Planned Giving

The great trumpeter Tom Harrell said in a live radio interview with VJC Director Eugene Uman:

…Music heals through the act of bringing people together to experience community and positive energy.

During his performance at the VJC, he remarked on how impressed he was by the feeling of unity and joy that he felt at our venue.

There is a way for you to make a difference, to help ensure that the feelings of unity and joy that Tom observed endure seamlessly into the future. Your actions can guarantee that these positive experiences remain readily available, in perpetuity, to all.

After providing for your loved ones in your estate planning, we would be grateful if you would consider making a gift through our planned giving program.

Please contact your financial planner or VJC Director Eugene Uman (802-254-9088 ext. 3 / eugene@vtjazz.org) to confidentially discuss your options for giving.

Musician and VJC supporter Lynne Meryl has arranged with her financial consultant to include the Jazz Center in her future plans. In a letter to the VJC describing her gift, Lynne wrote:

I want to see jazz continue for future generations. The VJC does a stellar job of inspiring, educating and teaching this music we love so much. It is with great appreciation that I have chosen to leave them money for this purpose.

Alternatives to traditional charitable giving can offer considerable tax benefits and align with your financial planning goals. If you’re looking to make a greater impact on the people and causes you care about, consider options such as donating securities, making contributions from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA), or distributing funds from a donor-advised fund (DAF).

Appreciated Securities

Donating appreciated securities, like stocks or mutual funds, can be a tax-efficient way to give to charity. First, ensure the securities have been held for more than one year to qualify for the tax benefits. Next, contact the charity to confirm they accept securities and obtain their brokerage information. Then, reach out to your brokerage to initiate the transfer, specifying the number of shares and the securities to donate. This allows you to avoid capital gains tax on the appreciated value and claim a charitable deduction for the fair market value of the donation. Finally, keep a record of the transaction and the charity’s receipt for tax purposes. It’s a great way to support your favorite causes while maximizing your tax benefits.

Individual Retirement Account (IRA)

Unlock the power of your IRA by making a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) that not only supports a cause you care about but also offers tax advantages. If you’re 70½ or older, you can directly donate up to $100,000 to a qualified charity from your traditional IRA without it counting as taxable income. Simply choose a charity you love, reach out to your IRA custodian for a direct transfer, and watch your generosity create a positive impact.

Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)

A donor-advised fund (DAF) is a versatile philanthropic tool that allows you to make charitable contributions, receive immediate tax benefits, and recommend grants to your chosen charities over time. Set up your fund through a sponsoring organization and contribute cash, appreciated securities, or other assets. Your donations can be invested to grow tax-free, maximizing your charitable impact over time. Imagine the satisfaction of knowing your contributions are not only making a difference today but also have the potential to grow, allowing you to support causes you’re passionate about in the future.