Property Industry Foundation’s Post

I've been reflecting on the past year. The staff team has expanded and all of us have experienced major family crises but a moment of calm in a year that has steam-rollered through, was when three of our councillors laid a wreath at a memorial in our parish that overlooks a WW1 airfield. The weather was kind, a chinook flew by and we made our way back down the hill thoughtful from two young people's reading of war poems - old and new in the November gloom as a sunset splashed colour across the sky, and an air ambulance approached, it's blades beating like a drum in the silence. That day we were joined by Estelle who is now considering becoming a councillor. We need more residents to join us and help to shape the future of our growing parish. Ground level local government is a huge responsibility, requiring a level of service that is rarely rewarded and always challenging. I'm proud to be a part of our Parish Council, we are mercifully non-political, and the commitment and time given by our councillors is humbling. Our communication mission is to be open, listen and help find solutions and resolution, or the right person to speak to, and to work with residents and partner agencies to improve our Parish wherever possible. Some people have been very angry as a default point of contact, and often their first approach is combatative, usually because their issue feels either overwhelming, or they know they should have dealt with it much sooner - this can be very challenging, we all have our limits. When I think about the sacrifices made in times of conflict and war, the public service we give pales into insignificance, and as the old year closes and a new year approaches, I consider the continuing climate of uncertainty we have endured as a country for more than a decade. The yawning chasm growing between the 'haves' and the 'have nots' is prominent, as food banks and charities deal with new levels of poverty, and at higher levels of local governance - budgets are stretched tight and their ability to provide quality of service hampered by too many issues as a result of under-investment over the years, now demanding more and more resources and money. All of this makes moments of calm, and places where we can breathe so important. We need space, both physically and in our minds, it enables us to see the higher perspective, and make good choices. We need to hold a space for ourselves, to be aware and responsive. Open spaces such as parks, greens, recreation fields, riverside walks, woods and hillsides are all so vital to human communities and wildlife. We co-exist with nature. And when nourished nature gives back.

One night isn't a lot, but it can make a whole lot of difference Every night, thousands of Australians experience homelessness. But it doesn't have to be that way. This year our team is taking part in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout to raise money for the St Vincent de Paul Society to support Australians in need. For one night, all of us will be sleeping outside as part of an eye-opening experience to raise awareness and bring home the realities of homelessness. More than 122,000 people will be homeless across Australia tonight. On 20 June, the Woodards directors, staff and business partners, will be sleeping out on a piece of cardboard on a cold, concrete floor. Unlike the thousands experiencing homelessness, fortunately for us it is only for 1 night. Last year Team Woodards raised over $243k. This year we are aiming to set a new benchmark with a reserve of $300k - just imagine what these funds will achieve in our communities for the homeless and others in need. To help break the devastating cycle of homelessness, we need your support. Will you help us reach our target? Donating $100 can make a huge difference to people who need it most.

Here is a great article highlighting how proper planning can have help you leave a much larger estate to those you love, benefit your favorite charity and save on taxes. Aunt Joan was clearly a smart lady and her planning paid off!

As Heather Austin-Skaret (she/her) points out in this article, estate executors/estate trustees are obligated to maximize the value of an estate for the benefit of the beneficiaries. However, prized possessions may not be as valuable as thought by the owner. This can be problematic for those administering the estate. #estateplanning

📣 Calling all non-profit organizations! Are you in pursuit of funding for your community projects? It’s time to tap into a valuable resource – your local government may still have ARPA funds available. Many non-profits, including schools aiming to boost their safety measures, might not be aware that unused ARPA funds could be reallocated to new initiatives. While these funds have been largely distributed, shifts in project scopes often mean there's a pool of funds ready for the taking. Remember, all ARPA funds must be earmarked by December 2024. So whether you're enhancing educational environments or embarking on other community-driven projects, now's the time to act! Reach out to your local officials and let’s put those funds to great use. #NonProfitFunding #CommunityDevelopment #ARPAFunds #SchoolSafety #GrantOpportunity #TakeAction #CommunityImpact https://lnkd.in/gWPD2UZq

Homelessness is a pressing issue in Tasmania, with thousands facing this harsh reality every night. It's a problem that often remains unseen, but one that requires immediate attention and action. That's where initiatives like the Vinnies CEO Sleepout come into play, offering a glimpse into the lives of those without a place to call home. Our Director Miguel Martinez, a dedicated leader, is gearing up for his second CEO Sleepout in Launceston. It's set to take place on Thursday, 20th June, at UTAS Stadium. While spending just one night in the cold might seem insignificant, it symbolises a much larger commitment to understanding and addressing the struggles faced by homeless Tasmanian's. The CEO Sleepout isn't just about experiencing a night without shelter; it's a powerful movement to raise funds and support for the St Vincent de Paul Society. This organisation works tirelessly to provide relief and services to those in need. By participating, leaders like Miguel Martinez are not only contributing to a greater cause but also setting an example of empathy and community responsibility. Every contribution, big or small, can make a significant impact. A donation of $100, for instance, can provide essential services and support to those who find themselves without a home. It's a call to action for everyone to play a part in breaking the devastating cycle of homelessness. As Miguel Martinez prepares for this eye-opening experience, he invites others to join him in making a difference. Whether it's through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every effort counts. Together, we can work towards a future where no Tasmanian has to endure the uncertainty and danger of homelessness. Let's stand with Miguel Martinez and countless others in the fight against homelessness. Your support could be the key to changing lives and rebuilding hope for those who need it most. Miguel's link to donate is attached. https://lnkd.in/gW95QbaR

Want to maximize your impact and your tax savings? The Qualified Endowment Credit – also referred to as the Montana Endowment Tax Credit – became permanent in 2023 when Montana Senate Bill 506 was signed into law. Along with the permanency, the tax credit increased in 2024 to $15,000 per taxpayer or $30,000 per couple filing jointly when a qualifying gift is made. For businesses making a qualifying gift, the tax credit increased to $15,000. Learn more about how to support UM and take advantage of these increased tax benefits at SupportUM.org/Tax-Updates. #umontana #philanthropy

Below you'll find a 101 class on inheritance taxes. Be proactive and fully control how your estate is passed on to your heirs and charities. Who wants to give more money to Uncle Sam? https://ow.ly/pFWI50QL2yE

Did you know that charitable legacies are one of the most popular ways for people to make a lasting impact on the causes they care about? Charitable legacies are a thoughtful way to ensure your values and passions live on, even after you're gone.  Consider including a charitable bequest in your will to make a lasting impact on the causes you care about most. Ready to start planning your legacy? Contact us today to learn more about how to leave a charitable bequest in your Will. 🌐https://lnkd.in/eFvmEM5m #LegacyWills #ourservices #estateplanning #assetprotection #willsandtrusts #peaceofmind #estateplanningexpert #willsplanningexpert #charitablelegacies