Suzy is a firm believer in siblings, natural, step, adopted, half, whatever works for your family.  So this week we are bringing you just a few ways that you can help support Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Rockland County.  These volunteers donate thier time and energy to make sure that all kids, big and small have the opportunity of someone to lean on, trust and have fun with.  Please consider one of these ways to help....

Cars for Kids' Sake
What do you do with that unwanted car that's been sitting in your driveway? Turn it into funds to help kids in your community.   Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rockland County's Cars For Kid's Sake (CFKS) program is an innovative new fundraiser which allows vehicle owners to donate unwanted cars and receive a possible tax deduction in return.

The donation process is simple and hassle free. Dial 1-800-710-9145 and a CFKS representative will arrange to pick-up your vehicle. The donation of cars, trucks, boats, and motorcycles qualifies as a charitable gift and the donor may be eligible for a tax deduction.

CFKS is a win-win experience for all parties.   In addition to a possible tax deduction, you will be supporting a worthwhile community youth organization.   Your contribution will allow Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rockland County to impact the lives of more at-risk children.

How vehicle donation works:

You may donate either online, or by calling: 800-710-9145.

Your vehicle must be whole (no missing engine, suspension, etc).

The vehicle does not have to be running, but you will be asked to explain the condition of the vehicle and disclose any structural damage to help in scheduling your free pick-up. You will be asked your vehicle's make, model, vehicle identification number (VIN#) and current mileage.   Your vehicle must have a clear title in your name if required by your home state. More information on title requirements can be found on www.auto-donation.com. If you cannot locate your title, call 800-710-9145 and we will be happy to assist you in acquiring a new one.

If you call in your car donation, our representative will mail you a packet with a self-addressed envelope in which to mail back the signed title to your used car donation, an odometer statement giving the exact mileage on your vehicle, and other pertinent information to assist in better serving you.

Once we receive your completed car donation packet, we will contact you to schedule your free tow. We will also provide you with all the pertinent tax documentation required for a deduction after the completion of the process.

The Benefits of Vehicle Donation:

You can donate automobiles, trucks, sports utilities, motor homes, boats, airplanes, farm, construction equipment, etc.   You may now qualify for a tax deduction. For more information please visit www.irs.gov keyword: vehicle donation.   Avoid all the hassles associated with selling or disposing of a used vehicle.  Get free pick-up whether or not your vehicle is running.   Our program is fast and easy, and protects you from the liability of transferring your automobile while providing the best value to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rockland County.

Charity Boxes
Look for our charity boxes located in your local deli, bank, pharmacy, etc. and think of us when you think of change. If you can help by allowing us to put a charity box in your place of business, please give us a call!

Give a Gift of Appreciated Stocks
A gift of appreciated stock, which you have held for one year or more, is a great way to maximize your tax deduction for the year.

Leave a Legacy
Leave a Legacy is a cooperative effort of Rockland County 's nonprofit community, estate planning professionals, corporations, businesses and civic groups who are dedicated to raising the awareness of planned giving.   Its purpose is to educate and promote charitable giving through a Will, lifetime gift or other giving opportunities.

Leave a Legacy/Rockland County encourages people from all walks of life to make planned gifts to nonprofit organizations of their choice. By leaving a legacy you will help ensure that the good work of a nonprofit will continue well into the future.

Ten things you can do today to Leave a Legacy:

- Talk with an attorney, financial planner, accountant, banker or insurance agent to learn ways to leave a bequest or gift to charity.
- Speak with a charity that has made a difference in your life.  Many organizations have specific gift plans.
- Prepare a Last Will and Testament.  Without a Will, you will lose the opportunity to decide who receives your assets.  With a Will, you can specify a dollar amount, a percentage of your assets, or a specific asset such as stock or real estate to charity.
- Consider making a gift of stocks, bonds, certificates of deposit, real estate, or jewelry rather than cash.  These gifts can offer tax savings.
- Name a charity as beneficiary of an IRA, 401K, Keogh or other pension plans you may have.
- Name a charity as beneficiary of a life insurance policy.
- Receive payments during your lifetime from a gift you make to a charity today.  You may be able to increase your income and realize tax savings.
- Remember loved ones with memorial gifts to your favorite charity.
- Discuss your plans with close family members so then can support your decision.
- Consider establishing a family foundation, donor-advised fund or charitable trust if your assets are substantial.

Please contact Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rockland County at 845-634-2199
if you would like to receive more information about any of these giving opportunities.