Specific
Needs

Your contribution not only provides a tax-free benefit to you but helps to meet the challenge to preserve and maintain the Opera House. Built in 1889 built, this “Jewel of the Square” in Woodstock often needs technology related upgrades as the need to stay current is crucial. As a result of such a need, the Friends assisted in the purchase of an LED screen (11’4’’ wide by 23’4’’long). This is just one of the many ways the Friends are called upon to keep the Opera House a must-see for our community and its visitors. Whether a one-time gift or a recurring donation, your help is greatly appreciated and provides support for this historic building and the cultural enrichment it offers to all who come and enjoy our city. (Friends of the Opera House is a 501(c)(3) organization)

Mail / To give by mail, send a check made out to the Friends of the Opera House and mail it to: 121 W Van Buren Street, Woodstock, IL 60098.

Matching Gifts / Many employers sponsor matching gift programs and will match charitable contributions made by their employees. To find out if your company has a matching gift policy along with eligibility requirements, procedures, and forms, please check with your human resource department or company intranet.

IRA Charitable Distributions /

Reduce your taxes through an IRA Charitable Distribution

If you are over the age of 70 ½ you may give a gift from your IRA as a tax-free distribution to a qualified non-profit organization. This means an amount (up to $105,000 annually) transferred to a 501 (c) 3 non-profit like the Friends of the Opera House can count toward your required minimum distribution without being considered taxable income for you. The deduction then lowers your adjusted gross income (AGI). The distribution, also known as an IRA Charitable Rollover, is authorized by Section 408(c)(8) of the Internal Revenue Code.

As a qualified charitable IRA rollover, the gift must be transferred from a traditional IRA directly to a qualified 501 (c) 3 organization like the Friends of the Opera House and must be completed during the applicable tax year.

Benefits

• Because you, as the donor, do not receive the funds at any point in the transfer, the distribution amount is not included in your gross income.
• The gift can satisfy your required minimum distribution (check with your financial advisor)
• Satisfaction in knowing you are supporting a beloved Woodstock landmark that enables all citizens to have access to the arts

Through thoughtful estate planning, you can ensure that the important people and favorite causes in your life receive what you intend after you’re gone. Contact us today about including the Friends of the Opera House in your estate giving plans.