While it is certainly true that we have our challenges, by and large Canadians experience a remarkable quality of life. Much of what we enjoy is a legacy from the past. From public infrastructure to a culture of tolerance, previous generations have built a society that is the envy of the world. We know our good fortune is largely bound up in our surroundings. That’s why it is so gratifying when people remember their community as part of philanthropic planning.
William Alloway captured this sentiment in the following words when he made the first gift to create The Winnipeg Foundation in 1921. He wrote:
“Since I first set foot in Winnipeg 51 years ago, Winnipeg has been my home and has done more for me than it may ever be in my power to repay. I owe everything to this community and feel it should receive some benefit from what I have been able to accumulate.”
Just recently, we received a similar message, by way of a bequest, from Kenneth Stoddart who lived in England. His will provides “a small gift to recognize my father’s debt to Winnipeg and Western Canada.” Upon further research, we learned that his father, who died in 1961, had once been an active member of the Winnipeg Grain Exchange.
Both Mr. Alloway and Mr. Stoddart understood that leaving a legacy for the future is a wonderful way to acknowledge the past. Recognizing that all of us owe a great deal to previous generations and the community in which we live, the Foundation is working in partnership with our colleague Manitoba community foundations on a campaign called “Endow Manitoba.” Our goal through this public information initiative is to raise awareness throughout the Province that legacy gifts are important to the future well being of our communities. The project will be launched this fall.
Mr. Alloway, Mr. Stoddart and hundreds of others chose to support future generations in our community through a bequest to The Winnipeg Foundation. Donors who are planning future gifts to the Foundation are invited to join our Legacy Circle. For information, please click here.
