Hastings St. Cecilia Blue Hawks

The Hastings Catholic Schools Development Office primary mission is to encourage institutional advancement through Planned Giving; specifically, through the St. Cecilia High School Endowment and the Hastings Catholic Schools Trust. Its secondary purpose is to help ensure the adequate funding for St. Cecilia's Church and St. Michael's Church.

TYPES OF GIFTS

This information is intended to plant a seed in the minds of those interested to include our school system in their future financial planning.
Planned Giving does not have to hurt. Sizable gifts can be given by most of us. Following the well being of a spouse, children, grandchildren and friends, we ask that you also consider the St. Cecilia High School Endowment or Hastings Catholic Schools Trust in your estate plans. Thank you for your past gifts and present considerations.

Planning for Your Future

Estate Plan
* Each of us should take the time to sit down and adequately plan the direction we wish to see our resources flow upon our death. Over the years, one normally sees a gradual increase of assets, possessions and overall worth. In order to properly dispense of these items, a Will or other legal document is a necessity. Only by such a plan will your desires be carried out.

Legal Representative
* The person who is best prepared to adequately carry out your wishes is a reputable attorney. He/she has the knowledge, expertise and language available to form a proper document. In addition, attorneys can help reduce estate taxes and other charges.

Alternates/Updates
* Planning for your future, it is wise to name an alternate to handle your financial matters. No one knows what the future holds for you or your immediate executor. If you have not named an alternate, courts sometimes appoint one on your behalf, one that you may not have selected. Updates are needed to keep things current.

Memorials/Gifts/Bequests
* During your life there may have been someone, someplace or something that has provided your life with a degree of comfort, a sense of well-being. Your previous support will be missed by these persons/organizations. By giving to their needs and causes, you are declaring their worth, your appreciation and securing their place in the future. As you are missed by family and friends, you are likewise missed by these organizations. Their longevity depends on your generosity.

Percentage
* Unaware of your final net worth at death, it is sometimes difficult to dispense of property assets or cash. By designating a percentage of the total estate, all wishes can be met. Your tax advisor may be able to demonstrate how to reduce taxes by gifting to the Endowment or Trust in your Will

Gifting Real Estate
* By gifting Real Estate one receives the total value of the asset as a tax deduction. Selling fees are avoided as well as the headaches associated with selling such an asset. In cases where a Basis becomes a factor, this problem too is eliminated. It is even possible to continue to occupy the property until a later date with no consequences.

Gifting Stock/Securities
* Gifting stock/securities has become a very popular way to help charitable organizations. Actual cost has traditionally been low while actual value has been high. No taxes are paid on the appreciated portion and credit is received on the entire gifted amount.

Gifting Life Insurance
* Life Insurance provides an opportunity for a person with limited income to give a sizable sum at death. All premiums are tax deductions and most policies pay for themselves in 14-16 years.

Gifting Retirement Plans
* Retirement Plans can be gifted in part or in total by simply utilizing a Change of Beneficiary form. Estates can be altered, taxes avoided and deductions taken as a result of this one simple form. Your wishes can be met, partially or entirely, as you choose. Appreciated earnings are negated on any gifted portion.

Trusts
*Trusts (Charitable Remainder/Charitable Lead) are vehicles for divesting/diverting one's assets to family, friends and charitable causes. Taxes are avoided, estates are altered, deductions allowed and your property maintained. Your wishes can be regulated through the proper use of a Trust. Consult qualified professionals when considering a Trust.


	DEVELOPMENT OFFICE