Some of the most common ways to make a gift to Shanti Bhavan are to write a check, make a gift using a credit card, or donate online.

A gift of cash could be right for you if:

  • You want the easiest way to donate to Shanti Bhavan.
  • You want the largest possible income tax charitable deduction for your gift.
  • You would like to make the gift to Shanti Bhavan that has the greatest immediate impact.

How It Works

You make a gift of cash directly to Shanti Bhavan and you receive an immediate income tax charitable deduction.

 

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What is an outright gift of cash?

An outright gift of cash is when you transfer funds to Shanti Bhavan and get nothing of financial value in return. The most common way for donors to make an outright gift is to write a check payable to Shanti Bhavan.

Gift provides immediate support

Unlike some other gift arrangements, your outright gift will provide resources that Shanti Bhavan can put to immediate use. If you prefer to restrict our use of your gift in any way, please contact us so that we can be sure that we can carry out your wishes.

Maximum tax savings

You may deduct the full amount of your donation up to 60% of your adjusted gross income, after your total itemized deductions for the year exceed 0.5% of your Adjusted Gross Income. If you cannot deduct the full value of your contribution, you may carry forward your unused charitable deductions for up to five additional years.

Ways to give cash

Most donors make an outright gift by writing a check payable to Shanti Bhavan and mailing it to us. You may also make a cash gift using your credit card.

Example

Madeline Preston would like to make an immediate $15,000 gift to Shanti Bhavan. Madeline could write a check for this amount and earn a charitable deduction equal to $15,000. Alternatively, Madeline could make a gift using her credit card by calling us on the phone, responding to a mailing, or by donating online through our website. Gifts of checks and gifts made via credit cards are considered cash gifts.

Benefits

  • Madeline may deduct up to 60% of her adjusted gross income for her gift of cash, providing tax savings if she itemizes.
  • If Madeline itemizes deductions but cannot use the entire deduction in the year of gift, she may carry the balance forward for up to five additional years.
  • Assuming Madeline itemizes deductions and can use her entire income tax charitable deduction of $15,000, she will save her $5,250 (35% tax).
  • Madeline will gain the satisfaction of making a $15,000 gift to Shanti Bhavan.

 

How Your Gift Helps

Shanti Bhavan follows a long-term model designed to guide students from early childhood through university and into professional life; providing the consistency and mentorship needed to break the cycle of poverty permanently. Planned gifts play an important role in sustaining this work, they help provide:

  • A safe, nurturing home for generations to come. Children from India's most marginalized communities join Shanti Bhavan at age four and grow up in a stable, loving residential campus. 
  • Every essential, every day. Nutritious meals, clothing, and consistent healthcare are fully provided, so children can focus on learning, playing, and growing.
  • A world-class education that changes a family's future. Students get a rigorous English-medium education along with arts, sports, and leadership training, taught by educators who believe in each child's potential.
  • Support that continues beyond graduation. Shanti Bhavan funds college and helps each graduate launch a career. Many graduates then support their families and give back to their communities, which breaks the cycle of generational poverty.