The decision to include healthcare in your estate planning creates meaningful, long-term support for your community's medical needs. At Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation (JBHF), legacy gifts help ensure exceptional healthcare remains accessible for future generations.
"Legacy gifts can benefit the estate through tax advantages while establishing long-term support for healthcare in our community," explains David Henderson, Partner at Agro Zaffiro LLP and JBH Foundation Board member. "When donors include the Foundation in their estate planning, they're making a strategic decision that can benefits both their family and their community's future."
Naming JBHF as a beneficiary of a legacy gift is a powerful act of generosity, an investment that will ensure continued exceptional healthcare for our community. To date, more than $39M in legacy gifts have enabled crucial medical advancements, including vital equipment such as patient monitoring systems, infant baby warmers, and chemotherapy pumps.
Understanding Legacy Giving
Legacy giving extends beyond traditional charitable donations. These gifts represent careful planning and strategic decision-making that can benefit both the donor and the healthcare system. Donors can name JBHF as the beneficiary of cash, securities, real estate, life insurance, or a percentage of one's estate, and their estate will receive a charitable tax receipt that can lower or even eliminate estate taxes.
Financial Planning Considerations
"Proper estate planning allows donors to support both their families and their chosen causes," Henderson notes. "Many donors discover they can make a larger impact than initially thought while still achieving their personal financial goals."
There are many ways donors can take care of their family while supporting a cause close to their heart. JBHF encourages donors to consult with professionals regarding estate and financial planning options, including:
- The long-term impact you’d like your gift to have
- Leaving a bequest in a will
- Donating appreciated stocks or securities
- Naming JBHF as the direct beneficiary of a RRSP, RRIF, or life insurance policy
The Impact on Local Healthcare
Joseph Brant Hospital serves as the primary healthcare provider for our growing community. Legacy gifts provide a stable and predictable source of funding that supports long-term projects and initiatives, such as:
- New facilities
- Redevelopment and expansion projects
- Purchase of state-of-the-art equipment
Planning Your Legacy
Henderson emphasizes the importance of thoughtful planning: "Legacy planning involves important conversations with loved ones. These discussions ensure your wishes are understood and help family members appreciate the impact of your healthcare support."
Key steps in planning your legacy:
- Consider what aspects of healthcare matter most to you
- Consult with financial advisors about strategies to maximize your gift
- Work with legal experts experienced in estate planning
- Document your wishes clearly
- Review and update your estate plan regularly
- Communicate openly with your family about your decisions
The Joseph Brant Society
The Joseph Brant Society (JBS) welcomes donors who have included JBHF in their estate plans. Members receive:
- A commemorative Joseph Brant Society pin
- Annual recognition offerings
- Invitations to special events
- Regular updates on hospital successes and priorities
Throughout the year, JBS members stay connected to the hospital's mission through regular communications and updates, reinforcing the importance of supporting innovative and leading-practice healthcare in Burlington.
Join an Upcoming Webinar
JBH Foundation is hosting an upcoming webinar from 9:30 - 10:30 am on November 27 features David Henderson and Dr. Ian Preyra, Chief of Staff at JBH, who will address common questions about estate planning and legacy giving options. Attendees will gain valuable insights into:
- Estate planning strategies
- Having important conversations with loved ones
- How legacy gifts support the hospital's future priorities and programs
For more information about legacy giving and estate planning, please contact Emma Fitzpatrick, Associate Director, Major & Planned Giving at [email protected] or 905-632-3737 ext. 5542.
