Your legacy,
their future
Empower future generations of families by including Bethany in your estate plans, ensuring long-lasting support for children and families in need.
6 ways to give
What are my options?
Stocks, Securities, or Mutual Funds
If you're looking for a tax-smart way to share your blessings with children and families, consider a gift of stock.
Bequests
Create or update your legally binding will through FreeWill. It’s 100% free to you, and most people finish in 20 minutes or less.
Grant from a Donor-Advised Fund
Simplicity: Your sponsoring organization (e.g., NCF, Fidelity Charitable, Schwab Charitable, or Vanguard Charitable) manages record-keeping, disbursements (including automatic options), and tax receipts, providing a single document at tax time. It’s a straightforward gift that doesn’t impact your cash flow.
Timing: Request donations anytime or set up automatic recurring gifts on your preferred schedule.
Flexible funding options: Support your DAF with cash, stock, securities, real estate, or even cryptocurrency.
Financial advisors: If your clients wish to give through their DAF, please use Bethany Christian Services’ tax ID: 38-1405282.
Beneficiary Designations
Designate Bethany Christian Services as a beneficiary of an asset with FreeWill's easy-to-use software that helps guide you through the process!
Retirement Accounts
Qualified charitable distributions (QCDs), also known as IRA charitable rollovers, are the savviest way for individuals age 70½ or older to use their IRAs to maximize their charitable impact.
Charitable Gift Annuity Calculator
For more information about Charitable Gift Annuities or to talk with a representative about our programs and ways to give, please contact us at (800)238-4269 or email giftplanning@bethany.org.
And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. — Hebrews 13:16
Real impact of legacy giving
See how others are changing lives for generations to come through thoughtful, planned giving.
“Giving beyond our understanding”
- Garth and Mary’s Story
“Your support has a huge impact on so many kids in foster care. And it impacted me.”
Imagining better:
Bethany’s vision to change the world through family
Activating your church to champion families:
Closet of Hope
But whoever has the world’s goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him? Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. - 1 John 3:26-18
Frequently asked questions
What is Bethany’s Tax ID Number?
The Internal Revenue Service recognizes Bethany Christian Services as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our Federal Tax ID Number (38-1405282)
How can I let my advisor know that I’d like to give to Bethany?
If you wish to include Bethany Christian Services in your estate plans, you will want to use our proper, legal name.
Suggested sample bequest language to your personal attorney would be:
I give to Bethany Christian Services, a nonprofit ministry with principal offices at 901 Eastern Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49501, the sum of (% or $) of the residue of my estate. I desire that these funds be used for (its general purposes or for the specific purpose of __________). If, in its opinion, this specific purpose no longer exists, I authorize Bethany Christian Services to use these funds for a similar purpose.
What are the benefits of planned giving?
Planned giving provides significant benefits, including potential tax savings, income security during retirement, and the ability to leave a legacy that reflects your values. It also offers an opportunity to strengthen your faith by aligning your financial decisions with causes close to your heart, empowering future generations to thrive.
Are there tax advantages to planned giving?
Yes. Planned giving often provides significant tax benefits. Options like qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) from retirement accounts, stock gifts, and donor-advised funds can reduce your taxable income while enabling you to maximize the impact of your contributions.
Who can I contact for guidance?
Bethany’s planned giving team is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us at giftplanning@bethany.org or (800)238-4269 for personalized assistance in crafting a plan that reflects your values and maximizes your impact.
Can I involve my family in my giving plan?
Involving your family in your giving ensures your values are passed on to the next generation. Options like donor-advised funds or structured family giving conversations allow you to engage loved ones in meaningful discussions about generosity, faith, and creating a shared legacy.
What is a donor-advised fund? How can I use it?
A donor-advised fund (DAF) is a charitable giving account that lets you contribute assets, grow them tax-free, and recommend grants to Bethany or other charities over time. Managed by organizations like the National Christian Foundation, a DAF simplifies your giving while creating opportunities to involve your family in the process.
What programs does my planned gift support?
Your planned gift supports Bethany’s life-changing work, including adoption, foster care, refugee support, and family preservation. By including Bethany in your legacy, you help ensure these programs continue to transform lives and strengthen families.
How secure is my planned gift?
Your planned gift is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Bethany is committed to financial transparency and accountability, ensuring your contributions are used as intended to create lasting change for children and families. Your trust is central to everything we do.
How can I use life insurance as a gift?
Life insurance is a flexible and impactful way to give. You can name Bethany as a beneficiary or transfer ownership of a policy you no longer need. This allows you to turn an existing asset into a gift that provides hope and care for vulnerable children and families.
How does a charitable gift annuity (CGA) work?
A CGA is a giving option that allows you to receive fixed income for life while supporting Bethany’s mission after your passing. By funding a CGA with cash, stocks, or other assets, you can enjoy consistent income, potential tax savings, and the satisfaction of making a meaningful impact for generations to come.
Need more personalized help?
Contact a Bethany gift planning specialist via phone (800)238-4269 or email giftplanning@bethany.org
