O’Coin Walker & Associates, a trusted investment team at BMO Nesbitt Burns, is marking a 25-year milestone in Orillia this year.
In celebration of her 25th anniversary with the firm, investment adviser Karen O’Coin is leading a donation-matching pledge to the Community Foundation of Orillia and Area (CFOA).
For every dollar donated to the CFOA, O’Coin – along with advisor Scott Walker – will chip in the same amount, up to $2,500 each for a total of $5,000.
“The CFOA has a unique structure that reaches many charities in Orillia and surrounding areas,” O’Coin says. “I served on the granting committee 25 years ago, and since then the Foundation’s community reach has only grown.”
The CFOA, which is also celebrating 25 years, provides a path for Orillia residents to support local charities across a broad spectrum of needs.
It’s a locally-run, public foundation that builds and manages permanent endowment funds from charitable donations. They accept contributions from donors, invest them for long term growth, and distribute the earnings each year to local charities based on their needs and the needs of the community.
“This one-stop organization achieves true community diversification, which is why supporting it is personally meaningful to me,” O’Coin says.
“This matching initiative allows us to make a more immediate impact on organizations that need support right now.”
But for O’Coin, charitable giving is more than just a financial strategy – it’s woven into her approach to client relationships and community service.
“People in Orillia have entrusted us for more than 25 years to manage their investments while considering the philanthropic needs of the area,” she says. “This has become integral to our own philosophy, as well.”
“Helping clients align their financial goals with causes that resonate with them not only strengthens their impact but also reinforces the strong bonds that make Orillia such a vibrant and caring place to live.”
At its core, charitable giving has to align with an individual's beliefs, says Scott Walker, who joined the firm in 2018.
“First and foremost, charitable giving is a personal decision,” Walker says. “It always starts with the question, ‘What are you passionate about?’”
“But even with tax-efficient options, people need to feel motivated to make a difference, and in today’s economic environment, there’s a lot of motivation to be philanthropic.”
For people looking for a bit of advice on the best approaches on charitable giving, Scott suggests donating appreciated securities as a smart way to boost a donation's impact.
“When you donate appreciated assets, you’re able to bypass capital gains taxes while also receiving a full tax credit,” he says. “It’s a powerful way to maximize your contribution, but we recommend consulting a tax or financial advisor to navigate the nuances.”
Scott highlights the role of community foundations for clients unsure where to direct their donations.
They’re often a good, central hub that can direct donations where needed. He also encourages clients to get to know potential charities and meet the community leaders behind charity efforts.
“Doing your due diligence gives you confidence in the impact your donation will have,” Scott says.
The firm’s involvement also extends beyond financial contributions. Both O’Coin and Walker have long-standing relationships with local organizations and community groups, providing time, lending expertise, and offering financial support to initiatives that reflect their personal values.
“It’s a privilege to work with a team that’s passionate about giving back,” Walker says.
“Our community has a unique, close-knit feel, and it’s deeply rewarding to contribute to its positive direction.”
Joining O’Coin Walker & Associates as a new team member, Jennifer Hiltz brings a wealth of experience in commercial and private banking. Raised in Orillia, Hiltz is thrilled to return and serve her hometown.
“It’s incredibly special to be joining a team that’s so entrenched in the community,” she says. “I’m also grateful to work alongside Karen, who has paved the way for women in the industry.”
“It’s an amazing opportunity that I will cherish.”
Hiltz’s expertise in banking and lending will complement the firm’s offerings, allowing them to provide even more holistic advice to clients.
“I’m passionate about evaluating a client’s entire financial picture, beyond just their investments,” Hiltz says. She plans to deepen relationships with existing clients by helping them explore strategic borrowing options to fund their goals, while maintaining and growing their investments.
As for the next 25 years, O’Coin says she sees financial planning as extending far beyond investment management.
“Managing investment portfolios is now, more than ever, only a segment of our management for clients,” she says. “We actively guide them through retirement planning, taxation investment options and estate planning.”
And O’Coin says she’s always looking towards the future – not just for clients, but for young professionals like Hiltz who can learn from her own experience and knowledge.
For those young professionals entering the world of financial management, her advice is to always start with a financial plan for the clients.
“Developing a trusting relationship is essential, and a plan provides the foundation for understanding each client’s needs, timeline, and risk tolerance,” she says.
As O’Coin Walker & Associates looks ahead, the team is poised to continue its tradition of combining expertise with a personal touch.
And for clients, that means ongoing access to knowledgeable advisors who care about their success and are deeply invested in the health, success, and well-being of their community.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with O’Coin Walker & Associates, visit their BMO Nesbitt Burns office in Orillia.
This article was sponsored by O’Coin Walker & Associates - BMO Nesbitt Burns, a 2024 OrilliaMatters Reader Favourite.