The holiday season is a time of magic, generosity, and reflection. It’s also the perfect moment to give back to the causes that inspire you. Whether it’s preserving nature, supporting your local community, or making a global impact, your contributions can transform the mission of a charity you love.
If you’re ready to make a difference, here are six impactful ways to give:
1. Donate Online
Making a donation online is often the simplest way to support a charity. Most organizations have a prominent “Donate” button on their website. For example, on the Escarpment Corridor Alliance (ECA) website, you’ll find a link to a secure third-party donation page.
💡 Pro Tip: While third-party platforms sometimes deduct processing fees, many allow you to cover the fee, ensuring the full amount goes to the charity. Whether it’s a Giving Tuesday gift or a year-end tax-deductible donation, every contribution counts.
2. Donate Directly to the Charity
Avoid processing fees by donating directly via e-transfer, cheque, or cash. Many charities provide clear instructions on their website for these options, and it’s a wonderful way to establish a more personal connection with the organization.
At ECA, you’ll find detailed guidance on how to donate directly, ensuring every dollar supports vital conservation efforts. Personal, fee-free donations are a win-win for both you and the charity!
3. Donate Registered Securities
Did you know you can donate registered securities such as stocks or mutual funds? Not only does this benefit the charity, but it also offers you substantial tax savings, as you avoid capital gains taxes.
It’s a seamless process with most charities, including ECA. Donating securities is a smart and impactful way to support meaningful causes.
4. Contribute Monthly
Monthly donations provide charities with consistent funding to sustain their campaigns and initiatives. These smaller, recurring gifts can be more manageable for donors while still offering the same tax benefits as a lump sum donation.
At ECA, monthly donors join the Sustainers Club, receiving exclusive updates, stories, and invitations to special events. Joining a monthly giving program is an easy way to ensure your impact lasts all year long.
5. Partner with a Charity
For businesses, partnering with a charity is a fantastic way to demonstrate corporate social responsibility while gaining exposure.
When you sponsor events or initiatives for organizations like the ECA, your brand aligns with environmental stewardship and connects with engaged, local audiences. With ECA’s reach across South Georgian Bay’s growing community, your business can stand out as a leader in sustainability.
Recently the ECA hosted the Nature Corridor Summit which was generously funded by a mix of large donations and in-kind donations – such as South Georgian Bay Innovation Fund, Paul Chapman of RBC Wealth Management and WinThinking. Both methods of donation are recognized and celebrated by any charitable organization.
6. Create a Legacy Gift in your Will
Leave a lasting impact by creating a legacy gift. Legacy gifts allow you to preserve what matters most, such as natural landscapes or conservation efforts, through your estate planning.
Consider donating land, securities, or insurance policies as part of your estate. These gifts ensure that the causes you care about are protected for future generations.
💚 At ECA: Legacy gifts support the conservation of South Georgian Bay’s escarpment, by helping us in establishing an ecological corridor that will protect our escarpment forever. Reach out to Jarvis to begin this meaningful conversation.
Every Gift Matters
From small monthly contributions to transformative legacy gifts, every act of generosity fuels the mission of environmental charities like the ECA. This season, your gift doesn’t just support conservation—it protects the natural world for generations to come.
Let’s make this holiday season one of impact and hope.
Ready to give? Contact Jarvis at [email protected] to get started. Together, we can create a legacy of change.
