End of Year Giving: You Don’t Always Need Cash to Give

We wanted to take a moment to reflect and thank you for the many gifts, time, talent and treasure, that you’ve given throughout the year. As we prepare our hearts for the Christmas season, we wanted to offer optional ways to give for those who desire to give. Charitable giving deepens your relationship Christ and your Catholic community and results in the satisfaction that you are making a difference.

Often though, when people think about charitable giving, they often picture writing a check or making an online donation. And while those gifts are beautiful and essential, they’re not the only way to give. In fact, many of the most impactful gifts we receive come from people who didn’t dip into their checking account at all.

This isn’t about pressure. It’s about possibility. If you take a moment to reflect on all the assets God has entrusted to you—retirement accounts, stocks, grain, real estate—you may find new ways to give that align with your values, support your parish or favorite ministry. As you begin planning for the end of the year with your financial advisor, discuss with them the options below that may offer substantial tax savings.

1. Charitable Distributions from Retirement Accounts

If you’re 70½ or older, you can make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) directly from your IRA to a qualified charity. This gift counts toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) and is excluded from taxable income. It’s a powerful way to steward your retirement assets while supporting the Church.

2. Gifts of Stock

Do you have appreciated stocks in your portfolio that no longer serve your financial goals? Donating them directly through to the Catholic Foundation can help you avoid capital gains tax while supporting your parish, school, or ministry. We make the process simple and secure. Get the form on the bottom of the page, here.

3. Gifts of Grain

For our farming families, a gift of grain can be a meaningful way to support the Church. By donating grain before it’s sold, you may reduce taxable income while still claiming production expenses. It’s a way to give from your harvest—literally. Get the form on the bottom of the page, here.

4. Donor-Advised Funds

A donor-advised fund (DAF) allows you to make a charitable contribution, receive an immediate tax deduction, and then recommend grants to your favorite Catholic causes over time. It’s a flexible, strategic tool for families who want to plan their giving thoughtfully. Learn more about Donor-Advised Funds through the Catholic Foundation here.

5. Gifts of Real Estate, Business Interests, or Life Insurance

You can also give through assets like real estate, privately held business interests, or even a life insurance policy you no longer need. These gifts often require a bit more planning, but they can be transformational for your parish or ministry—and for your legacy. Contact us today if you'd like to discuss your specific situation.

6. Legacy Gifts and Estate Planning

Including the Catholic Foundation in your will or estate plan is one of the most powerful ways to ensure your faith continues to bear fruit for generations. We can help you explore bequests, endowments, and other planned giving options that reflect your values and direct your gift towards exactly what you care about most from your local Catholic school to seminarian education. Contact us today to talk about your situation. Or, we always offer estate planning resources on our website here.

How Can We Help?

You don’t need a big checking account to make a big impact. You just need a generous heart and a willingness to explore the possibilities. If you’re discerning how to give this season—or planning ahead for your 2025 taxes—I’d be honored to walk with you.

We help people of all walks of life give in the way that works best for them. From immediate gifts to endowments, from cash to grain, we’re here to make stewardship simple, faithful, and effective. Reach out anytime. Let’s steward well, together.

Elizabeth Williams
Executive Director
507-218-4098
ewilliams@catholicfsmn.org

Parish Resource:

Are you a parish or other Catholic organization in Southern Minnesota seeking to receiving non-cash gifts this season? Please download our print-friendly flyer to share with your parishioners or supporters today! Stewarding the gifts of Southern MN Catholics is what we do!