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Gifts of Stocks and Funds

Why make a gift of stocks or mutual funds?

Our school’s community appreciates making gifts that benefit Stepping Stones and have the greatest impact on the school’s mission. When a donor donates stock or mutual fund shares to Stepping Stones, the donor receives a tax deduction for the full amount of the asset on the date of transfer. Even better, that transfer does not recognize capital gains.

This means that the donor could potentially avoid tax of up to 20% on the appreciation associated with those assets. Capital gains tax rates vary depending on your taxable income, and donors should consider their own financial situation and consult their financial advisor before making a gift of stocks or mutual funds.

How do i make a gift of stocks or mutual funds to stepping stones?

There are two ways to transfer stocks and mutual funds. The first is an electronic transfer. With an electronic transfer, assets are transferred directly to an account held by a custodian for Stepping Stones. If you need electronic transfer instructions, please contact Elizabeth Topliffe at 616-451-8627 or elizabeth@steppingstonesgr.org.

The second way to transfer stocks is through the transfer of actual stock certificates. In order to transfer certificates, the owner completes a stock or bond power and has that form medallion guaranteed. The form and the certificate are then given to Stepping Stones. Donors should not endorse certificates.

What will stepping stones do with my stock?

Stepping Stones will liquidate gifts of stocks and mutual funds in order to fulfill its fiduciary obligations by avoiding downside risk. The cash proceeds are then used for the benefit of the school, either as an unrestricted gift (where Stepping Stones uses the money for the area of greatest need) or as designated by the donor.