As a valued supporter of Stepping Stone Emergency Housing, you play an essential role in our mission to provide safe and supportive housing for those in need. Your generosity enables us to create lasting change in our community, and for that, we are deeply grateful. 

As you consider how to support our work, I wanted to share several impactful ways to give that go beyond cash donations. These alternatives not only benefit Stepping Stone but may also provide you with significant tax advantages and allow you to maximize your philanthropic impact.  

Please hold on to this letter as a guide for your future giving. We are grateful for your support of our mission to end homelessness, but this guide is intended to be useful as you consider giving to any charitable organization. We love when you give to us, and we cheer when you give to anyone. 

  1. Gifts of Stocks or Appreciated Assets
    Donating appreciated stocks or other assets can be a highly effective way to contribute. When you give these assets directly to Stepping Stone, you can avoid paying capital gains tax that would apply if you sold the asset. Additionally, you can claim a charitable deduction for the full market value of the asset, which may be more beneficial than giving cash. This means your gift can go further in helping us provide essential services to individuals experiencing homelessness.
  2. Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)
    If you are 70½ years old or older, you can make a Qualified Charitable Distribution from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA). By doing so, you can transfer up to $100,000 directly to Stepping Stone without it being counted as taxable income. This method allows you to fulfill your required minimum distribution (RMD) while simultaneously supporting our mission. A QCD can be a tax-efficient way to give, benefiting both you and the families we serve.
  3. Grants from Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs)
    If you have a donor-advised fund, you can recommend grants to Stepping Stone from your fund. This approach allows you to take an immediate tax deduction when you contribute to your DAF, while distributing the funds over time to the causes you care about. This flexibility means you can support us when it matters most, while also planning your charitable giving strategically.

Each of these options offers unique advantages over traditional cash donations, often leading to greater impact for both you and the organization. We encourage you to consult with your financial advisor or tax professional to explore which method aligns best with your financial goals and philanthropic vision. 

At Stepping Stone Emergency Housing, we believe that every contribution, regardless of the form it takes, is a vital part of our mission to provide hope and support to those in crisis. Your continued partnership is invaluable, and we appreciate your consideration of these alternative giving methods. 

Thank you for your unwavering support. Should you have any questions or wish to discuss these options further, please do not hesitate to reach out. Together, we can make a significant difference in our community. 

For more information, please contact me directly at: 

Paul DeGeest 

paul.degeest@steppingstoneeh.org 

763-323-7006