Several months ago, two of our longtime donors, John, age 77, and his wife, Jane, age 76, funded a $100,00 charitable gift annuity for the benefit of the poorest of the poor that guaranteed a rate of 6.7%, or $6,700 guaranteed annually for both of their lives. John and Jane were pleased to learn that $4,475.60 of their annual annuity income would not be subject to federal income tax. They were also happy to know that they would enjoy the benefit of a $31,535 charitable tax deduction for this donation (any unused tax credit may be carried forward for five additional years). Because of these tax benefits, John and Jane realized that their effective rate of return was significantly greater than 6.7%!

      Most importantly, John and Jane were pleased that Cross International Catholic Outreach was able to immediately use $28,779.80 of their gift to complete several food, water, and medical projects that they personally had supported over the years. Giving such a meaningful charitable gift was beyond their wildest dreams! John and Jane were able to experience the tangible results of their gift to Cross International Catholic Outreach while they were still alive, and yet be guaranteed that their annuity benefit payments would continue as long as they live. As John and Jane observed, "This program is a 'Give and Gain' situation for everyone!"