Why We Give

In a nutshell, when we give to a cause that we are passionate about, it makes us feel good. Giving will not only have a positive impact in your community, but it has emotional wellbeing effects, it strengthens our personal values, teaches our children the importance of generosity and encourages others to do the same.

Remember though, there are many ways to give: whether it is in the form of cash donations, volunteering time, donating business goods, or sitting on a committee or being a local leader or organiser of a fundraising event, all forms of giving are good for the heart and soul. Together we thrive.

The Life Stages of Giving

As people move through life, their financial circumstances change. It is also true that people change the way they support the organisations they are passionate about, whether they be registered charities or not-for-profits. **

20’s - Active Participation and Spontaneous Cash Donations

An individual in their twenties is often still studying or establishing their career. They typically contribute by participating in special events, taking part in activities or by making quick cash donations.

30’s - Monthly Giving

In today's ever increasingly busy world, people in their thirties are on the lookout for easier and more convenient ways to give. They choose monthly giving programs or giving circles, where they can donate a specific pre-authorised amount on a monthly basis from their bank account or credit card. Many people give by volunteering time when children are young, satisfying their sense of belonging.

40’s and 50’s - Tax Benefits

People in their forties and fifties often carry their highest levels of personal debt and have a greater need to make annual tax savings. Tax donations can reduce payable income tax, which can be beneficial. It is possible in some cases to salary sacrifice a percentage of pre-tax earnings to a charity. People can also participate in their workplace giving programs, which means they may be able to deduct from their after tax take home earnings.

50’s and 60’s - Listed Securities

Individuals into their mid-to-late careers who hold shares that have increased in value might donate these assets so they can take advantage of tax savings. With retirement becoming a thought, people start to think about leaving a legacy. Many people begin to fill their social calendars by volunteering or sitting on committees so that they can share expertise with younger volunteers in a community group.

70’s and beyond- Bequests

Retirement income and needs become much better understood and many people over this age begin to plan for charitable gifts in their will. This is called a bequest. A bequest is a specific cash amount, or a portion or all of an estate. It may also be beneficial to continue donations to charity as a yearly tax deduction.

No matter how you choose to give, the Community Foundation gratefully accepts all donations. Donations ensure that the community in which we live will thrive for generations to come.

Thank you.

**The information on this website is for general information only.

It should not be taken as constituting professional advice from the website owner - the Mirboo North and District Community Foundation (MNDCF).

MNDCF is not a financial adviser. You should consider seeking independent legal, financial, taxation or other advice to check how the website information relates to your unique circumstances.

MNDCF is not liable for any loss caused, whether due to negligence or otherwise arising from the use of, or reliance on, the information provided directly or indirectly, by use of this website.