Plan Ahead
Obviously, you are not able to support every worthwhile cause or organization which needs money and/or asks for your help. But, there are probably some which you are very interested in. When you are budgeting, include the financial support which you can afford for those particular interests. That does two things: 1) It ensures support for your personal interests, and 2) It enables you to say “no” with good reason to all the other requests that come along.

Ask Questions
When you’re approached to give, make sure you know enough about the project or program. Ask for the name of the solicitor and his or her relationship to the organization. Make sure you know that you are giving to an entity which maintains a cost-effective administration. How much of your gift would go to overhead and how much to the actual program? What is the track record of the organization in terms of the benefit it brings to the community?

Keep Records
Because your gifts are tax-deductible, you need to keep records. When you give to the M & M Area Community Foundation, you receive a thank-you letter and a receipt. If you have established a fund with the Foundation, you already have a receipt and a copy of the fund agreement. You will be kept informed periodically about what grants have been made from your fund and the outcome of the program or project that the grant supported.

Gifts can be Confidential
A gift of any amount, or a fund that you establish, will be kept confidential at your request.

There Are Many Ways to Give
Writing a check is only one way to give. A bequest, made in a will, is another way. There are also charitable gift annuities, gifts in kind, endowments, and many other creative forms of giving which may even increase your income and/or insure income for your heirs. Your tax advisor or your attorney can help create the best plan for you and your family.

You Can Always Say No
If you’re unsure or uncomfortable about giving, or if you just don’t want to, you don’t have to have a reason—“Just Say No”. Your resources will not cover every request that comes to you. If you still want to consider a request, take as much time as you need. Don’t be rushed into anything.

Give Proactively
This might be the most satisfying way to give. You look around your community and see a need which you want to address. You plan your giving strategy. This is where the M & M Area Community Foundation comes in. Our staff can help because they know the community’s needs. They know how your gift can best be used, and where you can make a real difference.