It can be awkward to talk about and it’s something none of really wants to think about, but it’s so important to have a Will. They make sure that your family will be taken care of and that there will be no questions as to where you wanted the results of a lifetime’s worth of work and experience to go.
Wills are also a means for you to leave a legacy in your community and continue to support the causes that matter most to you, even after you’re gone. Starting this month, the Victoria Foundation has partnered with a national campaign, Will Power, to encourage everyone to think of their favourite charities when you write your Will.
You’ll see this tagline as part of the campaign: your Will can make a difference in your community. And it’s true. We have been honoured to receive many donations via Wills over the years, the contributions from which have played a critical role in the work we’re able to do in the community and the organizations we’re able to support. Many other donors have made it known to us that after their lifetime they have included the Foundation in their Will, and we’re humbled by their kindness.
But this isn’t just about the Victoria Foundation. I would encourage anyone writing their Will to consider the organizations and causes you’re passionate about. In this spirit, the Victoria Foundation has also sponsored five other local charitable organizations to take part in the campaign: the Belfry Theatre, Habitat Acquisition Trust, Island Prostate Centre, Surrounded by Cedar Child & Family Services, and Victoria Women’s Transition House. Each has a page on the Will Power website for you to explore and learn more about these incredible organizations.
These are but a few of the many worthy charities in our region who would gratefully honour your wishes. To learn more about leaving a gift in your Will and about Will Power, please visit willpower.ca.
This month, I’d also like to take a moment to let you know about the upcoming launch of the 2021 Victoria’s Vital Signs! This is always a big moment for us every year, and we would be thrilled if you would join us for the online launch on Tuesday, October 5 at 9am. The launch will feature information from the report, a lively panel discussion on this year’s theme of Equity and Inclusion, and some featured musical performances from local talent.
We hope you can join us by visiting victoriafoundation.bc.ca that morning and clicking the link on our homepage. And be sure to look out for the 2021 Vital Signs report in locations throughout the community starting October 5, or online at victoriafoundation.bc.ca/vital-signs.
Sandra Richardson is CEO of the Victoria Foundation.
Sandra@victoriafoundation.bc.ca
