A Gift That Lasts Beyond a Lifetime

Americans love to give gifts.  It truly is “more blessed to give than to receive.”  We have all seen television commercials depicting extraordinary gift giving.  Just as the violin and piano reach the crescendo, there appears a luxury car with a large red bow on top or a stunning diamond in its velvety case.  Both the recipient and the giver are overjoyed at that moment.  (Materialism issues aside—work with me, folks.)

Our passion for gift giving does not end with gifts to our loved ones.  According to a comprehensive study conducted by the Independent Sector, 89 percent of American households give to charity.  Another study by the Giving USA Foundation revealed that 8 percent of all charitable contributions in 2004 were by bequest, which is a gift made through a person’s last will and testament.

Many believers share a common desire to bless ministry at their death but wonder if there is a way they can be certain their wishes are carried out.  A charitable gift annuity (“CGA”) is an excellent giving vehicle to accomplish this goal.  To create a CGA, a donor makes a contribution of cash, stocks, bonds, or other investments.  In exchange, the donor receives fixed payments (monthly, quarterly, or annually) for life from the charity.  As a bonus, the donor may enjoy tremendous tax advantages by establishing a CGA.

Many donors remember their church or favorite ministry in their last will and testament.  Alternatively, a CGA allows a donor to make a charitable gift today that will bless ministry after the donor passes away.  A CGA is genuinely a gift that lasts beyond a lifetime.

Bruce R. Durkee, J.D., CPA
Former Chief Legal Counsel
AG Financial
1661 N. Boonville Avenue, Suite L
Springfield, MO  65809
Phone:  417.831.4776

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