Donating gives him 'sense of purpose,' philanthropist Gerry Kowalchuk says

Gail Kendall
Special to Niagara Now/The Lake Report

A small group of NOTL residents were treated to a virtual presentation Saturday put on by the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre on how to be wise when making charitable gifts. 

The online event, called the Joy of Gifting Wisely, was hosted by Pumphouse board chair Lise Andreana and marketing co-ordination Aimee Medina with presentations by local philanthropist Gerry Kowalchuk and Niagara-on-the-Lake financial planner Paul Lalonde. 

Participants had the opportunity to learn about two key components of gifting – why and how – with a rare insight into donor and estate planning expertise. 

Lalonde offered ways to manage finances and escape paying high taxes through charitable donations.

Kowalchuk, who had a successful career in the investment field, is an avid donor to charitable causes he is passionate about. 

In 2014, he established a fund through the Niagara Community Foundation to help underprivileged families and children.

He gave an impassioned presentation regarding his awareness of hardships experienced by others over a span of many years that led him to becoming a regular donor.

“Charitable giving has brought meaning into my life,” Kowalchuk said. “I have no doubt that since 2014 my life is much fuller and, in a nutshell, I have a sense of purpose.”