DONOR PORTAL
Charitable Lead Trusts
Making an Impact Today, Providing for Tomorrow
A Charitable Lead Trust (CLT) is a strategic way to support causes you care about now—like the work of the Greater Cabarrus Foundation—while preserving wealth for your loved ones in the future. With a CLT, you can make a significant philanthropic impact today and pass assets to your heirs later with potential tax savings.
How It Works
When you establish a charitable lead trust, you transfer cash, securities, or other assets into the trust. The trust then makes annual payments to the Greater Cabarrus Foundation or one of our affiliated funds for a period of time. After this period ends, the remaining trust assets—often appreciated in value—pass to your family or designated beneficiaries, potentially free of gift or estate taxes.
Types of Charitable Lead Trusts
There are two main types of CLTs, each suited to different financial and philanthropic goals:
- Charitable Lead Annuity Trust (CLAT): Pays a fixed annual amount to the Foundation, offering stability and often preferred when interest rates are low.
- Charitable Lead Unitrust (CLUT): Pays a variable annual amount based on the current value of the trust assets—if your investments perform well, so do your charitable contributions.
Key Benefits
- Immediate Community Impact: Make annual gifts that directly support local programs and initiatives through the Greater Cabarrus Foundation.
- Tax Advantages: Receive a charitable deduction for gift or estate tax purposes at the time the trust is funded.
- Wealth Transfer Efficiency: Pass assets to your heirs at a reduced or even zero tax cost, especially when investment growth outpaces IRS assumptions.
- Flexible Philanthropy: “Pre-fund” your annual giving to the Foundation in one strategic move.
Ready to Explore a Charitable Lead Trust?
Start the conversation with your financial advisor and reach out to our team today. Together, we can design a plan that meets your philanthropic goals while providing meaningful benefits for those you love.
We're Here to Help
At the Greater Cabarrus Foundation, we work hand-in-hand with donors and their advisors to structure charitable lead trusts that align with your goals and values. Whether you’re passionate about early childhood education, community development, or supporting local nonprofits, we’ll help ensure your gift creates lasting impact.
If you have any questions, contact:
Robbie Furr – Director of Development
Phone: 704-707-3228 
Email: robbie@greatercabarrusfoundation.org 
Visit: greatercabarrusfoundation.org
