The new tax legislation for 2018 is changing the way nonprofits approach their charity fundraising events and auction item selections.
But first, let’s remember the core principle that has never changed in charity fundraising:
Individuals pave the way for change.
Studies show that “More than 7 in 10 dollars given to charity last year came from individuals and households.”
It is through the individual and the household that change comes. It’s always been the case.
The good news is this: the givers aren’t going to change too drastically in the projected forecast for 2018.
What may be changing is the way in which nonprofits interact with their donors.
There is a potential rise in interest towards vacation and experience-oriented packages this year.
Here’s why:
New tax reform for 2018 plans on doubling the standard deduction, from $12,700 to $24,000 for married couples.
According to an article by the Washington Post, “By shielding the first $24,000 of household income from taxes, it would also dramatically reduce the number of American families who itemize deductions for breaks on . . . charitable deductions.”
The article goes on to site Una Osili, a professor of economics and associate dean for research and international programs at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, who believes that doubling the standard deduction will limit many middle-income families (roughly 30 million households) from “itemizing their deductions on their taxes.”
“For those people” she said, “their charitable giving will effectively be taxed.”
What’s the bottom line?
Osili’s and other analyst’s predication is that there will be a $13 billion drop in charitable giving in the year of 2018.
This information, while unpleasant, is something that is going to change the way nonprofits will navigate this coming year.
While the incentive is being lowered for middle class families to give, the tax legislation for 2018 has some positive consequences.
The positive is simply this: the average family will have a larger expendable income.
This expendable income will likely be put back into the economy, raising the GDP, and creating more opportunities for families to spend more money on travel and leisure.
So what are nonprofits to do?
Why not utilize the desire for travel and leisure through VIP Experiences and Vacation Packages at your next fundraiser?
Hosting more fundraisers with auction items is the perfect avenue this coming year to utilize expendable income for your cause.
Let your donors experience and travel while simultaneously being able to help you make a difference!
Experiences, Getaways, Memorabilia – it’s a win-win for both you and your donors.
Take a look through our portfolio of 300+ options that you can showcase with zero-risk to your organization!
We ship the items to you free of charge, and if they don’t sell, we pay to have them shipped back to us. It’s that easy!
Maybe your donors would like…
A signed poster, sheet music, drumhead, or record album of your favorite band or music artist, coupled with a VIP experience at the American Music Awards in Los Angeles.
Or…
An Autographed NFL Team Legends Helmet from local team and tickets to a Super Bowl at the 50 yard line.
Or…
A Masters flag signed by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus and the chance to spend a week playing on the golf greens of Ireland suits your audience more!
Or…
Family Trips, Weekend Getaways to nature or to the city – the options and ideas are many and diverse!
Make your next charity auction fundraising exciting with bucket-list travel packages and autographed memorabilia.
Contact Charity fundraising today to register for your desired auction item.
