Leaving a legacy at UCC

The Class of 1970’s George McNeillie and Allen Meredith recently joined other legacy donors and their spouses at a brunch hosted at Grant House by Principal Sam McKinney and Rosey McKinney as a thank you for their commitment.

“It was our first brunch and we plan to make it an annual event,” says David Shaw, director of legacy giving. “These donors don’t make their gifts for the thanks, but it’s nice to acknowledge them and give them a chance to connect with each other.”

Legacy donors are those whose donation to the College is arranged in the present to be made available for use in the future. It is a bequest mentioned in their wills.

McNeillie and Meredith are members of the Our Third Century council, an advisory committee that consults on the school’s legacy giving program. The Class of 1970 is particularly active in maintaining enduring ties to the school, and their class fund is a scholarship through which they hope to provide financial assistance to students of promise. 

Says McNeillie, “My parents made a sacrifice to send me to UCC, and I’ve always been mindful of the importance of offering that same opportunity to boys who might not otherwise be able to attend.”

“When people get to a certain age, they look back at the things that made a difference in their lives,” says Shaw. “Many Old Boys feel that the College was impactful and are grateful to their parents for that experience. Now they are in a position to make a significant gift, but not in their lifetime, due to uncertainty about their own needs. That’s where a legacy gift comes in.”

Legacy gifts are retained with the Upper Canada College Foundation and, unless specified, will be added to the endowment. However, individuals can direct their legacy gifts to programs that are meaningful to them.

Alan Ely ’65, for example, has directed his legacy gift towards the music program.

"I want to give back to the school that gave me music," says the retired business executive who still sings with groups that entertain at retirement homes.

Legacy gifts are valuable to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the College. Shaw and his team are happy to meet with potential legacy donors to discuss the opportunities and the process. 

Says Meredith, “Although it’s doubtful that George or I will make it to our first century, we heartily endorse Our Third Century — and hope others will consider a planned gift.” 

For more information about Legacy Giving, contact Dave Shaw.