The Scouting program is in full swing this fall, with Scout units across the nation conducting weekly meetings, attending campouts, selling popcorn, hosting Join Scouting Nights, and making a ton of Scouting memories.
Your generosity makes a difference for young people every day in Scouting.
But what if you could make a difference and also make giving back a bit easier?
Donor Advised Funds (“DAFs”) have grown tremendously over the last few years for just that reason; they make giving easier and provide a number of other benefits as well.
You can establish a DAF using cash, appreciated securities or other liquid assets. After you fund your DAF, you can recommend one-time or ongoing grants from the fund to a qualified nonprofit, including to your Council, one of our High Adventure Bases, the National Eagle Scout Association, or any Scouting initiative.
The Benefits
1. Giving On Your Timeline: You can take your time and recommend thoughtful grants to the causes you love most. You qualify for an income tax charitable deduction in the year you transfer money (or other assets) into the fund, regardless of when you recommend the grant. That means you can contribute money to your DAF and take the deduction this year, then take your time deciding where you’d like to make your charitable distribution recommendations.
2. Growing Your Gifts: You will harness the potential of the market to grow your giving. Your DAF contributions are invested in the market, so there’s a good chance (but no guarantees, of course) that they will grow in value while in the fund. That’s extra money you can use to support Scouting-related causes you’re passionate about.
3. Simplify Tracking: You won’t have to deal with all those receipts. You don’t have to track individual contributions. You will receive a single tax document each year, making record-keeping a breeze.
BONUS BENEFIT: You can also make Scouting the beneficiary of your DAF as part of your estate plan. That way, whatever is left in the fund after your lifetime goes toward our mission.
If you are interested in opening a DAF, consider opening a Scouting DAF with our National organization. Scouting DAFs are the perfect solution for supporters for whom Scouting is one of their most important charitable causes. Since our National organization knows all the local Councils, the Order of the Arrow, NESA, and all the other worthwhile causes within Scouting, Scouting DAFs make giving back to Scouting easy. To do so, visit us here, or contact us at giftplanning@scouting.org so we can help you get started.
Disclaimer: Please note that the above communication is intended for educational purposes only and shall not be construed as providing specific tax, legal, or financial advice. Please consult your tax advisor, attorney, or financial advisor to understand how charitable giving solutions impact your specific circumstances.
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From annual gifts and principal giving to planned gifts and IRA distributions, there's a meaningful way for everyone to move Scouting's mission forward.
