In the world of philanthropy, few gestures are as enduring—or as impactful—as a planned gift. While annual donations and capital campaigns keep our programs running and fund facilities needs, planned giving can ensure that our mission thrives for generations of students to come. It’s a way for you to leave a legacy that reflects your values—and allows you to gain financial and tax benefits in the process.
So, what exactly is planned giving and why should you consider a planned gift for the Education Foundation?
Planned giving, also known as legacy giving, refers to charitable contributions that are arranged in the present but allocated at a future date, typically through a donor’s will or estate plan. Unlike cash donations made during a donor’s lifetime, planned gifts are often larger and more strategic, designed to support the longterm sustainability of a nonprofit organization.
These gifts can take many forms, from simple to complex, but what they all share is the intention to make a lasting difference.
Benefits for Donors
Planned giving is mostly about generosity—but it’s also smart financial planning. Here’s how donors benefit:
- Tax Advantages: Many planned gifts offer income, estate, and capital gains tax benefits. For example, donating appreciated stock can avoid capital gains taxes while still providing a charitable deduction.
- Income for Life: Vehicles like CGAs and CRTs allow donors to receive a steady income stream, often at favorable rates.
- Legacy and Impact: Planned giving allows donors to make a larger gift than they might be able to during their lifetime, leaving a meaningful legacy aligned with their values and a cause they care about.
- Flexibility and Control: Donors can structure gifts to meet personal, family, and philanthropic goals, and many planned gifts can be modified if circumstances change.
Transformational Impact on Students
For the Education Foundation, planned gifts are a cornerstone of long-term sustainability. Here’s why:
- Financial Stability: Legacy gifts can help create a financial cushion that allows organizations to weather economic uncertainty.
- Mission Expansion: Larger, unrestricted gifts can fund new programs, endowments, or capital improvements that might otherwise be out of reach.
- Stronger donor and community partnerships: Planned giving programs foster meaningful connections with our donors, leading to a bigger impact on students and schools.
- Visibility and Credibility: A robust planned giving program signals organizational maturity and long-term vision, which can attract other major donors and institutional funders.
Cultivating Your Legacy, Setting Up Student Success
Ultimately, planned giving is about planting seeds today that will blossom far into the future. For donors like you, it’s a chance to write your values into the story of our district.
The future is something we can all help shape—one legacy at a time. If you’re interested in discussing how you can leave a lasting legacy in our community, contact Executive Director Paul Olivett at (814) 883-8067 or paul@scasdfoundation.org.