Major gifts can come in many different forms, but the types that are most frequently seen are outright gifts, endowments, commemorative/memorial gifts, capital project gifts, and gifts-in-kind.
Outright gifts include gifts of cash, securities, real estate, retirement assets, and life insurance policies. Funds are immediately available to support Illinois State University and your gift is tax deductible in the year it is made.
An endowment is a sum of money that is invested in order to fund a particular project, such as a student scholarship. The initial investment, called the principal, is intended to continue in perpetuity, with the investment income from the principal providing ongoing funding. To endow a fund at Illinois State University, a donor must agree to provide a principal of at least $20,000 within 5 years and sign guidelines indicating how the earnings on the principal will be used.
The Illinois State University Foundation accepts gifts which recognize the impact a loved one, friend, or colleague has made on your life. These gifts may be given during their lifetime or to leave a legacy.
Modern and innovative facilities are required to attract and retain the best and brightest students. You directly impact the quality of a student’s experience at Illinois State University by helping to construct new buildings or by renovating existing structures.
Gifts-in-kind, sometimes referred to as noncash gifts, are of substantial value to Illinois State University. Tangible items donated to the university can greatly enhance its mission without direct cost to the university. Gifts of this type may include computer hardware and software, real estate, specialized equipment, books, artwork, office furniture, etc.
Allow us to help you make your gift by contacting majorgifts@IllinoisState.edu.
