Finding Meaning in Philanthropy
Published11 September, 2023
Photo credit Patrick Leung
Building a legacy looks different for everyone who sets out to construct one.
For Bob McGill, the power of family ties, community involvement and education carved a path to generosity that inspires and makes a difference in the lives of Capilano University (CapU) students.
Some 52 years ago, Bob moved from Ontario to B.C., having established himself in the financial services industry in southern Ontario. But the west coast beckoned.
“I thought, ‘What do I want, quality of life or more money?’ And I knew the quality of life was much better here,” said the West Vancouver resident.
At that time, his father was fundraising for a new sports and recreation centre for the then-named Capilano College. Soon, Bob’s brother moved to B.C. and began his studies there.
Years later, Bob’s son Robert would go on to study Studio Arts at Capilano College – an experience that “lit his creativity” and propelled him on his career in architecture, Bob said.
These family experiences piqued his curiosity about making a difference, eventually bringing him to his role as a CapU Foundation board member, donor, and all-around CapU champion.
“Today, as a small university with small classes, which allows for more attention to the individual students, the CapU experience is more enriching than going to a bigger university and being one of 70,000.”
After retiring in 2003, Bob was encouraged by Jeri Krogseth, an admired family friend, educator and CapU Foundation Board member, to join the CapU Foundation’s Board of Directors.
Since then, the McGill family has made generous contributions to CapU programs in the performing arts, athletics and bursary funds. Bob and Brenda McGill have given to the Learning Commons and the campaign for the new Centre for Childhood Studies, which broke ground in 2022 with the goal of completion in 2024.
Donors selling publicly-traded securities prior to donating to a charity pay taxes on 50 per cent of the capital gains. However, in a gift of securities directly to a charity, the donor pays no tax on the capital gains and receives a donation tax receipt for their full market value.
It’s an efficient way to lower the tax bill for any investor, especially one planning to make charitable contributions anyway, he said.
Security Giving
Your gift of a publicly-traded securities is a simple, cost-effective and most tax-efficient way to make a charitable gift to Capilano University.
Security GivingA path to deeper engagement
Over the years, Bob has noticed how giving can help connect donors and their families to a not-for-profit meaningfully.
“People appreciate learning about a foundation or organization when working with them because it’s fulfilling.”
“And it’s a two-way street. The donor is motivated to look more closely at the charity. And the charity is also happy to develop a relationship with the donor.”