Every day there are clear opportunities for positive changes to be created here in Manatee County and beyond. People like you continuously think about how to use your resources to make a difference.

The decision to make a charitable gift is often triggered by an event such as selling an appreciated asset, inheriting money, experiencing a life-changing event, or a receiving a compelling appeal from a nonprofit organization.

Whether it’s a deep desire to help people, animals or special places or a tax-incentive that drives the urge to give–or both–strategizing can help you feel the best about your philanthropy and make the best investment for our community.

As you consider what matters to you most, we love these thought-provoking questions:

1. What opportunity has made a difference in your life that you want others to have or experience?
2. If you had the opportunity to change one person’s life for the better, how would you do it?
3. What one thing can you accomplish this year with your giving? What do you want to accomplish in the future?

August is a good time to check in about your giving to date–and to plan early for year-end–before getting swept away by appeals and your own holiday plans.

Let us know how we can support you, introduce you to an impactful organization working in a space you care about, or partner with your professional advisors on the right charitable giving vehicle for you.

Our philanthropy team is led by Jennifer Abbott, and she is just a short email or call away. You can reach her at JAbbott@ManateeCF.org anytime you wish to talk about the possibilities.