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Ensuring a lasting legacy for generations to come

The AHS Community today stands on the shoulders of giants – visionary individuals who, with foresight and generosity, arranged for legacy gifts that continue to shape the educational experiences of Associated students. 

A six-figure legacy gift can be truly transformational, impacting the future of AHS for generations to come. But every planned gift – whether a $1,000 bequest, a $10,000 life insurance policy, or a more substantial commitment – contributes to the strength and sustainability of our school.

Most of the legacy gifts received to date came as a surprise to us, as quiet testaments to the power of Jewish education. While we are profoundly grateful for these unexpected donations, we hope that more community members will consider making arrangements and sharing their plans with us in advance.

 

Atid CHAI is our new legacy giving program designed to recognize and thank our community members during their lifetimes. The name “Atid CHAI” combines two key Hebrew concepts: עתיד means “future;”  ח”י means “life” and is also an acronym for Jewish Education (חינוך יהודי – Chinuch Yehudi).  Therefore, Atid CHAI can be understood as “The Future of Jewish Education” or “A Living Future for Jewish Learning” – emphasizing both continuity and vitality in Jewish education.

You will find that there’s a planned giving vehicle for everyone – small or large donations, from donors young and old.  The options are outlined here, but we encourage you to speak with your financial advisor to determine which works best for you and your situation.

By sharing your intentions with us today, you can inspire others, connect with like-minded supporters, and see the impact of your generosity while strengthening the foundation of our school for generations to come. Your gift is not just an investment in education – it is a powerful statement of faith in our community’s future.

Please contact Jennifer Singer for more information on Atid CHAI: 416-494-7666, ext. 653 or jsinger@ahschools.com.

Testimonials

Building Tomorrow Together: Stories from Atid CHAI members

Elaine & Benny Osher

The Goldberg Family

lan '73 and Heather Ringel

Tanya Werger ‘06

Click on the photo to see the testimonial

Their Generosity Lives On

Nathan O. Hurwich z"l
(1909-2008) Class of 1923

David Pinkus z"l
(1924-2021), Class of 1936

Gerda Steinitz Frieberg z"l (1925-2023)

Clifford B. Braithwaite

Click on the photo to see the testimonial

Legacy Giving: Myths & Realities

My kids are young and I’m currently paying for tuition/camp/sports; I don’t have a large amount to give now or in the future.

No worries!  We encourage our younger community members to consider life insurance policies. When you take out a new life insurance policy with Associated as the beneficiary, you will get tax receipts for the yearly premiums. As a result, you’ll receive recognition now for your substantial future gift while participating in our annual fundraising campaigns.

I’m in my 40s. I’m too young to talk about planned giving!

A donor of any age can become a legacy donor. A recent study found that people aged 40–54 have more legacy gifts to nonprofit causes, exceeding all other age cohorts.[1]

[1] Source: September 26, 2024 Mersky, Jaffe & Associates Newsletter: Legacy Gifts: Myths and Facts by David A. Mersky

I'm not comfortable giving a large amount. Would anything I leave be helpful?

Absolutely! You can leave any amount, or a percentage of your estate. Your gift is a testament to your values and commitment to Associated, and it adds to the collective impact of others’ generosity.

I don’t have a will!

The good news is that you are in the majority: a 2024 survey by the Logit Group found that only 43% of Canadians have a will.[1]  However, financial and legal experts will advise writing a will when you go through life changes such as: getting married; buying a house; having children or when your financial circumstances change.  If you don’t have a lawyer, there are a few online resources that will help you write a will, starting at $49.[2]

[1] https://logitgroup.com/canadians-last-will-and-testament/

[2] https://inflationcalculator.ca/top-4-online-will-writing-services-in-canada/

I need to take care of my kids and grandkids.

Of course you do; providing for your family is your top priority. One option some people find reassuring is allocating a small percentage of their estate to your favourite organization, like Associated Hebrew Schools. This way, you ensure your family is well cared for while also making a meaningful impact on future generations of AHS students. Even a modest gift can make a significant difference.

Consult your financial advisor for any other questions or guidance. 
For information on Atid CHAI, please contact Jennifer Singer at

416-494-7666, ext. 653 or jsinger@ahschools.com