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Questions & Answers

Q. May I recommend that the Gift Fund make grants to any charity of my choice?

A. Yes, provided it is a public charity qualified under Section 501(c)(3) of the tax code and is not a Section 509(a)(3) organization (a "supporting organization").


Q. May I recommend grants from the Fund in lieu of completing a pledge that I have made to a charity?

A. No. The Fund will not be bound by such a pre-existing pledge. Also, the Fund may not make grants to provide a private benefit, pay dues or membership fees, purchase tickets to a benefit, or purchase goods at charitable auctions. Grants may not be used for lobbying, political contributions, or political campaigns. You should use the Fund to designate your requests for grants in which the only benefit returned to you is the satisfaction of giving.


Q. May I recommend grants from the Fund to a private foundation?

A. No. The Fund's Declaration of Trust, approved by the National Office of the Internal Revenue Service, specifically forbids such grants.


Q. May the Fund purchase life insurance on a donor's life?

A. No. Such an investment by the Fund would cause legal problems for the Fund.


Q. May I transfer to the Fund restricted or closely-held appreciated securities?

A. The Fund may accept such securities. The trustee will review the proposed donation and promptly notify the donor whether the gift is acceptable. If such a gift is accepted, the donor must determine the fair market value in a reasonable manner for the purpose of valuing the tax deduction. The IRS normally requires an appraisal and the filing of Form 8283 if the claimed value of such securities is more than $5,000.


Q. May I change my mind regarding investments at a later date?

A. No. This is for your own protection. In order to claim a charitable tax deduction, the IRS requires that the gift be irrevocable and complete. If you retained the right to change investments after the initial election, you could lose your deduction.


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