Outright gifts represent assets you give immediately to support Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences. You can fulfill your gift with a single contribution or make incremental payments over time, for up to five years, which may allow you to maximize your giving and have an even greater impact on students.
Types of Outright Gifts
Cash / Pledges
Cash and pledges are convenient and easy ways to give to DMU. Many alumni and friends of the university give via check or credit card. Annual gifts of cash can be made with a single payment or in installments over the year(s). Cash gifts typically are deductible for people who itemize their taxes.
Use our Gift Pledge Form to get started.
Gifts-In-Kind
Gifts-in-kind are items of tangible property such as art, books, furnishings or products. The value of gifts-in-kind, for tax purposes over $5,000, must be assessed and certified by an independent professional at the donor’s request.
Contact us for more information about gifts-in-kind.
Matching Gifts
Matching gifts are a wonderful way to multiply the impact of your gift to DMU. Many employers offer programs in which they match or even double charitable gifts of their employees who complete the proper form.
To find out whether your employer will match your gift, contact its human resources staff or DMU’s Development and Alumni Relations department.
Real Estate
Real estate, including a personal home, vacation home or farm, can be given to DMU as an outright gift or via the donor’s estate. Gift options offer distinct tax benefits, such as an immediate income tax deduction and avoidance of capital gains tax. A donor may transfer to DMU ownership of an interest in property or real estate that is for sale; after the sale, the university receives its share of the proceeds.
Given the many considerations involved, prospective donors of real estate should discuss their goals and intentions with university staff prior to transfer.
Securities
Securities such as stocks, bonds or mutual funds may be given to DMU as outright gifts or pledge payments. Making a gift of long-term appreciated securities allows an income tax deduction equal to their fair market value and may allow the donor to avoid capital gains taxes on the transfer.