As the calendar year comes to a close, many nonprofit organizations are preparing for year-end giving. But what exactly is year-end giving? This crucial time for nonprofits refers to late November and goes through Dec. 31. According to BetterWorld, a digital fundraising platform, over 30% of giving happens in December, and 10% of all annual donations roll in during the final three days of the year. 

So, why are nonprofits focusing on this time of year to secure a large chunk of annual revenue? The answer is simple — the holiday spirit. This time of year tends to inspire a spirit of giving, and people are more inclined to support causes they care about as part of their holiday tradition or reflection of values during the season. 

Themes of togetherness, compassion, spirituality, and gratitude make the holiday season a meaningful and cherished time for people across many cultures. Religious holidays including Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa emphasize giving back and helping others.

If you are considering a year-end donation to the American Legion Auxiliary, here are a few things to note:

1. If you plan to send checks via postal mail or carriers such as FedEx, UPS, or DHL, they must be postmarked on or before Dec. 31, 2024.
2. Credit card gifts can be made by phone (317-569-4500) or online until Dec. 31, 2024.
3. If you’re planning to donate gifts of appreciated stock or securities, it’s recommended that you initiate the transfer by Dec. 20, 2024.
4. Older adults can donate directly from their IRAs, which can count as a required minimum distribution, offering tax advantages while benefiting a cause they care about.
5. Many companies offer matching gift programs during the holidays. This means they match their employees’ donations to nonprofits so donors can double their impact. 

Year-end giving presents an opportunity for donors to end the year knowing their financial gift is going to support their favorite organization’s work in the year to come. As 2024 draws to a close, nonprofits and donors come together, driven by a shared vision of creating a world full of goodness. And that, perhaps, is the greatest gift of the holiday season.