By Wendy Clark
Last month we told the story of a young person who decided to give her birthday money as a donation to ICC to help build a home for kids in the Congo. This month we are highlighting another young donor who cares about orphans.
Kalea Nielsen, 13, is a student leader at Skagit Adventist Academy. Over the last couple of years, she has experienced what it means to give through service to others in need.
“I have always loved helping people and when a service project came up in my technology class last year, it was the perfect opportunity to help the orphanages my great-grandmother started, International Children’s Care.”
When her teacher gave the project assignment in 2023, Kalea proposed doing a toy drive for the orphans, and the class agreed. Next, they placed large boxes in the school and at each church the classmates attended. The toy drive was announced, and toys soon filled the boxes. After a couple of weeks, the boxes were brought to ICC to be sent to the orphans in the Dominican Republic.
Last fall, Kalea’s teacher said they would repeat the toy drive since they had enjoyed it so much the previous year. Athletic toys, books in Spanish, and various practical items like bed sheets were collected and donated to ICC to be shipped to the orphans.
“I am very thankful that I was able to help a cause close to my heart, and I hope it makes a difference in the orphanages that we helped.”
Kalea, her classmates and teachers were blessed by the opportunity to help make a difference in the lives of orphans far away. ICC children will be blessed by receiving the toys and needed items.
See next month’s Que Pasa for Part 3 of this story.
A Story About Stocks
Jen and Jason have always been dedicated to supporting ICC orphans. After years of hard work, saving, and wise investments, they were blessed with financial success and wanted to share their abundance with those in need.
A few years ago, they invested in stocks recommended by their advisor, and the value grew significantly. When their advisor suggested selling some to lock in gains, they realized it would trigger a substantial Capital Gains Tax. They hoped to use the proceeds for home renovations, but the tax burden was a concern.
They then learned they could donate a portion of their appreciated stocks directly to charity, avoiding taxes. Even better, the charity could sell the stocks without paying taxes. Jen and Jason chose to donate stocks to ICC, reducing their tax burden while making a greater impact on vulnerable children.
A Donor Advised Fund (DAF) Story
Aaron, who works for a company offering a Donor Advised Fund, created a “Giving Account” where he donates income and appreciated stocks. By doing so, he avoids taxes and can direct the funds to his favorite charities. Aaron sent stocks to ICC, knowing they would help provide essential care for orphans, making a larger impact than cash donations.
For more information about donating stock or DAF assets, contact Wendy at 1-800-422-7729.
