By Heather Peeler, President and CEO, ACT for Alexandria
The end of the calendar year is often a time when we give thanks, reflect on our values, and give generously to the people we care about. It is also a time when most people think about supporting the causes they care about – whether through volunteering or supporting organizations financially.
ACT for Alexandria awards more than $2M in grants to local nonprofits each year. People often ask us for advice and guidance for their own personal philanthropy.
Where do I start?
ACT for Alexandria
Regardless of whether you have $50 or $5,000 to give, start by reflecting on your past giving and your goals. What have been the most rewarding charitable or volunteer experiences in your life? Why? What are your passions? What is your vision for our community? Do you want to address immediate needs (such as hunger or shelter) or root causes that get to long-term solutions (such as civil rights and advocacy)? By sitting down with your family and answering these questions, you can identify giving opportunities that align with your goals and values.
What should you pay attention to when considering a donation to a nonprofit?
Alexandria is fortunate to have so many nonprofits that are working every day to improve our community. If you are not sure where to begin, visit Spring2ACTion.org for a list of more than 160 organizations that serve Alexandria. You can search by organization name or type of cause. Ask your friends and neighbors about the organizations they are involved with.
Once you’ve identified an organization, do some research. Visit the organization’s website and poke around. Is their mission clear? Does it highlight stories of success and the impact the organization has in our community? If you want to verify financial statements or claims, Guidestar.org is a useful resource that has financial information about nonprofits including their 990 tax returns and audited financial statements.
Look for ways to get to get involved. Is the organization hosting an upcoming event or volunteer opportunity? Reach out and get to know the staff and other volunteers involved with the organization. Their personal stories will help you assess if and how the organiza-tion aligns with your goals.
Consider how to give.
Of course, any organization would be happy to receive a donation in the form of a check or credit card payment. And most have web-sites that make online donations quick and easy. Did you know you can also give appreciated stock?
Most appreciated stock has a fair market value deduction and can offset capital gains. In addition, you may want to consider making a qualified charitable distribution to a nonprofit from your IRA. Talk to your financial or tax advisor about the variety of ways you can leverage your assets to support causes you care about while benefiting your family.
Charitable giving has many rewards. It provides necessary resources for nonprofits to provide critical services in our community. It can generate a tax benefit for your family. And it gives you the satisfaction in knowing that you are doing something to make a difference in the community you love.
ACT for Alexandria is Alexandria’s home for philanthropy. We are here to help you realize your philanthropic goals. Visit www.actforalexandria.org for more information.
