Protecting children today—and tomorrow: Rocky’s story of legacy giving

Rocky’s journey

Rocky Dundas remembers that moment vividly. After years of supporting World Vision as a donor, he finally had the chance to see the work on the ground. It was a test of trust. “I was prepared to walk away if I didn’t see the evidence of impact,” he says. What he found instead was passion, commitment, and systemic change—both in the Canadian team and in communities around the world. That experience cemented his belief that World Vision is the right vessel for creating lasting impact.

A childhood experience that sparked a lifelong mission

Rocky is the former Vice President of Philanthropy Engagement and Partnerships at World Vision Canada. His commitment to protecting children began long before his career. In grade two, Rocky faced a terrifying moment when two men tried to lure him to their car on his walk to school. But thanks to the school janitor, he was able to run safely into his school. That experience taught him how vital security is for children and sparked a lifelong passion for justice and protection.

Values that shape a legacy

Rocky’s generosity is rooted in his Christian worldview: “I realize that God is generous to me and has given me the opportunity to be like Him in generosity.” For him, stewardship means caring for family, community, and people around the world.

Every Sunday, their four generations gather, creating space for conversations and values that matter most. Through these traditions, giving has been passed down from his parents to his children and grandchildren. Rocky has supported World Vision for nearly 25 years, and his example inspired his own children to become sponsors themselves.

Leaving a gift in his will

Rocky and his wife chose to include World Vision Canada in their Will because they believe in creating a future filled with hope. For them, it’s about making sure their values live on and continue to help others. “I want to leave the world in a better place not just for my kids and grandchildren, but for every other human being,” Rocky shares. This decision reflects trust, love, and a desire to make a lasting difference.

“Compassionate people are people of action,” Rocky says. For him, empathy is more than a feeling; it is an invitation to make a difference. He believes that real compassion shows up in the choices we make every day, whether it is helping a neighbor, supporting a cause, or creating opportunities for others. It’s a value his family lives out and one they’ve passed down through generations.

You don’t need to be wealthy to leave a legacy

Rocky challenges the misconception that legacy giving is only for the wealthy. For him, generosity isn’t measured by the size of the gift; it’s about the heart behind it. “A dollar can change a life as much as a million dollars,” he explains, emphasizing that every contribution joins a collective effort to create impact. When Canadians come together, regardless of the amount they give, their combined generosity becomes a powerful force for change.

Why World Vision?

Rocky’s early childhood experience taught him that every child deserves safety and opportunity. Today, Rocky sees World Vision as a trusted partner that shares his values, working tirelessly to protect children, break cycles of poverty, and build futures filled with hope. His experience affirms that consistent, values‑driven stewardship can translate into real outcomes for children and communities. By choosing World Vision, you join Rocky in a mission that transforms compassion into lasting impact for generations.

Ready to explore your legacy?

“What is it for you to be a person that is generous? Compassionate? To see your world beyond the timeframe in which you live?” Rocky challenges us to move from consideration to action because the investment you make today can change lives far beyond your own.

If Rocky’s story has inspired you, consider how your own generosity could protect children and transform lives for generations to come. Visit World Vision Legacy Giving or email us at planned_giving@worldvision.ca to schedule a call with an advisor about including World Vision Canada in your Will. Your gift can make the world safer—not just for your family, but for families everywhere.