For 40 years the Institute for Creation Research has led the fight to defend the faith by uncovering and explaining God’s matchless creation as expressed in His perfect Word. Many have partnered with us through the years by graciously sharing their resources to ensure our vital work continues, and for this we are deeply thankful.
Yet the battle continues to rage while the Lord tarries and we need your help to soldier on. Please prayerfully consider the following ways you can “give thanks unto the LORD” by supporting our Kingdom work to “make known his deeds among the people” (Psalm 105:1).
Cash Gifts—Without question, cash gifts are the lifeblood of our ministry. Various tax-saving financial vehicles can be tremendously beneficial, yet they will never replace cash as the most practical, versatile form of giving. Thankfully, our nation still acknowledges gifts to qualified charities, and all gifts to ICR are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Stock Gifts—Avoid the tax burden on the sale of appreciated stocks, bonds, or mutual funds by gifting shares directly to ICR. Shares that have been held for at least one year can be given to ICR, providing not only a tax deduction at their full current value, but also avoiding tax on any gains. Contact ICR for our brokerage account information and let us help you facilitate your gift.
Charitable Gift Annuities—For senior donors, rates on CGAs—usually 5 to 8 percent, depending on age—provide the absolute best return in an unstable market. But unlike other secure investments, these special annuities offer additional benefits of guaranteed income for life, a present tax deduction, and a tax-free portion of future payments. Contact ICR for a customized proposal, or visit www.icr.org/give to create your own.
Workplace Campaigns—Many corporate and government organizations offer giving programs that provide the convenience of automatic payroll deduction to fund charities of the employee’s choosing. If you desire to support our work in this way, ICR is approved by the Combined Federal Campaign for federal government and military personnel, by the State Employee Giving Campaigns in California and Texas, and by all corporate giving campaigns as a write-in designation.
Gifts from IRAs—In years past, individuals 70½ years or older could make tax-free gifts to ICR up to $100,000 directly from their IRAs without having to declare it as income. Congress has not extended tax-free IRA withdrawals for 2010 as of this writing, but we are hopeful this option will be available by year-end.
Matching Gift Programs—Many companies match gifts made by their employees and retirees to qualifying organizations, and ICR’s graduate education program and research projects may qualify. This is an excellent way to maximize the gifts you already make, so check with your HR department today to get started.
Wills and Trusts—Estate tax law changes provide opportunities to leave more to family members and charitable interests free of tax by making planned gifts in your will or through a trust. Discover how you can best use your resources for God’s work by visiting www.icr.org/give and reviewing our free educational guides.
If you are able, please consider how you can help in our work and contact me if you need assistance. From all of us at ICR, have a most blessed Thanksgiving reflecting on the One to whom all praise is due.
* Mr. Morris is Director of Donor Relations at the Institute for Creation Research.
Cite this article: Morris IV, H. 2010. Give Thanks. Acts & Facts. 39 (11): 21.
