Guiding Generosity: Meet Mark Brandsma
Generosity, at its heart, is about participation — having skin in the game.
For Mark Brandsma, board member of GiveWise Foundation Canada, giving isn’t just about writing cheques — it’s about being personally invested in creating impact.
“When I first heard about GiveWise a number of years ago, I was drawn to the concept of a Donor-Advised Fund,” Mark shares. “The idea of having a central location for all my giving — where I could donate, manage disbursements to causes I care about, and track my giving history online — really appealed to me.”
That simple but powerful structure helped Mark and his family bring order and intentionality to their generosity.
“It’s allowed me to organize my giving and see how it’s grown over time,” he explains. “What I also love about GiveWise Foundation is that it’s accessible to anyone — whether you’re just starting out with a small amount to give, or you’re managing more complex, sophisticated charitable plans. The breadth of who GiveWise can serve is something I’m really proud of.”
By day, Mark is a Relationship Manager, Financial and Estate Planner, and Partner with Covenant Family Wealth Advisors, where he helps clients take a holistic approach to financial and estate planning — blending strategy with purpose. With over 25 years of experience and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation, Mark is known for his practical wisdom, relational approach, and commitment to making a long-term impact.
Mark’s generosity journey began early in his marriage. He still remembers the first four-figure gift he and his wife made — a moment that tested their faith and commitment.
“We were newly married, and there was an organization we felt called to give $1,000 to. It was a big stretch at the time,” Mark recalls. “Looking back, I have no regrets. That experience really shaped how we approach generosity today.”
That act of faith has since grown into a lifelong rhythm of giving — one rooted in gratitude, purpose, and personal investment.
If you ask Mark’s friends or family to describe him, they might mention another kind of adventure — one that’s less about finance and more about mountains.
“A number of years ago, my wife and I took our three kids — along with another family — on a trek to the base camp of Mount Everest,” he says with a smile. “It was epic. Our kids were probably a little young for it; some might even call it reckless. But it was an amazing time and a memory we’ll always share.”
That same spirit of courage and perseverance carries through in how Mark approaches generosity and leadership.
In the Brandsma household, there’s a well-known phrase that makes the kids roll their eyes: “Skin in the game.”
For Mark, it’s more than a saying — it’s a life philosophy.
“To me, having 'skin in the game' means leading by example,” he explains. “It means taking the first step, being involved, and showing your commitment in tangible ways. It’s something I’ve always believed in — and hopefully, something my kids have learned from too.”
Outside of work, you can often find Mark playing a variety of recreational sports, spending time with his family and friends, travelling to Africa, or tending to the animals on the family hobby farm — different kinds of investments that keeps life grounded.
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About This Series
At GiveWise, generosity is driven by people. “Guiding Generosity: The People of GiveWise” introduces you to the Board members and team who guide our mission, share their passion for giving, and help more Canadians make generosity simple, strategic, and joyful.