The Endow Iowa Tax Credit Program is expanding the impact people can have in improving their local communities through charitable giving. Under modifications to the program, which went into effect Jan. 1, 2010, those who give to a qualified Iowa community foundation, including Howard County Community Foundation as an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, will be eligible to receive 25 percent tax credits for their gifts, up from the 20 percent credits previously offered. Approximately $4 million in tax credits, an increase from the previous $3 million, will be available annually. With the increased tax credits, Iowa community foundations will have the potential to generate about $16 million annually in endowed gifts through Endow Iowa alone. The community foundations and their donors will be better able to support efforts in the arts, education, environment, health, human services and community development in communities across the state.
    “There’s never been a better or more vital time for an opportunity like this,” said Wayne Kerian, Howard County Community Foundation Committee Chair. “We know that in tough economic times, it becomes more difficult for people to give to charitable causes. At the same time, the need for charitable giving is growing. With Endow Iowa, generous Iowans are rewarded for giving, while communities are able to continue the good work of making life better for residents.”
    The Endow Iowa Tax Credit Program was established in 2003 to encourage individuals, businesses and organizations to make lasting investments in their communities. Those who give will be able to take advantage of the increased Endow Iowa tax credits in conjunction with federal tax benefits for charitable gifts. Endow Iowa tax credits are offered on a first come, first served basis.
    “With this tax credit program, Iowa is at the forefront in creating solutions that make charitable giving easier, more rewarding and more effective,” said Angela Dethlefs-Trettin, director of Iowa Council of Foundations. “We’re excited by how donors are responding to the program. It provides a powerful tool for people across the state to strengthen their local communities and also benefit from the tax incentives.”
    Since the start of Endow Iowa, donors have given more than $50 million to community foundations across the state through the program alone. To date, Howard County Community Foundation has grown its total assets to over $228,000. Donations have been used to support hundreds of non-profit organizations’ charitable projects and programs in Howard County.
    The Howard County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, has been created by and for the people of Howard County. The Community Foundation’s main goals are to support charitable projects and programs in Howard County and to attract additional funds to assist donors in creating lasting legacies through a variety of giving options within Howard County.
    For more information, contact the administrative office of the Howard County Community Foundation at 319-287-9106 or visit www.cfneia.org/Howard The organization is now accepting online donations.