Giving is a major theme in Scripture, with words like “give,” “gift,” and “gave” appearing more than 2,000 times. But by far, the strongest “giving” passage is Paul’s expectation of support from the church at Corinth. 2 Corinthians 8 begins with Paul’s praise for the sacrificial giving by the Macedonian churches and continues by urging the Christians at Corinth to follow their example (2 Corinthians 8:1-7). Noting that Christ’s sacrifice set the ultimate pattern for our instruction (vv. 8-9), Paul then gives practical and encouraging advice that ends with a direct charge to the Corinthians to show “the proof of your love” that he has boasted about (v. 24). That’s quite a strong appeal to support the cause of Christ.
If ICR’s work has been a blessing to you, please know we offer a wide variety of ways to show “the proof of your love” for our ministry. Several are listed below, and like the apostle Paul, we encourage you to consider how you can help the work of the Kingdom through ICR’s ministry this fall.
For Federal and Military Employees: U.S. federal government workers and military personnel can support ICR’s research and educational programs via automatic payroll deduction through the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC). Our CFC identification number is 23095, or look for ICR in the National/International section of your campaign brochure when making your pledge this fall.
For State Employees in CA and TX: Like the CFC program, state employees in California and Texas can give directly to ICR through their state employee workplace campaigns. Please consider designating the Institute for Creation Research on your pledge form this season.
For Stock Donors: With the stock market at historic highs, this may be the best time to consider gifts of stocks, bonds, or mutual fund shares. Shares held for at least one year can be gifted directly to ICR, providing you with a tax deduction at their full current value while avoiding tax on any gain. Talk about a double bounty! Contact ICR and let us help you facilitate your gift, or visit www.icr.org/donate_stocks to find ICR’s brokerage account information.
For Matching Gift Donors: Many companies match gifts made by their employees and retirees for donations given to qualifying organizations, and ICR’s graduate education programs and research projects usually qualify. With matches typically made dollar for dollar, this is a great opportunity to “sow bountifully” (2 Corinthians 9:6) by doubling the value of your gift! Check with your HR department today to get started.
For Senior Donors: For donors over 65, Charitable Gift Annuities provide the best guaranteed returns in the market today—typically 4.5 to 9%, depending on age. For as little as $10,000, you can create an ICR gift annuity that provides guaranteed income for life, a present tax deduction, and a tax-free portion on future payments—benefits other secure investments cannot match. If you want to support ICR’s work but still need ongoing income, this option may be right for you. Not all states qualify, so contact us for a customized proposal, or use the Planned Giving link at www.icr.org/donate to create your own.
A Note for Our IRA Donors: As of this writing, Congress has not yet extended the popular IRA Charitable Rollover for 2014, but experts believe it will likely pass later this year. This special provision allows traditional or Roth IRA owners 70½ years or older to authorize charitable gifts up to $100,000 directly to ICR without declaring it as income, providing the twofold advantage of giving completely tax-free while also satisfying required minimum distributions. If this seems right for you, be prepared to contact your IRA administrator, providing this excellent program is approved.
As always, ICR remains deeply grateful for those of you who serve alongside us with your financial support, and we truly “thank…God upon every remembrance of you” (Philippians 1:3). But we only proceed as the Lord provides through you, so please prayerfully consider these special advantages in support of our ministry. We welcome the opportunity to serve you—contact us at 800-337-0375 or stewardship@icr.org.
* Mr. Morris is Director of Donor Relations at the Institute for Creation Research.
