Myth: You have to be wealthy to give.
Fact: Gifts come in all sizes, and your support really makes a difference. A donation of just $79 to the Annual Fund will provide four students the opportunity to visit the Clay Center for free.
 
  
Myth: Giving could hurt my financial situation.
Fact: Great tax benefits exist for those who give to charity. For example, if you are in the 33% tax bracket, the actual cost of a $100 donation is only $67 ($100 less the $33 tax savings). Donations to non-profit organizations pay dividends at tax time.


  
Myth: Charitable gifts are cash only.
Fact: Some of the best charitable gifts are made with appreciated stock and other securities. By donating stock, you can enjoy a charitable tax deduction while avoiding capital gains taxes. Even better, your current cash flow is not reduced. 

  
Myth: Giving means making a donation right now.
Fact: Deferred gifts, such as bequests in wills or trusts, support our future endeavors without disrupting your current financial picture. A life income gift or charitable gift annuity also may provide an annual income payment in exchange for an up-front gift of assets.

  
Myth: My gift won’t have a lasting impact.
Fact: Consider a contribution to the endowment fund. With your help, the Clay Center can continue to provide art and science education for many years to come.

  
Myth: There’s nothing in it for me.
Fact: By making a gift of $350 or more to the Annual Fund, you are eligible to receive full membership benefits. In addition, sponsoring a program or performance provides you with exclusive networking and entertainment experiences and accentuates your commitment to the community. There are a variety of sponsorship levels to meet your needs.

  
Myth: I don’t have a reason to give.
Fact: Contributions can be given in place of celebratory gifts or tokens of sympathy. You can honor someone, mark a special occasion or remember a loved one by making an honorarium or memorial donation in their name. 
  
  
Myth: The Clay Center doesn’t need my help.
Fact: Your ongoing support is crucial to the fulfilling of our mission. As a non-profit organization, we depend heavily on the contributions of donors to help us continue to provide enriching and educational experiences for children all across the region. Every gift and every additional advocate we have speaks volumes about our purpose and mission.

  
Consider this: What is now the Clay Center was once simply a vision shared among a few individuals.

We appreciate all support and encourage you to never underestimate the power of how your commitment can help change a child’s life.

For information on all types of giving, contact our development office at 304-561-3588.