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Why do people like making planned gifts?

Planned gifts (most commonly a donation made in your will or trust) cost nothing today and allow you to make an incredible impact, which is why so many people choose to make them.

There are some other exciting but less common gifts — scroll down to learn more!

Popular gifts for the future

See what types of gifts many people choose to make. Many people make these to honor a loved one, to show what’s important in their life.

Popular

Gifts in a will or trust

Donations in your will or trust are the most popular type of planned gift. Learn more, or get help starting your will or trust – for free!

Learn more

Beneficiary designations

Gifting assets not covered by your will — like 401(k) or IRA accounts — may help your heirs avoid unwanted taxes, even if you’re below the estate tax threshold.

Learn more

Popular gifts for today

Many people love these donation options because they fit with their personal circumstances and financial goals.

Charitable Trusts

A charitable remainder trust or charitable lead trust offers a remarkable opportunity to support Soka while safeguarding your loved ones, both now and in the future.

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Stocks and securities

Many people love donating stock or mutual funds because it may help them avoid paying capital gains taxes.

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Donor Advised Funds

Easily recommend grants to Soka University of America for tax-efficient giving.

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Cryptocurrency

Donate Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more to save on taxes and make a big impact.

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Qualified Charitable Distributions

Use your IRA to make tax-free gifts that benefit you and our mission.

Learn more

Please let us know if you’ve already included us in your estate plans!

Letting us know is incredibly helpful to our team and helps to make sure your gift is used the way you want it to be.

Support Our Mission

Your generous gifts enable us to equip citizens of the world with the tools they need to pursue purposeful lives seeking peace as a solution to all they encounter.

We are in urgent need of leaders who embrace peace and uphold the value of human dignity. The essence of a Soka education lies in nurturing individuals of strong character who actively contribute to and enhance society, ultimately working towards a peaceful world. It is for this reason that we support Soka University. Our goal is to help cultivate exemplary young individuals who will contribute to the creation of a harmonious society, demonstrating profound respect for every individual as a human being.

Bruce and Joan

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Gifts of any size are deeply appreciated. Many people choose to leave a percentage of their estate, which scales up or down with your estate size.

Yes! Knowing in advance about your intentions is quite helpful to our staff, but you are always welcome to not share your gift.

We’ve partnered with FreeWill to help you make a will or trust at no cost to you. You can use this to complete your plans, or you may choose to use the same tools to get your affairs in order before visiting an attorney (who is likely to have a fee associated with finalizing your plans).

Yes. You are always free to revise or update your estate plans.

Yes! FreeWill will never share your personal information without your permission.

Make your will today

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We’re here to help you meet your goals!

Our team would be happy to speak with you in confidence about your giving goals, with no obligation.

Name: Linda Kennedy

Title :Executive Director of Philanthropy

Phone: 949-480-4072

Email: lkennedy@soka.edu

Already included us in your estate plan? Let us know

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