Traditionally, many persons who might wish to make a gift to support ASCE have assumed that the only possible gift is one made outright through a gift of cash, appreciated securities, or property to the ASCE Foundation. Although the Foundation welcomes and encourages outright gifts, in some instances, a potential donor may find he or she can make a more appropriate or substantial gift through what is known as a planned gift.

The ASCE Foundation's guide to Making a Planned Gift -- Leave a Legacy to Civil Engineering considers a few of the more popular vehicles for making a planned gift--gifts that are not given outright. Planned gifts can be made during your lifetime or through your will. They may consist of cash, securities, personal property or real estate. There are even ways to give something to the Foundation--real estate, for instance--yet still retain the right to use it.

Because of the intricacies of our tax laws, the method of giving can affect the benefits both you and the ASCE Foundation will receive. This is because the laws actually favor charitable giving, by providing for substantial tax benefits. In essence, you are rewarded for making a gift in support of the Society's programs.

For example, if you make a cash gift of $10,000, you are entitled to an income tax charitable deduction, which results in an income tax savings of up to $3,100, if you are in a 31 percent tax bracket. Some gift mechanisms also reduce gift and estate taxes.

As the various gift opportunities are presented, examples of how the tax laws can influence each one are included. Although the individuals mentioned in the examples are fictitious, the figures shown are indicative of the tax savings you might realize when you incorporate planned giving into your financial plan.

When reviewing or revising your overall estate, you might want to consider a charitable gift. Sound planning can provide financial security for your family as well as ensure the continuation of ASCE and its programs.

In addition, you may wish to consider a commemorative opportunity. Commemorative opportunities are often called "naming opportunities," because in return for certain levels of gifts, you may place your name or that of a family member or loved one on such items as rooms or programs. The Foundation staff will be happy to discuss commemorative opportunities with you.

One of the most important forms of recognition comes when you decide to include the ASCE Foundation as part of your estate planning. By providing for ASCE in your will, living trust, life insurance policy, retirement plan, or similar commitment, you are eligible to become a member of Th e Civil Engineering Legacy Society. As a member of the Society you will receive a certificate of membership and will be listed in the Foundation's newsletter, in ASCE News.

To order a copy of Making a Planned Gift -- Leaving a Legacy to Civil Engineering or if you have questions about making a planned gift to the ASCE Foundation, please contact:

Jeanne G. Jacob, CFRE
Executive Vice President
ASCE Foundation
1801 Alexander Bell Drive
Reston, Virginia 20191-4400.

Phone: 703-295-6342
Fax: 703-295-6343
E-mail: ascefoundation@asce.org

Thank you for considering a gift to support civil engineering.

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