Legacy Giving

Let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.

— 1 John 3:18

Giving is a joyful act when you know it will benefit others. We see this in the faces of so many as they lovingly give their time and their financial support to build homes and bring stability to their neighbors. If you are someone to whom much is given, there are many ways to leave a lasting legacy through Habitat. Whether you want to put your donation to work today or benefit families after your lifetime, your gift can be the seed for strong roots throughout our community.

Direct your assets while you’re able.

If you don’t have an estate plan, your assets will be distributed by state law — at least in South Dakota. This is why we encourage you to create a plan that will help direct your assets today. To get started, here are some common ways to make an impact through Habitat.

Charitable bequest in a will or trust

A charitable bequest stipulates that a specific amount (a percentage or the remainder of your estate) be given to Habitat after your lifetime. Gifts from your estate to Habitat are exempt from estate tax.

Gifts of appreciated stock

Stock that has increased in value is one of the most popular assets used for charitable giving, once it has been held for more than one year. Making a gift of securities to us offers you the chance to further our mission, while realizing many important benefits for yourself.

Retirement fund assets

Retirement fund assets may be heavily taxed if given to an individual. However, you may designate Habitat as a beneficiary of a specific amount, a percentage or the remainder of your retirement assets. Gifts from your retirement fund to Habitat are exempt from estate tax.

Life insurance

Life insurance in the form of an old policy no longer needed by the original beneficiary or a newly created policy to benefit Habitat can be a helpful investment in our mission. Small premiums now may generate a major gift in the future, and premiums for these policies are often tax deductible. Many employers provide group life insurance as a benefit, and Habitat may be named for a portion of the proceeds.

Real estate gifts

Real estate gifts may include developed property, undeveloped property or gifts subject to a prior life interest. Prior to acceptance of real estate, Habitat will require an environmental review of the property to ensure that the property has no environmental issues that may subject Habitat to legal and financial liability.

Contact us at 605-274-6281 or email for more information.

A home is instrumental in breaking the shackles of poverty from one generation to the next.

— Desmond Tutu