It was the owner of a book store at Niagara-on-the-Lake who first introduced my late husband Marek and me to the Bruce Trail.

It was 1996, and we were newcomers to the area searching for information about things we could do locally. She handed us a guidebook and said we should learn about the Bruce Trail. And so, we did.

My husband and I were both scientists, and we very much enjoyed the natural world, animals and plants. Together, we explored the Queenston Heights to Hamilton stretch many times in both directions. It might surprise some, but we were flabbergasted by how great the hiking was through the Hamilton area. That experience got us more enthusiastic about exploring other areas further north. I found the Trail absolutely fascinating. No matter where you access it, there’s something new and different to see and experience.

Over time, we saw how the Escarpment was being encroached from all sides, and we felt that there was a strong need to support it, so that at least some parts of it would remain wild.  It was my financial advisor who suggested that I set up a charitable giving fund, which would also establish a legacy. I felt it was a good idea because it allows me to give regularly, while still growing the funds held in trust for continuing impact over time.

As part of my legacy, I have included the Bruce Trail Conservancy as a continuing recipient of donations from the fund. For anyone who may be considering a similar gift, I would say your first thought has to be your family and their needs, and then work on setting up a fund for the charities and causes you love. It’s possible to do both.

Visit the Will Power site to learn more about Donor Advised Funds: https://www.willpower.ca/donor-advised-funds-an-easy-alternative-to-a-private-foundation/