Unlocking Your Legacy: Impactful Giving Today and Tomorrow 

The spirit of generosity is strong in our communities, as highlighted by the 2023 Giving USA Report released in June 2024. Notably, charitable bequests have reached nearly $43 billion—an impressive 4.8% increase from last year—showcasing a remarkable commitment to philanthropy that keeps pace with inflation. This significant surge signals the potential for transformative change across our neighborhoods and beyond. 

At Greater Houston Community Foundation (Foundation), we are privileged to collaborate with donors who aspire to amplify their impact not just in the future, but also in the present. By including a bequest to their fund in their will or trust now, or by naming the Foundation as a beneficiary of their IRA, these donors will contribute to improving the quality of life in our region for generations to come. 

Giving Today: Impactful Benefits 

Many of our dedicated supporters are actively engaged in giving during their lifetimes, reaping both personal fulfillment and financial benefits. Here are some compelling reasons to consider making a charitable contribution today: 

Tax Benefits: Donating now may provide you with immediate advantages, such as potential income tax deductions that can reduce your taxable income while giving you the satisfaction of seeing your impact in real time. Contributions to a donor advised fund at the Foundation can help you maximize your tax efficiency while supporting the causes you care about. 

Family Involvement: Establishing a family donor advised fund encourages your loved ones to participate in your philanthropic efforts, fostering a legacy of giving across generations. 

Community Engagement: Many donors cherish the opportunity to engage directly with the organizations they fund, whether volunteering their time, serving on boards, or participating in site visits to witness the change they support firsthand. 

Witnessing the Impact: Your contributions can address pressing needs in our community, allowing you to follow the journey of the individuals and organizations you support. 

Continue reading: 

Legacy of Love: Rethinking Family & Philanthropy

Giving With Clarity: The Power of Intentional Giving in Family Philanthropy

Giving for Tomorrow: Building Your Legacy 

Planning for the future is just as important as making an impact today. Every donor carries a unique philanthropic story, a narrative they’ve carefully crafted over time. For many, the desire is for that impact to resonate far beyond their own lifetime. By thoughtfully integrating philanthropy into your estate plan, you actively shape and ensure the enduring power of your generous legacy. 

Including a bequest in your will or trust to Greater Houston Community Foundation is a deeply personal and enduring way to solidify your legacy and ensure the causes closest to your heart continue to thrive. Your life’s experiences and passions have shaped who you are and what matters most to you. 

A legacy gift is an opportunity to translate those values into lasting action, creating a permanent connection to the community you care about. By leaving a legacy through Greater Houston Community Foundation, you can ensure your impact continues for generations to come, shaping a brighter future for our community. 

Continue reading: How To Get Started with Legacy Giving

Your Lifetime Giving Partner 

We invite you to connect with our dedicated team of philanthropic advisors at Greater Houston Community Foundation to discuss how we can support you today and in the future. We can partner with you to weave lifetime giving into your philanthropic strategy—one that may already encompass an estate gift.  

Turn your charitable vision into tangible actions. Start now to forge a legacy that aligns with your values and contributes significantly to the community you call home. Contact Kevin Pickett to learn how we can help support your unique philanthropic needs.  

More Helpful Articles by Greater Houston Community Foundation:

• Bob Harvey’s Amplified Giving: Evolving Philanthropy to Shape Houston’s Future
• What is a Donor Advised Fund? The Complete Guide
• What’s the Difference Between a Designated Fund vs. a Field-of-Interest Fund?
• Supporting Education: A Guide to Scholarships for Donors
• Philanthropy at Home: Nurturing Values Across Generations

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