Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I create income with my gift?

  Yes! SHELTER, Inc. has many plans for Gifts that Pay You Income. You can also provide income for a child, a grandchild, a parent, or a friend. That income can increase cash flow now and/or during retirement, pay for a college education, provide income for aging parents, or perhaps assist a loved one with special needs. You can also provide income to our organization by using a Charitable Lead Trust.

• I am unable to make a current gift, but I'd still like to support SHELTER, Inc. in the future. Any ideas?

  An easy and low-cost way to make a gift to our organization is to include us in your will or revocable trust. Each individual legacy contributes to our financial strength and ability to meet the needs of those in our community. If you have not already done so, please consider putting SHELTER, Inc. in your will or revocable trust. See our Bequest Language page for samples of how to do this. You can also designate SHELTER, Inc. the beneficiary of Life insurance, annuities, or Retirement-Plan Benefits.

• What asset should I use to make my gift?

  While cash or a check is a simple way to make a gift, you might want to consider the following:

  Gift Type	Current income-tax deduction Generate income
  Cash	Current income-tax deduction Generate income
  Appreciated securities, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds	Elimination or reduction of capital-gain tax Current income-tax deduction Generate income
  Transfer of residential, commercial, or undeveloped real estate	Elimination or reduction of capital-gain tax Income- and estate-tax savings Generate income Relief from management
  Donate an interest in closely held or family business stock	Reduce the cost of passing the business to heirs Income- and estate-tax savings Generate income
  Give us tangible personal property like art, books, or collectibles	An income-tax charitable deduction
  Make our institution the owner and beneficiary of life insurance or annuities	Income- and estate-tax savings

• Can I direct how SHELTER, Inc. will use my gift?

  Most often the answer to this is “yes”!! Many donors direct that their gifts be used to fund programs, support specific departments, or remember a loved one. Please be sure to discuss this when you make your gift.

• Why should I consider a gift to SHELTER, Inc.?

  Gifts are made for many different reasons. Often gifts are made:

  • To express gratitude for the support you received.
  • To honor a loved one.
  • To ensure SHELTER, Inc. will remain a vibrant and strong organization within the community.
  • To help SHELTER, Inc. provide the very best support for those in need, regardless of their finances.
  • To celebrate a special occasion.

  Please contact Julie.Clemens@shelterinc.org at 925-957-7572 for more information.