of a particular person or for a specific use.

Do I tell Wood's Homes I've left a will?

That is up to you. Wood's would like to know in advance so we can recognize your generosity. We can also tell you about specific opportunities for giving. Whether you let wood's know of your plans or not, is your decision to make.

"When my wife died, my children and I wanted to do something lasting for her. That's why we donated a portion of her estate to fund a project that she believed in. Now her memory will live on."

"I've been volunteering for Wood's Homes for many years. When I'm gone, I want to do something special. My financial advisor suggested I name Wood's as the beneficiary of my life insurance. It makes me feel good knowing they'll continue to get my help."

Getting Started

If leaving a legacy is of interest to you, take the next step.

Think about your interest in Wood's and consider whether you would like to leave an unrestricted gift to Wood's Homes or would you prefer to donate to a particular Wood's program that you believe in? Will your gift be in the form of money or do you have securities or property that could of benefit for years to follow?

If you would like to know more about Wood's or our individual programs, call us. We can help you better understand what we do and which giving opportunities best match your interest.

Contact your professional advisor for help. Your advisor can make sure you are getting the maximum tax and legal advantages allowed for your gift. If you do not have one, contact a professional organization in your area.

Your Gift is a Lasting Tribute

Wood's Homes plays an important role in Alberta, extending help in many ways, from long term residential care, to community clinics for youth and families.

Help may also come in the form of specialized educational programs or an opportunity for street youth to reconnect with their families.

But the truth is that Wood's Homes needs financial assistance from people like you in order to continue our good work.

When you leave a Legacy, you make sure that help continues to be there for those who need it.

Leave a Legacy

Alberta is a very caring place to live. Many people volunteer regularly and give financially to Wood's Homes. When they're gone, their support is sorely missed.

By leaving a legacy through a gift in your will, you can continue to help Wood's Homes help children and families in the years that follow.

When you Leave a Legacy, you improve our quality of life.