The most common donations are financial gifts, such as cash or a check, which the Washington County Hospital receives immediately. These can include a gift in memory of a loved one or to honor a special person. In some circumstances, gifts-in-kind also are donated, whether they be toys for children with special healthcare needs or services rendered with no charge.

But many times, people want to hold on to their money and other assets for now, just to be sure they can meet their family's future financial needs. These people are usually delighted to learn that we have excellent alternatives that allow them to make a gift. One of these options could be right for you. These gifts are known as "planned" gifts. They can be revocable - a charitable bequest in your will, for example - so that you can change your mind at any time.

Planned gifts also can be irrevocable (just as outright gifts are), so that you benefit from an immediate income tax deduction. The attraction of irrevocable planned gifts is that they are deferred. You part with an asset today, but the actual giving of the asset to the Washington County Hospital is put off for a while - often until after your lifetime (and that of a surviving beneficiary, if you wish). During the time in between, you receive benefits from the gift.

The key feature of planned gifts like these is that they allow you, the donor, to benefit as well as the Hospital.

We are here to answer any questions you might have about planned giving. We can examine your particular situation and, together with your attorney and/or your financial advisors, help you find ways to support our mission while, at the same time, assuring your family's financial security.

Please call Antietam Healthcare Foundation for more information at 301-790-8690 or choose from the options listed on the sidebar.