The end of the year has a way of sneaking up on us. Between holiday shopping, family gatherings, and busy schedules, charitable giving can easily become another item on your December to-do list.
But when it comes to year-end charitable giving, a little planning can make a big difference.
Whether you’re supporting a favorite nonprofit, giving appreciated stock, or exploring ways to leave a lasting impact in Crawford County, starting early gives you more time to make thoughtful decisions.
Why Timing Matters for Charitable Gifts
Not all charitable gifts can be completed with the click of a button.
While online gifts and checks may be relatively straightforward, other types of charitable contributions require additional steps.
For example:
- Gifts of stock: Transferring shares from your investment account to a charity can take several business days, sometimes longer.
- Gifts of real estate: Donating property may require appraisals, legal documents, and additional review.
- Gifts of business interests: These contributions can involve complex tax and legal considerations.
- Gifts from an IRA: Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) must be handled correctly and completed within the applicable tax year.
Waiting until the final days of December can make these transactions more difficult, and some gifts may not be completed in time to count for the current tax year.
Take a Look at What You’ve Already Given
Before making your final charitable contributions of 2026, take a few minutes to review your giving so far.
Ask yourself:
- Have I supported the organizations and causes that matter most to me?
- Are there community needs I’d like to help address?
- Do I have appreciated assets that might be useful for charitable giving?
- Have my financial circumstances or charitable goals changed this year?
These questions can help you decide where you want to make an impact and whether there are giving options you haven’t considered.
Consider More Than Just Writing a Check
Cash gifts are convenient, but they aren’t the only way to give.
Depending on your financial situation, gifts of appreciated stock, real estate, or other assets may offer tax advantages.
If you’re age 70½ or older, you may also be eligible to make a Qualified Charitable Distribution directly from your IRA.
The right approach depends on your circumstances, which is why it’s important to involve your tax or financial advisor before making certain gifts.
If you’d like to explore these options further, read our articles on giving more than cash and giving directly from your IRA.
You Don’t Have to Figure It Out Alone
Charitable giving should feel meaningful, not overwhelming.
Crawford Heritage Community Foundation works with individuals, families, and their professional advisors to explore giving options that support the causes they care about.
Whether you want to make a gift today, support a particular nonprofit, or establish a charitable fund that will continue making a difference for generations, we’re here to help.
You don’t need to have every detail figured out before reaching out. Sometimes, a simple conversation is the best place to start.
Make Your Year-End Giving Count
December 31 is an important deadline for many charitable gifts, but your planning doesn’t have to wait until then.
Starting now gives you time to consider your options, coordinate with your advisors, and make sure your generosity supports what matters most to you.
Your charitable giving can make a difference today and help strengthen Crawford County for years to come.
Let’s Talk About Your Charitable Goals
You are always welcome to reach out if you would like to talk about how the Community Foundation can support your charitable goals. We have helped many generous people plan meaningful gifts that create lasting impact in our region. Integrity is central to our work. We take your trust seriously and treat every conversation and plan with the highest level of confidentiality.
If you would like to explore options, discuss your vision, or simply ask questions, please contact:
Christian Maher, Executive Director
executive@crawfordheritage.org
814-336-5206
Did you miss our last article? Read it here: Are You 70½ or Older? Your IRA Could Make a Difference