Endowment gifts
We partner with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines so donors can give lasting support. Your contribution to our endowment creates a steady stream of funding for daily operations and the long-term strength of The Beacon.
Three ways to give for the long term
Grows over time
Like a savings account for the future, the fund is invested for long-term growth and never runs out. Each year, 5% of the fund becomes available to meet pressing needs and promising opportunities.
Give to the fund →
25% Iowa tax credit
Gifts to The Beacon of Life Endowment Endow Iowa Fund qualify for the Endow Iowa Tax Credit, a 25% state tax credit on qualified gifts, offered through the Community Foundation.
Give and earn credits →
Ages 70½ and older
Donors 70½ and older can transfer up to $100,000 of IRA assets to public charities without paying income tax on the distribution, including to The Beacon's Endow Iowa Fund.
Ask about IRA gifts →Endow Iowa Tax Credits
The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines is privileged to offer the Endow Iowa Tax Credit on qualified gifts to The Beacon's Endow Iowa Fund.
25%
State tax credit on qualified gifts. No minimum gift.
• Cash, real estate, farmland, appreciated securities, and outright gifts of retirement assets can all qualify.
• Credits are limited to $100,000 per taxpayer, or $200,000 per couple if both are Iowa taxpayers.
• Credits are first-come, first-served until the yearly state limit is reached. If this year's credits run out, qualified donors are eligible for next year's.
• Donors have five years to use their credits.
• Individuals, businesses, trusts, and estates can all qualify.
Please consult your tax advisor about the federal deductibility of Endow Iowa contributions.
To contribute
Give online with a credit card, debit card, or online check. Mail a check made out to the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines with “The Beacon” on the memo line. Or talk with the Community Foundation about non-cash gifts like stock, real estate, or personal property.
1
Online, by check, or as a non-cash gift through the Community Foundation.
2
The Community Foundation records your gift and sends a charitable gift letter with an Endow Iowa Tax Credit Application.
3
Return the application. The Community Foundation submits it to the State of Iowa, and the state issues your tax credit documents.
Endowment gifts are held and managed by the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines. This page is general information, not tax advice.
