Smart Ways to Give Back with United Way of Champaign County
For years, you’ve invested in Champaign County—helping neighbors live safer, healthier, and more stable lives. Your generosity has powered change and ensured your dollars go where they’re needed most. Now, there are even more ways to continue your impact with tax-smart charitable giving.
Most people give through payroll deduction, credit card, or check. But did you know there are several other ways to make a lasting gift? Explore the options below to find the best way to give back to your community.
Give from Your IRA (Qualified Charitable Distribution)
If you’re 70½ or older, the IRS requires you to take annual distributions from your IRA—distributions that are normally taxed. Instead, you can make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) directly to United Way of Champaign County and avoid taxes on up to $100,000 per year.
This simple rollover contribution helps you reduce your taxable income while supporting local families. Contact your broker or fund manager and let them know you’d like to donate all or part of your QCD to United Way. To ensure processing for year-end giving, start by December 22.
Donate Appreciated Stock
Donating stock is one of the most tax-efficient ways to give. By transferring appreciated securities, you can:
-
Avoid paying capital gains tax
-
Deduct the full fair-market value of your gift
To initiate a stock transfer, ask your portfolio manager to call Katie Braemer, Director of Finance, at 217-352-5151. Because transfers take a few business days, we recommend beginning no later than December 23 for year-end giving.
Include United Way in Your Will
Leaving a gift in your will is a powerful way to create a legacy of community impact. United Way has partnered with FreeWill, an easy, free online tool that helps you create a legally valid will in as little as 20 minutes. Protect your loved ones and the causes you care about while making sure your values live on.
Endowment Gifts
An endowment gift creates a permanent stream of income that supports United Way’s work year after year. These gifts can be made at any time or incorporated into your estate plan. To learn more, contact Becca Guyette, Chief Development Officer, at 217-352-5151.
Year-End Giving Deadlines
-
Checks – Make payable to United Way of Champaign County. Checks must be postmarked by December 31 (or by December 30 if the 31st falls on a Sunday).
-
Credit Cards – Online gifts must be processed by 11:59 PM CST on December 31. Credit card donations can also be made by phone during business hours.
Continue Your Impact Today
Every gift—whether from your IRA, stock portfolio, estate plan, or credit card—helps build a stronger, more stable Champaign County. To learn more about planned giving opportunities or to start your donation, contact Becca Guyette at 217-352-5151 or email her directly at becca@unitedwaychampaign.org.
Make a smart gift. Strengthen your community.