K96.3FM Radio Spot

Noticed that philanthropic giving is down 15% this year as the recession continues to bite down on everyday people and their pocket book. How do people plan around giving. Should it be part of a budget plan. What is a reasonable commitment?

I know that the past couple of years have been difficult but charitable giving is still a growing priority for many Canadians. In the 10 years prior to 2007 donantions have increased by 136%. While generosity and belief in the community are primary motivators tax incentives that began in 1996 is also a contributor. It is possible to eliminate taxation on 75% of income except in the year of death and the year prior to death, when this figure jumps to 100%. There are a number of ways to contribute to charity. Some well known ways are through payroll deduction but some creative ways include purchasing a life insurance policy, gifting securities - like stocks, bonds, mutual funds, real estate, RRSPs/RRIFs and business interests (which by the way have a tax benefit), growing a moustache in Movember (Scotiamcleod raised over $14,000 for that) I am a hairless cat so I didn't participate in that. Our office adopted a family for Christmas from the women's shelter.