How Charitable Donations and Gifts of Securities Transform Communities

As the year draws to a close, many of us reflect on ways to make a meaningful impact. At KW Habilitation, we believe that every act of generosity helps build a stronger, more inclusive community. Whether through a one-time donation, a gift of securities, or a paid-up life insurance policy, your support goes far beyond dollars—it changes lives.

Affordable Housing: Building Foundations for Inclusion

Housing is more than a roof over someone’s head—it’s the foundation for independence and dignity. KW Habilitation is proud to lead affordable housing projects that provide safe, accessible homes. These projects ensure that people can live in their own communities, close to family and friends, while receiving the supports they need.

Your donations help us:

• Develop inclusive housing options that meet diverse needs.
• Create spaces where people can live independently and feel connected.
• Reduce barriers to affordable housing for vulnerable populations.

When you give, you’re not just funding bricks and mortar—you’re building futures.

The Unique Advantage of Giving Securities

Did you know that donating publicly traded securities—such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds—can be one of the most tax-efficient ways to give? When you transfer securities directly to KW Habilitation:

• No Capital Gains Tax: You avoid paying tax on the appreciated value of the securities.
• Full Donation Receipt: You receive a charitable tax receipt for the fair market value of the securities.
• Greater Impact: More of your gift goes directly to programs that make a difference.

Gift of Paid-Up Life Insurance

Another powerful way to give is by donating a paid-up life insurance policy. If you own a policy you no longer need, you can transfer ownership to KW Habilitation. Here’s why this matters:

• Immediate Tax Receipt: You receive a charitable tax receipt for the policy’s fair market value.
• Future Impact: When the policy matures, KW Habilitation receives the full benefit—funding programs like affordable housing and employment supports.
• Simple and Meaningful: It’s an easy way to turn an existing asset into a lasting legacy.

Example: How Tax Savings Work

Imagine you purchased shares for $5,000 several years ago, and today they’re worth $15,000. If you sell them, you’d pay tax on the $10,000 gain. At a 50% inclusion rate and a marginal tax rate of 40%, that’s $2,000 in taxes.

Instead, if you donate the shares directly to KW Habilitation:

• You pay zero capital gains tax.
• You receive a $15,000 charitable tax receipt, which could reduce your taxes by up to $6,000 (depending on your tax bracket).
• KW Habilitation receives the full $15,000 to fund programs that change lives—including affordable housing initiatives.

Your Gift Creates Real Change

Every donation helps us provide essential services, create inclusive opportunities, and advocate for a world where everyone belongs. By choosing to give—whether in cash, securities, or a paid-up life insurance policy—you’re investing in a future where individuals with developmental disabilities can reach their full potential.

Ready to Make a Difference?

To learn more about ways to give, visit https://kwhab.ca/join-us/donate/ or contact the Brightside Wealth team at [email protected] Together, we can create a community where inclusion isn’t just a goal—it’s a reality.

About Patrick

Patrick Carson, CIM, RIS is the founder of Brightside Wealth, where he provides independent financial advice and leads the firm’s commitment to ethical investing. He also serves on the Board of Directors at KW Habilitation, actively contributing to the finance and fundraising committee to support affordable housing and inclusive community programs for people with developmental disabilities.