#15 Tax‑Smart Charitable Giving Strategies for Investors
Maximize impact and tax efficiency with proven charitable giving strategies. Learn how mid-stage investors can align philanthropy with smart capital allocation for lasting returns.
Charitable Giving Strategies for Mid-Stage Investors
Discover how charitable giving can be both a powerful philanthropic act and a strategic wealth‑building tool. In this episode, we explore tax‑efficient giving, 501(c)(3) benefits, and creative contribution methods with attorney Julia Helgeson of the Joyful Child Foundation. Designed for mid‑stage investors, this conversation simplifies complex legal and tax concepts so you can align your capital allocation with your values—maximizing both impact and returns.
Top Takeaways
- Leverage Business Entities — Give through your company to bypass the 60% AGI deduction limit.
- In‑Kind Asset Donations — Contribute appreciated securities to avoid capital gains and maximize charitable impact.
- Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) — Use IRA funds post‑70½ to meet RMDs and reduce taxable income.
- 501(c)(3) Advantages — Tax‑exempt status boosts donor appeal and shields mission‑related income from federal tax.
- Time, Talent, Treasure — Non‑cash contributions like expertise and leadership roles can be as valuable as money.
- Planned Giving Diversity — Explore underused giving vehicles for portfolio and tax strategy alignment.
- Network Growth Through Philanthropy — Strategic giving expands professional connections and influence.
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Charitable Giving & the Joyful Child Foundation
04:21 – Julia’s Journey to Nonprofit Work
06:49 – Programs & Initiatives of the Joyful Child Foundation
09:02 – Engaging with Nonprofits: Time, Talent, and Treasure
11:20 – Understanding 501(c)(3) & Charitable Giving
14:04 – Legal Aspects of Charitable Contributions
16:24 – Diverse Ways to Contribute to Nonprofits
19:40 – Tax Strategies for Charitable Giving
28:00 – The Broader Benefits of Giving for Investors
32:01 – Partnering with Advisors for Strategic Philanthropy
Credits
Sponsored by Real Advisers Capital, Austin, Texas
If you are interested in being a guest, please email us.
Disclaimers
“This production is for educational purposes only and is not intended as investment or legal advice.”
“The hosts of this podcast practice law with the law firm, Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC; however, the views expressed on this podcast are solely those of the hosts and their guests, and not those of Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC.”
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Julia Helgeson
Attorney at Grable Martin and Director at The Joyful Child Foundation
Julia Helgeson is a detail-oriented transactional attorney, non-profit director, and consultant with over two decades of experience bridging the legal, corporate, and nonprofit sectors. Currently serving as Of Counsel at Grable Martin PLLC and as Director of Operations & Programs for The Joyful Child Foundation, Julia combines her legal expertise with a deep commitment to child safety, advocacy, and community empowerment.
Her career spans leadership in grant writing, contract negotiation, public-private partnerships, legal document preparation, and nonprofit management. Julia is adept at distilling complex legal and operational issues into clear, actionable strategies, fostering strong relationships with clients, colleagues, organizational partners, and volunteers alike.
Before her current roles, she practiced law with Dannis Woliver Kelley and Bowie, Arneson, Wiles & Giannone, honing her skills in transactional law and client relationship management. She holds a J.D. from The University of Texas School of Law and a B.A. in Political Science from UCLA.
Passionate about protecting children and empowering communities, Julia has spent more than 13 years advancing the mission of The Joyful Child Foundation, where she leads initiatives like the BRAVE program to help children know their worth and stay safe.
