Help Us Grow Greener Communities

Support our mission

Legacy Giving

As a parent or grandparent, you know that leaving a legacy for your loved ones means more than just passing down material possessions. It means creating a world that's healthier, cleaner, and more sustainable - a world where future generations can thrive.

And one of the best ways to do that is by leaving a gift in your will to support the Green Cities Foundation. By doing so, you'll be helping to make our cities greener, which can have a big impact on the health and wellbeing of your children and grandchildren.

From cleaner air to safer water and more green spaces to enjoy, your gift can make a real difference in the world. And when you reference our Charitable Registration Number 83177 8410 RR0001, you can be sure that your gift will be used in the most effective way possible.

So if you're looking for a way to leave a lasting impact on the world and create a better future for your loved ones, consider making a planned gift to the Green Cities Foundation today. Together, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future for all.

Life Insurance

Life insurance can benefit both the donor and the mission of Green Cities Foundation when the Foundation is named beneficiary.  Upon death, the proceeds pass outside your estate, providing both privacy and protection from estate administration taxes (formerly known as probate fees), and the charitable tax receipt issued will reduce the tax burden on your estate.  It’s also possible to donate a new or existing policy during your lifetime, irrevocably making the Foundation both owner and beneficiary, in which case you will receive a charitable tax receipt from Green Cities Foundation for the fair market value or cash surrender value on the policy when donated, as well as for any future premiums you pay.

Gifts made by Will

Bequests are gifts made through your Will.  You can leave a specific amount of money, a piece of property or a portion of your estate residue.  Since you can claim up to 100% of your income on your final tax return and carry back any excess to the previous year, the tax relief created by an estate gift can be significant.  The cost for an experienced estate lawyer to create a well-drafted, valid Will is small, given the peace of mind provided by knowing it is done properly.

Charitable Gift Annuities

A Charitable Gift Annuity is an attractive option for older donors, allowing them to collect annuity payments for the rest of their life, while at the same time benefiting Green Cities Foundation. Part of the donor’s gift (typically up to 25% of the total value) is an immediate donation to the Foundation for which a tax receipt is issued. Green Cities Foundation then uses the remaining funds to purchase a commercial annuity on the life of the donor and that annuity pays the donor income, largely tax exempt, for their lifetime.

Donating RRSPs and RRIFs

When Green Cities Foundation is designated as beneficiary of your RRSP or RRIF, the proceeds are paid directly, bypassing your estate and avoiding estate administration taxes. The charitable income tax receipt issued will eliminate most if not all of the significant tax generated by the realization of your registered plan upon your death.

Other planned gifts

There are other planned gifts, such as Charitable Remainder Trusts and donations of real estate or cultural property, which are more complex. Talk to your advisors to create this type of meaningful gift.