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National Gratitude Month and National Philanthropy Month Go Hand in Hand in November!

November is a time of falling leaves, pumpkin spice, and crisp autumn days. As we look forward to Thanksgiving, it’s also a time to reflect on our many blessings and the people and experiences in our lives that bring us joy. It’s not surprising, then, that November is National Gratitude Month.

Studies have shown that feeling and expressing gratitude in our everyday lives can actually boost our mental and physical health, according to an article by the Mayo Clinic. Feeling thankful can help improve sleep, mood, and immunity, while decreasing depression, anxiety, difficulties with chronic pain, and risk of disease. Positive gestures of gratitude release oxytocin, sometimes called the “love hormone,” helping us reframe negative thoughts and connecting us with others.

Journaling is a good way to express your thanks. Sharing a kindness with someone is even better! Sending a thank you note, for example, makes you—and the recipient—feel happier and healthier as a result. Volunteering or making a gift to a favorite charity is another great way to show gratitude. A good example is the UMRC-Porter Hills Foundation’s Tree of Life program, which offers the opportunity to honor or remember a treasured friend or loved one, while supporting the Benevolent Care Fund for qualified residents who have outlived their savings.

November is also National Philanthropy Month and goes hand in hand with this season of gratitude. November 15 is National Philanthropy Day.

As you’re considering your year-end giving, you can show your gratitude through a variety of planned giving options, including a gift from your:

  • Individual Retirement Account (IRA). If you are 70 ½ years or older, you can make a tax-free donation, or Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD), directly from your IRA to a qualified charity, such as the UMRC-Porter Hills Foundation. This allows you to avoid paying income taxes on your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).
  • Donor Advised Fund (DAF). Giving from your DAF offers a convenient way to support an organization you care about, provides tax advantages, and amplifies your impact.
  • Appreciated Stock. A gift of appreciated stock allows you to save the capital gains tax from the stock and get an income tax deduction to offset your taxable income.

Learn more about Brio Living Services and the UMRC-Porter Hills Foundation or call 734.433.1000 ext. 7502 or 616.577.2297. All of us at the UMRC-Porter Hills Foundation are grateful for you.