Making lasting change through legacy giving
I believe it’s my duty to pay forward and share what I have with those in need.
"Today, I am more passionate than ever about YSM’s mission."
The passion that inspired my legacy gift to Yonge Street Mission was sparked by YSM’s late former CEO, Rick Tobias.
I was overcome by how deeply he cared for those in need in his community.
He opened my eyes to the power of compassion. Rick was a visionary, and I am excited to support his vision to keep YSM and its vital services strong.
Thirty-five years after meeting Rick, I’m still supporting YSM and am more passionate than ever about their mission to ensure Toronto is a city where people, and not poverty, thrive.
That’s why I decided to leave a legacy gift in my Will to YSM’s Grace and Goodness Trust.
Throughout my life, I’ve learned I don’t need very much. When I think about it, my family and I have everything we need. I am so blessed to have family and friends and to own a home. I know they’ll be well taken care of when I’m gone.
Yet across Toronto, many single community members and families struggle to put food on their tables or keep a roof over their heads.
As a person of faith, I believe it’s my duty to pay forward and share what I have with those in need.
I’m thankful this is the legacy I get to leave.
Cecily
YSM supporter & legacy donor
A sincere belief in legacy giving
Theresa, a former YSM manager, updated her Will years ago and included a legacy gift to YSM.
“I know YSM will continue to work towards a positive impact which will work in practical ways, and I want to be a part of that,” said Theresa. “I’m hoping my legacy gift will inspire [my family] with a renewed desire to give as their legacy when they pass on.”
Greg’s mission of a lifetime
“I was sitting in a field in India,” said Greg, remembering the moment when Brother Christas reminded him to spend the same amount of effort helping his neighbours in Toronto as he’d already done in leprosy centres abroad. “I helped establish two missions, in Haiti and India, and they reminded me to do more in my own city.”
From then on, Greg invested much of his time, talent and treasure in the work of YSM —and decided not to have that end with his passing. “The way I look at the world, we’re all God’s children,” Greg explained. “We go through life with resources and, to me, they’re from God to live by. When we pass on, we need to give back for work in His name and to care for people. My heart has always been with YSM.”
A better future for the people of Toronto
James grew up in Toronto and has given regularly to Yonge Street Mission to help end the long-term experience of poverty. Now a senior, James says he wants to continue investing in the wellbeing of neighbours even after he’s gone.
“As a child, I was raised by a single mother who worked hard to care for my sister and me,” he says. “That gave me a heart to do all I can to help neighbours in need.”
“That’s a legacy I want to leave for our city.”