One of the strongest exhortations for Christian giving is found in Paul’s encouragement to the believers in Corinth. In 2 Corinthians 8, Paul praised the example set by the Macedonian churches who, in spite of “great trial of affliction” and “deep poverty,” had given “beyond their ability” to help the impoverished believers in Jerusalem (vv. 2-3). Paul challenged the Corinthians: “But as you abound in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us—see that you abound in this grace also” (v. 7).
Just as faith and love are “graces,” so too are giving and the sharing of one’s means. While giving isn’t commanded of believers, it expresses our love for our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ—the ultimate model of giving and grace (vv. 8-9).
If ICR’s ministry is a blessing to you, we offer many ways you can “abound in this grace also.” We encourage you to consider how you can help our ongoing work this fall.
Cash Gifts: Cash donations are not only fully tax-deductible as allowed by law but are also the most helpful form of support for ICR’s work and the primary fuel that powers our daily operations. Please visit ICR.org/donate to donate online or set up recurring monthly gifts.
IRA Gifts: IRA owners 70 ½ years or older can make gifts up to $100,000 to ICR under the popular charitable rollover provision. These qualified distributions do not count as income, so they are free from federal income tax and also count toward required minimum withdrawals. If you would like to bless ICR with a gift, please contact your IRA administrator or visit ICR.org/donate_iras for more information.
Stock Gifts: With the volatility in the stock market, this may be a good time to give appreciated stocks, bonds, or mutual fund shares to ICR in support of our ministry. Shares held for at least one year can be gifted directly to ICR, providing you with a full tax deduction at their current value while avoiding capital gains tax. Please contact ICR for our brokerage information or visit ICR.org/donate_stocks.
Workplace Campaigns: Large corporations and government organizations offer an automatic payroll deduction option to their employees as an easy way to give to the charity of their choice. Corporate employees can recognize ICR as a write-in designation, and federal government and military personnel can give through the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC #23095, National/International section).
Matching Gifts: Many companies will match gifts made by employees and retirees to ICR and the ICR Discovery Center for Science & Earth History. Matches are typically made dollar-for-dollar, providing a great opportunity to “sow bountifully” (2 Corinthians 9:6) by doubling your gift. Check with your HR department to get started or visit ICR.org/matching-gifts.
Charitable Gift Annuities (CGA): For supporters over the age of 65, CGAs provide the best guaranteed returns in the market today— typically 4.0% to 8.5% depending on your age. For as little as $10,000, an ICR gift annuity will provide fixed income for life, a present tax deduction, and a tax-free portion on future payments—benefits secular annuities can’t match. If you’d like to help ICR and still need ongoing income, this option may be right for you. Not all states qualify, so please contact us for a customized no-obligation proposal.
ICR is grateful for all of you serving alongside us with your financial support, and we truly “thank…God upon every remembrance of you” (Philippians 1:3). We only move forward as the Lord provides through you, so please prayerfully consider how you can partner with us. We welcome the opportunity to personally serve you at 800.337.0375 or stewardship@ICR.org.
* Mr. Morris is Director of Donor Relations at the Institute for Creation Research.
