MAKE A BIGGER IMPACT - WITHOUT WRITING A CHECK 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan offers a variety of giving options that allow you to make a big impact on local youth — while also providing financial and tax benefits for you and your loved ones.
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Many of our supporters are turning to non-cash assets to fuel our mission in powerful, cost-effective ways. This guide will walk you through some of the most popular and strategic options.

STOCKS, SECURITIES, & MUTUAL FUNDS

Gifts of Stocks, Securities, & Mutual Funds Donating appreciated assets — such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds — can help you avoid capital gains taxes while maximizing your gift.

Benefits:
  • Avoid capital gains taxes
  • Receive an income tax deduction for the full value (if held more than one year)
  • Make an immediate impact on our mission
  • Name BBBS as a beneficiary to avoid estate or inheritance taxes later
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Ideal for:
Supporters with appreciated investments seeking a greater tax benefit than cash giving

DONOR-ADVISED FUNDS (DAFs)

A Donor-Advised Fund lets you contribute assets, receive an immediate tax deduction, and recommend grants over time — making it a flexible and convenient way to give.

Benefits:
  • Immediate tax deduction at the time of contribution
  • Flexibility to support BBBS over time
  • Simple to manage and aligned with your giving strategy
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Ideal for:
Donors who want ongoing flexibility in how and when they give

QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTIONS (QCDs)

If you’re age 70½ or older, you can give directly from your IRA to BBBS — potentially lowering your taxable income while satisfying your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).

Benefits:
  • Reduce taxable income
  • Counts toward your annual RMD
  • No income tax on the distribution
  • Immediate impact on youth mentorship
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Ideal for:
Retirees seeking tax-smart giving strategies with their IRAs

GIFTS OF REAL ESTATE

Donating real estate — such as a home, land, or vacation property — can be a transformational way to support our mission while reducing your financial burdens.

Benefits:
  • Eliminate property management and maintenance expenses
  • Avoid capital gains tax
  • Reduce estate taxes
  • Make a lasting difference in your community
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Ideal for:
Property owners ready to simplify their estate and maximize charitable impact

RETAINED LIFE ESTATE

With a Retained Life Estate, you can donate your home now while continuing to live in it for life. BBBS receives the property after your lifetime, and you may receive tax benefits today.

Benefits:
  • Potential tax deduction for the property’s current value
  • Retain the right to live in and use the property
  • Make a significant future gift without changing your living situation
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Ideal for:
Homeowners seeking to leave a legacy without leaving their home

WHY THESE GIFTS MATTER

These smart giving options help you amplify your impact — providing young people with mentors who ignite their potential, while also strengthening our communities, economy, and social fabric.
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They also reflect your values, securing a legacy that lasts well beyond your lifetime.