Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I create income with my gift?

  Yes! AJWS has several ways that gifts can pay you income. You can also provide income for a child, a grandchild, a parent, or a friend. That income can increase cash flow now and/or during retirement, pay for a college education, provide income for aging parents, or perhaps assist a loved one with special needs. You can also provide income to our institution by using a charitable lead trust.

• I am unable to make a current gift, but I'd still like to support AJWS in the future. Any ideas?

  An easy and low-cost way to make a gift to AJWS is to include us in your will or revocable trust. Gifts by will are a major source of endowment support for AJWS. Each individual legacy contributes to our financial strength and ability to meet the needs of our mission. If you have not already done so, please consider putting AJWS in your will or revocable trust. See our bequest language page for samples of how to do this. You can also designate AJWS the beneficiary of annuities or retirement-plan benefits.

• What asset should I use to make my gift?

  While cash or a check is a simple way to make a gift, you might want to consider the following:

  Gift Type	Possible Benefits
  Cash	Current income-tax deduction Generate income
  Appreciated securities, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds	Elimination or reduction of capital-gain tax Current income-tax deduction Generate income
  Make AJWS the owner and beneficiary of annuities	Income-tax and estate-tax savings

• How will AJWS recognize my gift?

  With your permission, your name will be listed in our annual report as well as on the planned giving section of our website. If your gift is a bequest commitment or if it is designated through life insurance, life-income plans, or lead trusts, you will become a permanent member of our institution’s Legacy Society. Of course, we will also honor any requests for gifts to be anonymous.

• Why should I consider a gift to AJWS?

  Gifts are made for many different reasons. You might give to AJWS because tzedakah—giving for justice—is an expression of your Jewish values. Or because you want to help people rise out of poverty. Or you believe in women’s equality and protecting the environment. You might give because you believe it’s our responsibility to build a more equitable world for people around the globe.

  Whatever your reasons, your planned gift will affect millions of lives. Visit How Do We Use Your Gifts? to find out more about the programs you'll make possible.

  Often, planned gifts are made because families want to:

  • Honor a loved one.
  • Celebrate a special occasion.
  • Ensure that our institution will remain a vibrant and strong place for future generations seeking to make a difference in our world.

Please contact Elizabeth Briand for more information.