As the year comes to a close, many supporters begin thinking about how to give in ways that feel meaningful and financially wise. Year-end giving isn’t just about generosity it’s also a chance to use tax-smart strategies that increase your impact without increasing your cost.
For more details on our year-end opportunities, visit our Year-End Giving page
Here are a few simple ways you can make your year-end gift go further for families with special needs.
Donating Appreciated Stock Can Be More Powerful Than Giving Cash
One of the most effective ways to give is by donating appreciated stock instead of writing a check.
Why it matters:
- You avoid capital gains tax on appreciated assets
- You receive a deduction for the full market value
- Your gift often costs you less while helping families more
This approach is especially useful for donors who want to give generously while managing taxes wisely.
A Simple Technique: Give the Asset, Buy It Back
If you like the investments you hold, you don’t need to sacrifice your portfolio to donate strategically.
Many donors use this approach:
- Donate older, low-basis shares
- Buy the same stock again with cash
This resets the cost basis for your investments while avoiding capital gains tax a quiet but powerful year-end move.
For Donors Ages 70½+: Consider a QCD From Your IRA
If you’re 70½ or older, a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) may be the most tax-efficient way to give.
A QCD:
- Is excluded from taxable income
- Counts toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD)
- Avoids the need to itemize
- Often results in lower Medicare and tax-related costs
For many donors, it’s one of the simplest and most beneficial ways to support families.
“Bunching” Gifts May Increase Your Tax Benefits
With higher standard deductions, some donors find that smaller annual gifts don’t allow them to itemize.
By “bunching” several years of giving into one larger year-end contribution, you may:
- Exceed the standard deduction
- Maximize tax benefits
- Still support your favorite nonprofits over time
This can be done directly or through a Donor-Advised Fund.
Your Support Creates Real Inclusion
No matter how you choose to give, your generosity helps Joey’s Journeys provide accessible, inclusive travel experiences for families with special needs. Your year-end gift strengthens our programs and expands what’s possible for the families we serve.
You can make your secure year-end gift here:
Donate Now
And if you’d like to learn more about the partners who help amplify this mission, explore them here:
Our Partners
Make Your Year-End Gift Today
Your thoughtful planning today helps create brighter, more inclusive travel opportunities for families tomorrow.
