Gifts That Make An Impact Now

Ohio Erie Canal Towpath  |  Photo by Jason Cohn

If you would like to bring the power of trails to more people across the country today, consider the giving options below—many of which have financial and personal benefits to you.

Support The Future of My Favorite Charity brochure cover

You can learn more about these special opportunities in our free brochure, Smart Ways to Make an Impact Now, and other complimentary planning resources. These resources are just a click away!

Donate Now

To support RTC’s current work, make a gift online or by mail:

2445 M Street, NW, Suite 650
Washington, DC 20037

Recommend a grant now from your donor-advised fund

You can use your donor-advised fund (DAF) to make a one-time gift, or to create a recurring monthly or quarterly gift for even more impact.

You can conveniently initiate a grant from your DAF using the link below. Simply type in the name of your fund sponsor and the system will prompt you through the process.

Memorial or Tribute Gift

When you give a memorial or tribute gift for RTC to honor someone special, you’re expressing your love, admiration, and gratitude in one of the most meaningful ways there is. Your gift will honor your loved one, create a lasting tribute, and foster healthy, thriving communities across the nation.

Gifts of Appreciated Securities

You can use stocks, bonds, and mutual funds that have appreciated in value to support our shared vision. You may receive a charitable income tax deduction for the full market value of the stock (up to a maximum of 30% of your adjusted gross income) and avoid paying the capital gains tax on any increase in the value of the stock.

Qualified Charitable Distribution

You can transfer funds from your IRA directly to RTC. This is an effective way to have an immediate impact and ensure our work of reimagining public spaces. Here’s how it works:

  • You must be 70 ½ or older.
  • An individual may transfer up to a total of $105,000 per year and a married couple may give up to $210,000 to all organizations.
  • Your gift must be transferred directly from the IRA account to Rail-to-Trails Conservancy.
  • Your gift is a transfer of funds from your IRA to RTC so it does not count as income for the year.
  • If you are 73 and older, the transfer of funds counts towards your annual Required Minimum Distribution from your IRA.

You can download a sample letter for your IRA administrator here to start the distribution process. You may also be able to request a qualified charitable distribution through your online account portal.

Please note: If you are still working and contributing to a retirement account, this gift could impact your taxable income. Please consult a qualified advisor before making a gift.

See Your Impact

Since Rails to Trails Conservancy’s inception in 1986, we have helped to create a powerful national movement that is connecting communities from coast to coast. To put trails at the heart of healthy, thriving communities we must advocate, mobilize, collaborate, connect, and elevate trails as essential infrastructure.

WV Mon River Trail  |  Photo by Renee Rosensteel

Our Team is Here to Help

Our experienced team is here to help you…

  • Learn about special projects that align with your interests.
  • Structure a donation that maximizes benefits for you and your loved ones.
  • Stay up to date on how your gift is used.
  • And more!