INVEST

Ways to Invest

Direct Asset Distribution

These options involve contributions of various assets that provide immediate or near-term benefit to the Foundation and the community. You can use these assets to contribute towards an existing fund with GCF or establish a new fund.

  • Gifts made via check, credit card, or direct cash provide immediate support to our funds. These donations are eligible for a charitable deduction during the year they are made.

    • Online: Make a secure online donation to your fund of choice.

    • Checks: Make checks payable to the Greater Cabarrus Foundation and note the fund name in the memo line.

  • Donating appreciated securities, such as publicly traded stocks and bonds, is a tax-smart way to give. By contributing appreciated assets, you may qualify for a tax deduction based on their current market value while avoiding capital gains taxes on the appreciation. We can also discuss gifts involving closely held stock.

  • Gifts of real estate, including residential, commercial, or undeveloped land, are an impactful way to contribute. Subject to our gift acceptance policy, these donations may qualify for a tax deduction based on the property’s full market value and can help you avoid capital gains taxes. You may also be able to gift real estate while retaining the right to use the property during your lifetime.

Strategic Giving Structures

  • A Qualified Charitable Distribution is a tax-savvy way to support your favorite causes if you are 70½ or older. You can make tax-free transfers of up to $100,000 annually from your IRA directly to the Foundation. These gifts may count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) without being included in your taxable income.

  • A Charitable Remainder Trust allows you to place assets into a trust that provides income for yourself and/or other loved ones for life or a set term. After the trust’s term ends, the remaining principal is donated to the Foundation, creating a significant community endowment.

  • A Charitable Lead Trust directs income to the Foundation for a specified term, providing immediate philanthropic support. When the term concludes, the remaining principal of the trust returns to your heirs, often resulting in reduced estate and gift taxes.

Legacy and Estate Planning

These options allow you to ensure your support for the Greater Cabarrus community continues for generations through planned giving. 

  • Including the Foundation in your will or estate plan is a powerful way to leave a lasting legacy. Through a Bequest, you can designate a specific amount, asset, or percentage of your estate to the Foundation. These gifts are typically deductible for federal estate tax purposes.

  • You can designate the Foundation as a beneficiary of your IRA, 401(k), or similar retirement account. This avoids significant taxes on these assets after your lifetime, making it one of the most tax-effective assets to use for a charitable legacy gift.

  • Life insurance can provide a future gift at a minimal current cost. You can donate a fully paid policy you no longer need, which may qualify for an immediate income tax deduction. Alternatively, you can name the Foundation as a beneficiary or continue paying premiums on a partially funded policy, which may make the premium payments tax-deductible.

Greater Cabarrus Foundation Community Investment Fund

A Legacy of Giving

For Bob and Susan Smith, giving back to Cabarrus County is a lifelong commitment rooted in gratitude for the community they have called home since 1986.

Through the Bob and Susan Smith Community Investment Fund, they chose to keep their philanthropy local and create lasting support for the organizations they care about most. They were drawn to the Greater Cabarrus Foundation’s hands-on approach, local focus, and dedication to strengthening nonprofit agencies. By establishing an endowed fund, the Smiths ensured their generosity will continue to provide dependable funding for Cabarrus County nonprofits for generations to come.

Connect With Us

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