If you have followed the Institute for Creation Research for any length of time, you know that our unique ministry is centered on the twin objectives of scientific research and education. Our research in multiple disciplines uncovers evidences that "are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made" (Romans 1:20), plainly revealing the hand of the Creator in the world around us. This in turn feeds our educational programs to train Christians in right-minded thinking that aligns unequivocally with Scripture. And by training others, it is our hope that their testimony to the Bible's authority and accuracy will edify and encourage the church to boldly proclaim His message of salvation.

It may not be widely known, however, that donations to ICR might qualify for a matching gift from many corporate philanthropic programs, offering an excellent way to double your contribution to ICR's work. Virtually all corporate matching gift programs will match donations made to institutions of higher education, and ICR's two graduate degree programs  --our longstanding Masters in Science Education, and our newly established Masters of Christian Education and Apologetics--amply meet most requirements.

Most programs will match gifts of cash or securities made by their employees and retirees, dollar for dollar up to specified limits. And in the case of certain technology companies (like Microsoft), the employee may be given the opportunity to provide much-needed computer software at a fraction of retail costs. What an excellent way to maximize the impact of gifts you may already be making!

But you have to be proactive. Many companies do not actively promote their matching gift programs, leaving it up to individual employees to search them out and initiate the process. Each company has its own guidelines, but most corporate programs follow a fairly simple method:

• Request a Matching Gift Form from your HR department, or log on to your company website to initiate a Matching Gift Request.

• Complete the form--either online or on paper--and submit it to ICR along with your gift.

-- Online notifications can be directed to stewardship@icr.org.

-- Paper forms can be mailed to:

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

• ICR will verify the gift, complete the remainder of the form, and return it to your company with any required documentation.

• The company then issues a matching gift contribution back to ICR.

It's that easy.

So if you work for a company that offers a matching gift program, please prayerfully consider taking advantage of this wonderful benefit. ICR stands ready to help you through the process, so please contact me at 800.337.0375 or stewardship@icr.org should you need assistance. 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. 2010. Maximize Your Impact through Matching Gifts. Acts & Facts. 39 (4): 21.