“I’m a dad,” says Kyle Kootstra, Portfolio Manager at BMO Nesbitt Burns and a United Way donor. “My wife and I think a lot about how we can make sure our kids experience no barriers—and we’re fortunate to be able to do that.”
But Kyle knows that isn’t the reality for every family.
“There are many children in our community growing up in environments where, for one reason or another, their immediate network isn’t able to remove some of the barriers they’re facing.”
That awareness is what drives his support.
“I want all kids in our community to have the opportunity to grow, thrive, and pursue whatever they want to accomplish. To me, United Way plays a critical role in making that possible.”
________________________________________
Supporting Kids—Now and in the Future
Through its long-term Cradle to Career strategy, United Way is working to remove barriers at every stage of a child’s life—from early years through to adulthood.
This approach focuses on creating lasting change: improving outcomes in education, financial stability, and overall well-being so that more young people can succeed, no matter their starting point.
For donors like Kyle, that long-term vision matters.
“I financially contribute to United Way so they can do for other kids what I take pride in doing for my own children,” he says.
Planned giving is one way to help ensure that work continues—not just today, but for years to come.
________________________________________
Starting the Conversation
For Kyle and his wife, giving is also about values—and how those values are shared with their family.
Having conversations about philanthropy can naturally lead to broader discussions about estate planning and what happens in the future.
“This can really help create a sense of identity and legacy among family members, especially for younger generations,” Kyle explains. “It builds understanding and can even strengthen family unity.”
________________________________________
The Practical Side of Planned Giving
As a financial professional, Kyle also sees the practical benefits.
He notes that many people are surprised to learn how retirement assets like RRSPs or LIRAs are taxed when passed on—particularly if there is no surviving spouse.
“At the end of the day, when there are considerable estate taxes owing, you will either ‘donate’ to the government through taxes paid, or you can choose to make a donation to an organization doing work you believe in,” he says.
Planned giving can be simpler than many expect. Options might include:
• Naming a charity as a beneficiary of an RRSP or insurance policy
• Donating securities in-kind to reduce capital gains tax
• Including a charitable gift in your will
Each option allows you to support a cause you care about while also considering the financial implications for your estate.
________________________________________
Choosing Long-Term Impact
Kyle emphasizes the importance of planning carefully—and choosing organizations with a strong future.
“Talk to the people closest to you. Talk to those who will be impacted by your decisions. And consult a financial or tax professional to figure out what’s right for you,” he says.
He also points to the importance of trust and longevity.
“United Way has been a fixture in this community for almost 80 years. They have the expertise, oversight, and long-term strategy that gives confidence when making these kinds of decisions.”
________________________________________
A Legacy That Lasts
Beyond the financial considerations, planned giving is ultimately about impact.
“But more importantly,” Kyle adds, “United Way is making innovative investments to help people change the trajectory of their lives.”
Through Cradle to Career, those investments are designed to create lasting change—ensuring that future generations of children have access to the support, opportunities, and resources they need to succeed.
A planned gift is one way to be part of that future.
________________________________________
If you’re interested in learning more about leaving a legacy through planned giving, we’re here to help start the conversation—no pressure, just information.
Connect with Andrew Bothamley, Vice-President, Finance & Operations at United Way at [email protected] or 519-259-6159