Ways to Give

The Charlevoix County Community Foundation has offered a variety of giving options to individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofits since 1992. Contributions of all sizes to make a difference close to home. 

 

Cash:  

A cash gift is the easiest way to give. Your donation is deductible as a charitable gift for federal tax purposes.

Some people are giving part of their stimulus payment if they are in a position to do so. Making a contribution to the Urgent Needs Fund will provide resources for the Community Foundation to support nonprofit partners that are adapting and scaling up to support our neighbors in need.  Contributions to the Community Endowment will help meet our community's needs in the future, no matter what the future holds.  

Here is another reason to help your community: the charitable giving incentive that was included in the CARES Act. 

 

future gifts:

Including a future gift to the Community Foundation in your will is meangingful philanthropy almost anyone can do.  Language in your will can specify a dollar amount, a percentage of your estate, or what remains after other bequests — including those to family members — are made. Supporting your charitable interests while achieving significant tax advantages for your heirs can be accomplished by directing a portion of your retirement assets (such as an IRA) to the Community Foundation in your estate plan.  Still others will name the Community Foundation as a beneficiary of your policy (or a portion) or purchase a new policy to benefit causes you care about most. Learn more about how to leave a legacy and the Legacy Society.

 

Retirement assets:

You may be able to use retirement assets to give now.  Are you 70 1/2*?  Do you have an IRA?  Learn more about the benefits of making a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) to the Community Foundation. 
*The SECURE Act, effective January 1, 2020, increased the age at which IRA account holders must take a distribution (RMD) from 70 1/2 to 72. We believe you remain eligible for the Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) in the year you turn 70 1/2, but we urge you to check first with your professional advisor.

 

Securities:

Gifts of appreciated stocks or bonds can provide a maximum charitable benefit while reducing or eliminating the impact of capital gains taxes.  For more information, contact Sara Ward at 231-536-2440 or sward@c3f.org.

 

Tributes and Memorials

The Charlevoix County Community Foundation offers many opportunities to help you recognize special people who have made a difference in your life and in the life of the community. We accept donations made as a tribute or memorial to an individual, family or organization.  Special funds can also be created to handle specific tributes and memorials. 

 

Professional Advice

The Charlevoix County Community Foundation provides general gift, estate, and financial planning information and does not provide legal, accounting, or other professional advice.  For assistance in planning charitable gifts with tax and other financial implications, the services of appropriate professional advisors should be obtained.  An attorney should be consulted for advice if your plans require preparation or revision of a will, trust, or other legal document.  Tax issues can require specialized assistance too, as tax deductions may vary based on individual circumstances and applicable federal discount rates.