Here’s a confession you probably didn’t expect from me today: I don’t really understand the concept of “spring cleaning.” Winter is a little intense where I live, so when it finally turns to spring, no one has time for cleaning. We all just go OUTSIDE and breathe deeply in gratitude for the end of our annual hibernation.
The season I actually associate most closely with cleaning is winter — specifically, the holiday season. It takes a lot to get ready for that one important gathering of family and friends.
Each year, on the eve of the big event, I enjoy a brief private moment of satisfaction. That moment comes as I head upstairs to bed when I take a moment to look over the clean house that I’ve prepared for the guests that will arrive the next day. In that moment, I consider the weeks of preparation that have led up to this — the planning, shopping, organizing, inviting, cooking and the cleaning, cleaning, cleaning! I know that the next day I will be able to relax and enjoy the company of loved ones because I took the time to get everything ready ahead of time. I smile, then I turn out the light and walk upstairs.
Everyone is preparing for something. And while you might be preparing for holiday gatherings like me, or preparing to hit your goal at work or go on a trip, I know that we one important thing in common. We are both doing what we can to improve the lives of children all over the world.
You made the world a better place last year. So, before we turn the calendar page, here are some ideas for how you can maximize your impact this year — and save money while you’re at it.
1. Make a gift of stock: If you are considering making a year-end gift to Plan and have appreciated shares of stock in your portfolio, learn how you can make the impact you want to make and pay less in taxes!
2. Take advantage of a charitable IRA rollover: If you are over age 70½, a Charitable IRA Rollover will save you money on taxes. Don’t wait until the last minute, though! These gifts take time!
3. Make child sponsorship your legacy: You already know that child sponsorship changes the life of a child and their entire community. Make your sponsorship last forever with an Endowed Sponsorship, or join with other sponsors to make sure sponsorship is available to children generation after generation with a gift to the Endowed Sponsorship Fund. You can learn more or start your sponsorship legacy today!
4. Give the gift of hope: There’s still time to give a Gift of Hope this season! You can find your new favorite in this year’s catalog.
Whatever your plan is to make the world a better place, let us know about it! Share your gift on social media and encourage others to join you!
