DONOR PORTAL
Ways to Invest
Philanthropy isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s a continuum of choices. Whether you’re ready to make a gift today, plan for future generosity, or engage your community in giving, there’s a path that can match your values, resources, and goals.
The Greater Cabarrus Foundation offers diverse and flexible options to help you achieve your philanthropic goals.
Below is a framework we use to help community investors see where they are and where they might grow.
Direct Asset Contributions
These options involve contributions of various assets that provide immediate or near-term benefit to the Foundation and the community. You can use these assets to contribute towards an existing fund with GCF, or establish a new fund.
- Cash Gifts
Gifts made via check, credit card, or direct cash provide immediate support to our funds. These donations are eligible for a charitable deduction during the year they are made.
- Online: Make a secure online donation to your fund of choice.
- Checks: Make checks payable to the Greater Cabarrus Foundation and note the fund name in the memo line.
- Securities
Donating appreciated securities, such as publicly traded stocks and bonds, is a tax-smart way to give. By contributing appreciated assets, you may qualify for a tax deduction based on their current market value while avoiding capital gains taxes on the appreciation. We can also discuss gifts involving closely held stock.
- Real Estate
Gifts of real estate—including residential, commercial, or undeveloped land—are an impactful way to contribute. Subject to our gift acceptance policy, these donations may qualify for a tax deduction based on the property’s full market value and can help you avoid capital gains taxes. You may also be able to gift real estate while retaining the right to use the property during your lifetime.
Strategic Giving Structures
- Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)
A Qualified Charitable Distribution is a tax-savvy way to support your favorite causes if you are 70½ or older. You can make tax-free transfers of up to $100,000 annually from your IRA directly to the Foundation. These gifts may count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) without being included in your taxable income.
- Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs)
A Charitable Remainder Trust allows you to place assets into a trust that provides income for yourself and/or other loved ones for life or a set term. After the trust’s term ends, the remaining principal is donated to the Foundation, creating a significant community endowment.
- Charitable Lead Trusts (CLTs)
A Charitable Lead Trust directs income to the Foundation for a specified term, providing immediate philanthropic support. When the term concludes, the remaining principal of the trust returns to your heirs, often resulting in reduced estate and gift taxes.
Legacy and Estate Planning
These options allow you to ensure your support for the Greater Cabarrus community continues for generations through planned giving.
- Bequests
Including the Foundation in your will or estate plan is a powerful way to leave a lasting legacy. Through a Bequest, you can designate a specific amount, asset, or percentage of your estate to the Foundation. These gifts are typically deductible for federal estate tax purposes.
- Retirement Plan Beneficiary Designation
You can designate the Foundation as a beneficiary of your IRA, 401(k), or similar retirement account. This avoids significant taxes on these assets after your lifetime, making it one of the most tax-effective assets to use for a charitable legacy gift.
- Life Insurance Policies
Life insurance can provide a future gift at a minimal current cost. You can donate a fully paid policy you no longer need, which may qualify for an immediate income tax deduction. Alternatively, you can name the Foundation as a beneficiary or continue paying premiums on a partially funded policy, which may make the premium payments tax-deductible.
We encourage you to explore these strategies with your legal, tax, or financial advisors to create a lasting legacy that reflects your values and benefits the community far into the future.
We're Here to Help
Our team is available to discuss in more detail these philanthropic opportunities with you.
If you have any questions, contact:
Robbie Furr – Director of Development
Phone: 704-707-3228
Email: robbie@greatercabarrusfoundation.org
Visit: greatercabarrusfoundation.org
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.