Legacy Giving
How would you like to be remembered?
Contact us to get started today!
What is planned giving?
Planned giving (also called legacy giving) is a way to support New West Theatre through a future gift, often included in your will or estate plan. It allows you to make a meaningful contribution that reflects your values, without affecting your day-to-day finances. Many planned gifts are made after your lifetime and can be tailored to your personal circumstances.
Planned Giving means you get to create a charitable gift now that goes to support New West Theatre in the future, usually after you die.
It’s “planned” because it takes some thought and preparation, and because you should consult a lawyer and/or a financial planner about it. The easiest planned gift is part of something you should have anyway – your Will.
Is it complicated?
Not at all. Many planned gifts are simple to arrange—such as naming New West Theatre as a beneficiary in your will, life insurance policy, or RRSP. We encourage donors to consult with their legal or financial advisor, and we are always happy to provide information or answer questions at your pace.
I don't have a lot of money...Can i still make a planned gift?
Absolutely. Planned giving is for everyone. Many legacy gifts are modest in size but collectively make a significant impact. Even a small percentage of your estate can make a meaningful difference, and it costs nothing today to include New West Theatre in your plans.
Anyone can make a bequest. The amount doesn’t matter – but supporting a cause you cherish, leaving a legacy of values as well as financial disbursements, matters a lot. It Is one of the most important things you can do to build the world you would like to see.
It does not have to be cash. Any asset, including goods or services in-kind, qualify to support New West Theatre.
Why should I consider it?
Planned giving is a powerful way to leave a lasting impact on the arts in our community. It allows you to support the stories, artists, and experiences you care about—often in a way that is more significant than a one-time donation. It can also provide personal satisfaction, tax benefits, and peace of mind knowing your legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
A gift in your Will lets you create a legacy – a gift you might not be able to afford while you’re alive.
“People think that leaving money to a charity will diminish what they can leave to their kids. But, because of Canada’s tax regulations, you can give money to a charity that you would otherwise give to Canada Revenue Agency in taxes. And, if your net income in the year of your death is lower than the amount you give, your executor can claim a rebate against your previous year’s income and add that to your estate.” (Colleen Bradley, a lifetime specialist in Wills and Estate Planning.)
What might my family say?
A planned gift is a personal decision, and many donors choose to discuss their wishes with family members. Often, families find comfort in knowing their loved one supported a cause that mattered deeply to them. Planned gifts are typically arranged after loved ones are provided for first.
Talking it through with your children is a crucial step. Explain that your charitable donation will offset taxes on the estate. They’ll be happy to see it go somewhere other than the tax collector!
how do I get started?
The best first step is to speak with your lawyer or financial advisor when updating your will or estate plan. If you would like, you can also contact New West Theatre to have a confidential conversation about your interests, goals, and the types of legacy gifts available.
If you are not currently dealing with professionals in these fields, we are pleased to refer you to respected lawyers and financial planners to aid you in exercising your generosity.
How does it benefit new west theatre?
Legacy gifts help ensure the long-term sustainability of New West Theatre. They support artistic creation, youth and community programming, accessibility initiatives, and the ongoing operations that allow us to tell bold, locally rooted stories. Planned giving helps us plan confidently for the future while remaining affordable and inclusive today.
Most theatre companies in Canada are non-profit registered charities operating on small budgets, employing many volunteers. Ticket sales typically cover only about 30% of operating costs. Generous donors and government grants make up the rest.
New West Theatre struggles to support its current programs, launch new ones, promote its offerings in the community, and renew equipment, never mind taking a risk on something promising but untried. When New West Theatre receives a gift, we can use that gift for something special – something we could not do otherwise.
Where does my gift go?
Legacy gifts are used in accordance with your wishes. They may support general operations, artistic programming, education and youth initiatives, accessibility, or long-term sustainability. If you have specific intentions, we are happy to discuss them with you.
What sort of assets can be included?
Most people give cash, but cash is not the only way to support New West Theatre.
It is perfectly acceptable to offer the following:
– an annuity,
– a Retirement Plan,
– a paid-up insurance policy,
– real estate.
– gifts of appreciated securities
Any of the above may be gifted by making New West Theatre a beneficiary in your Will.
If you intend to make a gift of appreciated securities, you can receive greater benefit by donating the shares directly to New West Theatre, as opposed to selling them and donating cash.
Address
1002 – 4 Ave South
Lethbridge, AB
(403) 381-9378