by Katie Brubaker*
There are two teenagers in our family.
When they were toddlers, I read somewhere about a family that set Christmas gift expectations with a little rhyme. My husband and I adopted the idea and added a line about giving. If you ask our kids what’s under the tree, they’ll tell you:
Something you want;
Something you need;
Something to give; and
Something to read.
| In 2021, we used appreciated stock to open a donor-advised fund with Cru Foundation. Instead of handing the kids $20 on Christmas morning and saying, “Go give this away,” we’ve been able to be more intentional with their generosity training. Micah and Hannah will each get an amount in our donor-advised fund to give away — something substantial to a teenager. Last year, the discussion with our son about where to give lasted three months. Hannah took six months and many rounds of changing her mind until two missionaries visited our church one Sunday morning. Decision made. That process allowed for unhurried, prayerful decision-making and rich family discussion. In a year or two we’re planning on giving them their own donor-advised funds so they can continue the rhythm of funding and giving as they start their own, independent financial lives. There’s a lot we don’t get right in our parenting, but it’s hard to go wrong with helping them find joy in kingdom-focused generosity — plus it’s fun! Merry Christmas, |
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 *Katie Brubaker, J.D. Senior Gift & Estate Design Specialist | Cru Foundation |
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A Donor Advised Fund (DAF) is today’s foundation alternative for anyone who has appreciated assets and/or a higher income year, incurring taxes [and need to reduce] and want to wait and decide where God may be bel leading them to give. It has all the benefits and almost none of the administration and expenses that comes with a private foundation.
Consider Cru Foundation’s DAF as one that will reflect your same spiritual values. To learn more go to: https://www.crufoundation.org/donor-advised-funds/
*Katie is a colleague and friend.
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