Many of our friends and donors know the joy and fulfillment that comes from participating in the ministry of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem. Although we can not all live in Israel or volunteer for the ICEJ, we can participate in this strategic ministry with our prayers and financial support, impacting the future with what is important to us.
We would like to take a few moments to explain different types of charitable giving so you can decide which one, or perhaps a combination of options, is best for your particular situation. We suggest that you discuss these options with your financial or legal advisor and explore opportunities available to you.
Anyone who remembers the ICEJ in his or her will or estate plans will become a member of the Shomer Israel (Keeper of Israel) Society. What better way to show one’s love for Israel than with a charitable bequest for her future well-being. A memorable and beautiful membership certificate will be sent to you acknowledging your generosity.
Appreciated Assets
A gift of assets which have increased in values since their purchase is particularly attractive under current tax laws. The reason is that if a donor wants to sell their appreciated asset they would have to pay as much as 28% capital gains tax on the increase of value.
However, if the appreciated asset is donated to a not-for-profit organization the donor is able to deduct the full amount of the asset at the full fair market value, as long as it has been held longer than twelve months.
Many people are holding stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or properties that have increased in value many times over. In this case a charitable donation of the asset is a very attractive option.
Life Income Plan
It is not unusual for a donor to be reluctant to make a significant gift because of uncertainty about their future needs. There are ways to give now while securing an income for yourself or another through trusts and annuities. Your attorney can advise you on the options that will enable you to have a greater impact on the future.
Charitable Gift Annuities are a gift that gives back to you or your loved ones. To set up an annuity of $10,000 or greater call the ICEJ and our representatives will take you through each step with ease.
Life Insurance
If you have a life insurance policy that is no longer needed, you can name the ICEJ as the beneficiary. Or you can take out a life insurance policy on yourself just for the purpose of benefiting the Embassy’s work in Israel.
IRA
You can name the ICEJ as the beneficiary on your IRA.
Bequests
The ICEJ has been faithful to our mission over the years, and through your generous planned giving you can assure that it will continue for future generations.
Please consider including the ICEJ in your will and estate planning. You can bequeath to the ICEJ a percentage of your estate, an exact dollar amount, a specific property, or the residue of your estate. (The residue is whatever is left over after other bequests have been granted.)
A Living Memorial
Honoring a loved one through a charitable gift is an especially meaningful act of paying tribute to someone special. Gifts made in honor of family and friends at times such as birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and other notable occasions can be made through:
• A gift of cash
• A gift of stocks or bonds
• A gift of mutual funds
• A gift included in your will or trust
• A gift of life insurance
• A gift of excess retirement funds
As we prepare for and plan the future of this ministry, we ask you to plan with us. Through these simple planned giving instruments you may be able to make a greater and more far reaching impact than you ever thought possible.
Of course, everyone’s situation is different, so be sure to consult a financial adviser about the approach to planned giving that is most appropriate for you. And remember, the decision to give to the ministry of the ICEJ through your estate is one of the best ways to ensure a lasting legacy of blessing.
Please contact us to become a member of the ICEJ’s Shomer Society (“Keeper of Israel”) and include our ministry in your planned giving.