by Greg Brown, Senior Associate Insurance Advisor
Growing up in small town Ontario I watched both my parents donate their time and energy to community organizations close to their hearts. So, it’s no coincidence that years later my involvement within the community mirrors the love of sport and passion for health care they modelled. Now, every day I see that same passion for community from clients, colleagues, friends, kids I coach and more and more in my own children. Philanthropic giving is a great way to give back to the community and build change that can impact generations to come.
Today, I want to delve into two topic that matter a great deal to me, community and charitable giving. More than just an act of stroking a cheque or tapping your credit card for those not of my vintage, philanthropy holds the power to shape legacies, impact communities, and play a vital role in tax and estate planning. As someone deeply rooted in the values of community and giving back, I'm excited to share with you the transformative benefits of philanthropic endeavors.
Legacy Building: One of the most profound aspects of philanthropic giving is its ability to create lasting legacies. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the impact of community leaders who dedicated themselves to making a difference. My parents were shining examples of this ethos. My mother, a dedicated bookkeeper, volunteered her time with every sports organization we were a part of and was active with the Canadian Cancer Society. My father could be found at the hockey rink, coaching and mentoring young players. Their commitment to community service left an indelible mark on me, inspiring me to find ways to get involved to help make Kingston a better place.
Community Impact: Philanthropic giving has the power to uplift and strengthen communities in profound ways. Whether supporting local charities, funding educational initiatives, or investing in infrastructure projects, every contribution plays a part in creating a brighter future for all. In Ontario, where vibrant communities are the heartbeat of our province, philanthropy serves as a catalyst for positive change, driving innovation, and fostering a sense of belonging. By giving back to the communities that shaped us, we not only honor our roots but also ensure a legacy of prosperity for generations to come.
Estate Planning: From a practical standpoint, philanthropic giving is also an integral component of estate planning. By incorporating charitable donations into your estate plan, you can leave a lasting impact where it matters most to you, while also maximizing tax benefits for your heirs. Said another way, when done properly the tax man gets less, magnifying your ability to give to the people and organization important to you and your family. Whether establishing a donor-advised fund, leaving a bequest in your will, or donating appreciated assets, there are numerous strategies available to align your charitable goals with your estate planning objectives. By working closely with a financial advisor, you can create a comprehensive plan that reflects your values and priorities, ensuring a smooth transition of wealth while leaving a meaningful legacy.
Tax Planning: Finally, philanthropic giving offers significant tax advantages that can enhance your overall financial strategy. In Ontario, charitable donations are eligible for generous tax credits, allowing you to reduce your tax liability while supporting causes you care about. By strategically incorporating charitable giving into your financial plan, you can optimize your tax position, minimize estate taxes, and leave a lasting impact on your community. From reducing capital gains taxes on appreciated assets to leveraging donation matching programs, there are a variety of tax-efficient strategies available to maximize the impact of your philanthropy.
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As a financial advisor, I've seen firsthand the transformative power of philanthropic gifts. From building legacies to making a tangible difference in our community organizations, each act of generosity has the potential to create a ripple effect of positive change. By embracing philanthropy as a cornerstone of our financial planning, we can leave a mark on future generations that extends far beyond our lifetime, inspiring them to carry on the tradition of giving back.
For me, philanthropy is not just a financial strategy; it's a way of life, rooted in the values of community, compassion, and stewardship. Many of the services we enjoy today are a result of financial contribution made by those who came before us. We owe it to future generations to continue this spirit of making our communities better places for those to come. As I pass on these values to my own children, I'm reminded of the importance of leading by example and showing the next generation how to make a difference in the world. Together, we can harness the power of philanthropy to create a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
 GREG BROWN Senior Associate Insurance Advisor Park Place Financial Greg joined Park Place Financial as the first Investment Representatives when they moved into the Kingston market in 2021. Having worked in finance since 2015, as a Director at Freedom 55, Greg had many years of experience leading a team of advisors to develop their skills and business growth. He was excited to be a part of the founding Park Place team in the region as he could see how the companies values aligned with his own in approaching everything with excellence.
Greg has long had a passion for financial planning, as his own life experiences have clearly demonstrated to him the need for a proper and thorough financial plan. He believes that while health is your number one priority, you also need to apply that same importance on financial wellness to ensure a strong and sustainable future.
Originally from Listowel, Greg studied Kinesiology at Western, graduating in 1999. Shortly after he and his wife relocated to Kingston and have called it home since. He is very involved in the community having volunteered as head coach for his son’s hockey team and is also a patient experience advisor at the Regional Cancer Centre of Eastern Ontario and Board Committees of Kingston Health Sciences Centre, where he works to improve patient experience. CONTACT ME 613-331-1870 |
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 Founded in 2012, by Mike D’Alessandro and Darrell Wade, Park Place Financial grew quickly to become one of Central and Eastern Ontario’s top wealth and estate planning firms. Its mission, to be known for excellence in helping grow and preserve the wealth accumulated by family business owners and entrepreneurs across multiple generations. In 2018, Terry Windrem Insurance Agencies joined Park Place Financial, firmly positioning the business as an industry leader in wealth and risk management. |
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