Smart Ways to Give to Thrive: Jim and Pat's Story

Central to Jim and Pat's marriage is a shared commitment to serve and honor the Lord in every facet of their lives – including with their finances. 

"It's imperative for Christian donors to give smart," says Jim, explaining why he and Pat are always looking for creative, tax-wise ways to support ministry.

Jim and Pat have increased their impact and reduced their taxes by giving real estate and by making charitable distributions from their IRA. They also have a values-driven estate plan so they can continue to steward their resources wisely, well beyond their lifetimes.

"This is not our money or our property; it's the Lord's," says Pat. "We're just taking care of it right now, and we want to be faithful."

4 Smart Ways to Give to Thrive

Did you know that you can make a legacy gift to the Christian Reformed Church’s new agency, Thrive?  Your gift can make a real impact to equip and encourage our congregations more than ever before.

Planned gifts offer you smart and creative ways to support Thrive – often while benefiting your family, too!

Here are a few ways that you can multiply the results of your generosity in ways that are simple, flexible, cost-effective and powerful.

Giving Non-Cash Assets

You may be able to increase your potential impact – and reduce your taxes – by giving non-cash assets.

Examples of non-cash assets: 

•    Stock or marketable securities

•    Real estate

•    Business interests

•    Farm commodities

•    Tangible personal property 

Giving From Your IRA

Individuals ages 70 ½ and older can make a sizable gift from an individual retirement account (IRA) to the Christian Reformed Church and receive significant tax benefits in return. 

Giving in a Will

By including charitable giving in your will, you model to your loved ones- a legacy of generosity. You also help ensure that the Christian Reformed Church continues to support local churches well beyond your lifetime.

Giving ways that Pay 

Lifetime income gifts are wonderful solutions for Christians who wish to give in a substantial way but are concerned about having enough retirement income. You can give cash or other property and receive steady income for the rest of your life. The remainder will benefit Christian Reformed Church ministries like Thrive!

Learn More

Reach out to the advancement team at [email protected] 

While the Christian Reformed Church does not offer estate-planning services directly, it does so in partnership with Barnabas Foundation for U.S. donors and Christian Stewardship Services in Canada. You can contact them here: 

•    The Barnabas Foundation at www.barnabasfoundation.org or 1-888-448-3040

•    Christian Stewardship Services at www.csservices.ca or   1-800-267-8890 ext. 217 

* Please note: The names above are representative of a typical donor and may or may not be an actual donor to Thrive.