MABR Legacy Plan

 

The Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region Legacy Plan provides an opportunity for individuals, families, and organizations to leave a lasting impact on our environment, communities, and future generations. By contributing through legacy giving, donors can support the MABR’s mission to advance sustainability, conservation, community engagement, and well-being in our UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve.  

 

Why Leave a Legacy?

Legacy gifts are a meaningful way to ensure that MABR’s work continues to flourish and adapt to future challenges.  

 

MABR Legacies

Conservation Legacy Fund

The Conservation Legacy is dedicated to preserving the MABR’s rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems, ensuring their resilience for future generations. A key focus is filling critical data gaps to inform conservation strategies, including comprehensive species inventories, habitat mapping, and ecosystem health assessments. The Conservation Legacy also prioritizes the identification and designation of Protected Areas, Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures, Key Biodiversity Areas, Wildlife Management Areas, and other forms of conservation.   

The Conservation Legacy aims to strengthen the ecological health of the MABR and establish a robust foundation for continued stewardship and adaptability in the face of environmental challenges. 

Climate resilience legacy fund

Building resilience to climate change is critical for the future of the MABR. The Climate Resilience Legacy is aimed at educating and equipping the community to adapt to shifting environmental conditions while mitigating climate-related risks.  

Through collaborations with the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region Research Institute, the Climate Resiliency Legacy leverages research to inform decision-making and strengthen regional climate adaptation efforts. Youth-focused climate education programs, integrated with the Youth Program and NatureKids, play a pivotal role in inspiring the next generation of sustainability leaders. Research and programming aim to foster an understanding of climate science and encourage active participation in climate resilience activities. Combining education, research, and practical action, the Climate Resilience Legacy supports efforts towards the MABR to become more resilient and adaptive in the face of climate change challenges. 

Education and innovation legacy fund

The Education and Innovation Legacy focuses on expanding learning opportunities and fostering innovative solutions to address the MABR's most pressing challenges. Central to this legacy is the enhancement of programming at ts’xwelikwshenawtxw (MABR Education Centre), which serves as a hub for community engagement, environmental education, and sustainability awareness. Initiatives such as Speaker Series, Think Tanks, Circle Talks, Speaker and Education Series and Visual Media Nights bring together experts, stakeholders, and the public to explore topics including biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable development.  

A key focus of the Education and Innovation Legacy Fund is expanding awareness and accessibility to environmental education by reaching diverse audiences across the MABR. Programs for youth are integrated into the MABR Education Centre’s offerings, inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. Partnerships with academic institutions, such as those facilitated by Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region Research Institute, ensure that research informs practical conservation and sustainable development strategies. By prioritizing education, outreach, and technological innovation, the Education and Innovation Legacy not only addresses current environmental challenges but also builds a foundation for long-term community awareness and action within the MABR. 

Food Security Legacy Fund

The Food Security Legacy aims to ensure all residents of the MABR have access to nutritious, locally grown food while advancing sustainable agricultural practices. A cornerstone of this legacy is acquiring land to expand community farming initiatives and create space for growing food directly at schools. These efforts aim to increase local food production but also provide hands-on learning opportunities for students and community fostering a deeper connection to sustainable agriculture and healthy eating habits. 

The Food Security Legacy will support small-scale farmers, urban agriculture, and community gardens, while also promoting educational programs through the MABR Education Centre. Partnerships with local food networks and Indigenous communities are central to this legacy, integrating traditional knowledge and addressing systemic challenges to food security and food sovereignty. By combining land acquisition, school-based farming programs, and community-driven solutions, the Food Security Legacy aims to strengthen local agriculture, ensure equitable access to nutritious food, and align with the MABR’s broader sustainable development and social equity goals.  

 

Ways to Leave a Legacy

Bequests in a Will 
Include MABR as a beneficiary in your will by designating a specific amount, percentage, or residue of your estate. 

Gifts of Securities 
Donate publicly traded securities (stocks, bonds, or mutual funds) to avoid capital gains taxes while maximizing your impact. 

Charitable Remainder Trusts 
Establish a trust that provides income to you or your loved ones during your lifetime, with the remaining assets directed to MABR upon the trust’s termination. 

Life Insurance Policies 
Name MABR as the beneficiary of a new or existing life insurance policy. 
Transfer ownership of a policy to MABR to receive immediate tax benefits. 

Endowment Contributions 
Contribute to an existing MABR endowment fund or establish a named fund to support specific programs or initiatives. 

Recognition and Gratitude

MABR deeply values the generosity of its legacy donors. To express our gratitude: 

  • Donors may choose to be recognized at ts’xwelikwshenawtxw (MABR Education Centre), or MABR annual and program reports or newsletters. 

  • Named funds and projects can carry the donor’s name or a name of their choosing. 

  • Donors may opt to remain anonymous if preferred. 

Ensuring Transparency and Accountability

All legacy gifts will be managed responsibly and transparently to align with MABR’s mission and values. Regular updates will be provided to donors and their families on how their contributions are making a difference.

How to Begin

Leaving a legacy is simple. Follow these steps: 

  1. Consult with your financial advisor or estate planner. 

  2. Reach out to MABR to discuss your intentions and explore options. 

  3. Include the necessary details in your estate planning documents. 

  4. Notify MABR of your plans to ensure your wishes are understood and honoured. 

Contact us

For more information or to discuss your legacy gift, please contact: 

Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region 
PO Box 414  
124 West 2nd Ave 
Qualicum Beach, BC  
V9K 1G8 
250-594-0405 

Your Legacy, Our Future

By leaving a legacy gift to the MABR, you help ensure that the natural beauty, biodiversity, and vibrant communities of our biosphere region are preserved and enhanced for generations to come. Together, we can create a sustainable and resilient future.