Ways of Giving
The Development Office was established to seek funding for the Sisters' ministries and to develop relationships with their partners and donors. All gifts are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. As required by the Internal Revenue Service, the Sisters retain full authority over the assets given to them. Because we are a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation, we gratefully accept gifts in many forms. Your thoughtfulness and generosity are most appreciated!
Cash Contribution
Cash gifts, regardless of size, are appreciated and help the Sisters fulfill their mission. If you would like, you can use the fast and convenient way of donating by clicking this link Donate Now and mailing the form provided. You can also call or meet with Geraldine Guzaitis, Director of Development, to present your gift. You can reach her at 815-464-3882 or send an e-mail to her with any questions you may have at Geraldine.Guzaitis@fssh.com.
Securities
By contributing long-term, appreciated stock, bonds or mutual funds, significant tax benefits can be realized, including a charitable deduction and no capital gains tax. If you would like to discuss your options in more detail, please call Geraldine Guzaitis, Director of Development at 815-464-3882. Geraldine can also be reached by e-mail at Geraldine.Guzaitis@fssh.com.
Planned Giving
A gift made now but given at the time of death or some future event creates a lasting testimony. A donor who has indicated she/he has remembered a Franciscan Sister of the Sacred Heart in her/his will becomes a part of the Franciscan Circle of Friends. Planned gifts may be made in a variety of ways:
•Gifts through your will or estate plan cost nothing today but will benefit the Sisters' future work. A simple sentence can be added to your plan such as:
“I bequeath ($____ or ____%, or specific property or residual) to the Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart.”
•Life insurance is a way to make a substantial gift. The Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart would be the beneficiary on your policy and would receive the proceeds at your death.
•A gift of securities, bonds, IRAs or mutual funds can be designated in your estate plan.
If you would like to learn more or you would like to make a planned gift, you can speak with Geraldine Guzaitis, the Director of Development, at 815-464-3882 or send an e-mail with your contact information to Geraldine at Geraldine.Guzaitis@fssh.net. She will speak with you personally and confidentially about this way of giving to the Sisters.
Memorial / Tribute Gift
A gift to the Sisters can be a fitting way to honor the memory or success of a loved one or to mark a milestone in life. When the tribute is made, the Development Office will notify the family of your kind act without disclosing the amount of your donation. You can speak personally and confidentially with Geraldine Guzaitis, Director of Development about how you would like your loved one remembered or honored. She can be reached at 815-464-3882, or send your contact information in an e-mail to Geraldine at Geraldine.Guzaitis@fssh.net and she will get right back to you.
Personalized Gift
Choose one of these thoughtful gifts based upon your level of giving and have it personalized: Memorial Plaque; Deluxe Bench; Living Tree; Pavers for Peace. You can speak personally with Geraldine Guzaitis, Director of Development about how you would like your loved one remembered. She can be reached at 815-464-3882, or send your contact information in an e-mail to Geraldine at Geraldine.Guzaitis@fssh.com and she will get right back to you.