Donating...How and Why
Donations and gifts to Community Living Sarnia-Lambton can take
many different forms and can be used in almost any way you specify. Since
Community Living is registered as a charitable institution, gifts can be
income-tax-deductible.
Some ways of giving:
- Cash or a cheque for any amount. Receipts for tax purposes are
issued automatically for any amount of ten dollars or more if you provide
your name and address.
- Gifts in kind. Anything with a value that can be determined on the
retail market, especially if it's something that can be used by our staff
or clients. You will receive a receipt for income tax purposes for the
fair market value of the item. Anything from a house to furniture (in good
repair) to a wheelchair to...you name it. If you're in doubt, call Norma
Hills or Carrie Mulvey at 519-332-0560.
- Bequests, insurance policies, trust funds...your lawyer or
financial consultant can help you arrange this in a way that will benefit
you and Community Living the most. A gift of shares can be an excellent
option for an estate, compared to selling those shares on the market.
- Membership: The membership fee has been waived for
a trial period - although a donation would be appreciated. Individuals or families
wishing to become members should get an application form from Tammy Langis,
Norma Hills or Linda Lamourea. Membership will ensure that you're kept up to date
with Community Living events and issues. It also entitles you to vote at the
Annual General Meeting.
- The funding of a bursary or scholarship in the field of social work or in
other educational or research fields that benefit people with developmental
disabilities is another possibility.
If you wish your donation to be used for a particular person, it's
important that you talk to senior staff at Community Living and possibly
with a lawyer or financial consultant who is familiar with the Ontario
Disabilities Support Programme (ODSP). Contravening the regulations
could mean that the person might lose her/his allowance, which can
be difficult to reinstate if it should ever become necessary. Donations in
support of one of Community Living's services, programmes, residences or
workshops, or to benefit a number of clients are usually safe.
Again, talk to the Executive Director, the Controller or another senior staff
person to ensure the maximum benefit of your gift.
If needed, senior staff can advise you about a lawyer and/or a financial
expert that we know have experience with charitable institutions
and disability benefits. You may also find it helpful to look at the
'Leave a Legacy' web site for
more ideas and information.
