Blog

Experience the joy of giving

By Jake Seifert

As we approach the season of gratitude and reflection, we invite you to not only give but to feel connected to the profound work of Catholic Charities of Central and Northern Missouri.

Our mission to “provide care and create hope” across 38 counties is made possible because of you — our dedicated benefactors and volunteers.

Your support is not just a donation; it’s a commitment to uplifting our neighbors and continuing a legacy of compassion that started over a decade ago.

The spiritual gift of giving 

The act of giving is a beautiful reflection of our faith.

Throughout Scripture, we are encouraged to be generous, to share our blessings, and to serve others with a joyful heart:

“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” — 2 Corinthians 9:7 

“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” — Proverbs 19:17 

These verses remind us that when we give freely, we not only help those in need but also receive spiritual blessings in return.

Your support of Catholic Charities allows us to continue providing essential services and life-changing programs for the most vulnerable in our communities, embodying the love and compassion Christ calls us to show. 

Why year-end giving is so important

Did you know that nearly one-third of all charitable giving happens in December?

This time of year is marked by reflection, gratitude, and a desire to make a difference.

Many benefactors are motivated by the approaching tax deadlines, but there is something even deeper at play — the joy of sharing our blessings during a season of thanksgiving.

Maximizing your year-end gift: Giving from the heart

This year, we invite you to consider a few impactful ways to make your year-end gift and align your financial planning with your charitable intentions.

Here are some options that can make a meaningful impact:

• Gifting appreciated assets — One of the most tax-efficient ways to give is by donating appreciated assets like stocks or mutual funds that you’ve held for more than a year.

By donating these assets, you avoid paying capital gains taxes and can potentially receive a charitable deduction for the full value of the asset.

This means you can amplify your impact while maximizing the tax benefits of your gift.

Remember, the transfer must be completed before December 31 to qualify for the 2024 tax year. 

• Giving from your retirement accounts — Depending on your age, you can make a tax-free gift directly from your IRA through a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD).

This allows you to satisfy your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) while making a meaningful donation to Catholic Charities, free of income taxes.

This is a beautiful way to reduce your taxable income while supporting the mission you believe in.

• Immediate giving: Check or online donations — Direct gifts are the simplest way to contribute, whether by check or online.

Every dollar you give directly empowers life-changing services that uplift individuals and families, providing critical support, hope, and stability throughout our diocese.

Your generosity drives transformative impact, creating stronger communities and brighter futures for those in need.

• Planning for the future: Estate giving — If you cannot give a significant gift right now, consider including Catholic Charities in your estate plans.

Naming us as a beneficiary of your will, trust, or retirement account is a lasting way to extend your generosity beyond your lifetime.

It is an ultimate act of stewardship and ensures that your faith-driven legacy will continue to serve others for years.

Your gift, your impact

When you support Catholic Charities, you become part of a community united by faith, dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of our neighbors.

Every gift, no matter its size, contributes to vital services that bring relief, comfort, and lasting change to those facing hardship.

As you reflect on the blessings of the year, we invite you to join us in this mission of service.

Your year-end gift is a heartfelt expression of your faith, spreading hope and healing to those who need it most.

To learn more or to make your gift today, visit our website at cccnmo.diojeffcity.org.

Thank you for your generosity, prayers, and unwavering commitment to our shared mission.

May God bless you abundantly this holiday season.