As our readers know, the chief focus of ICR’s unique ministry is centered on the twin objectives of scientific research and education. Our research initiatives comprise the core of our work, uncovering evidence that is “clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made” (Romans 1:20) and revealing a world so wondrously complex that only an omnipotent Creator could have designed it. Our educational programs utilize ICR research to encourage Christians to align their thinking unequivocally with Scripture, the inspired written record given by the One who created it all. Countless others have been trained to believe, teach, and preach the entirety of the gospel message—beginning with the book of Genesis.

Perhaps not as well known is the fact that many corporations may match gifts made to ICR, essentially doubling some contributions to our ministry. Virtually all corporate matching gift programs allow donations to institutions of higher education, and ICR’s School of Biblical Apologetics, offering both bachelor and master degrees in Christian Education, meets most requirements. Other programs match gifts made in support of nonprofit scientific research—ICR projects in genetics, bio-origins, climatology, and cosmology usually qualify.

Most corporate programs match gifts of cash or securities made by their employees and retirees, dollar for dollar in many cases, up to a specified annual limit. And some technology companies such as Microsoft offer the additional choice to provide much-needed computer software to ICR at a fraction of retail costs. Either way, you will find no better opportunity to maximize the impact of your support with gifts you may already be making!

Companies ordinarily do not actively promote their matching gift programs, leaving it up to the individual to search them out and initiate the process. Yet the process is quite effortless, and most corporate programs follow this simple method:

• Initiate a Matching Gift Request—visit your company website, or request a form from your HR department.
• Complete the form (either online or on paper) and submit it to ICR along with your gift.
  - Online notifications can be emailed to stewardship@icr.org.
  - Paper forms can be mailed to:

ICR
Attn: Henry M. Morris IV
Director of Donor Relations
P. O. Box 59029
Dallas, TX 75229

• ICR will verify the gift, complete the remainder of the form, provide any required paperwork, and return it to your company.
• The company issues a matching gift contribution back to ICR.

It’s that easy.

In just the last year alone, ICR received matching gifts from such familiar companies as General Electric, Boeing, Dell, ExxonMobil, Verizon, and numerous others. So if your employer offers a matching gift program, then prayerfully consider taking advantage of this wonderful benefit to double the impact of your gifts. Representatives at ICR would be happy to help you through the process, so please contact us at 800.337.0375 or stewardship@icr.org. Working together, we can truly “sow bountifully” for the cause of Christ (2 Corinthians 9:6).

* Mr. Morris is Director of Donor Relations at the Institute for Creation Research.

Cite this article: Morris IV, H. 2012. Bountiful Sowing Through Matching Gifts. Acts & Facts. 41 (6): 21.