Donating to First Parish
All that First Parish is and does exists only because of the support of our community. Your time, talents, and financial gifts sustain our congregation. To help ensure a solid foundation for our programs, our staff, and our facilities, we ask you to financially support First Parish. We are grateful for all gifts.
Make a Financial Gift
Gifts to First Parish in Wayland are gratefully accepted at any time and are fully tax deductible. There are many ways to support First Parish with a financial gift.
- Make a donation through our online donation site. Here you can make a one-time gift, contribute to our Sunday plate, contribute to other collections or funds (ex. Lydia Maria Child Fund), pay for an event (auction, “Dining for Dollars” event, outing, etc.), or fulfill a pledge. You can pay with a credit card or through a bank debit, and/or set up automatic donations.
- Donate Securities (Stocks)
- Make qualified charitable donations from an IRA
- Name First Parish in your estate
Make a Pledge
Please support First Parish by making an annual pledge. A pledge is your promise to contribute a certain amount of money over the fiscal year. Our pledge year runs from July 1st to June 30th, but you may begin your pledge at any time. To make a pledge, please complete a pledge card, or fill out an online pledge form by clicking on the “Make a Pledge” button below. Your pledge should be an amount that reflects your commitment to our community and your values.
You may pay your pledge by mailing us a check or dropping a check in the collection basket on Sunday morning, by setting up automatic payments taken directly out of your bank account or charged to your credit card, or by donating appreciated stock. If you would like more information about making a pledge, please email stewardship@uuwayland.org.
Donate Securities (Stocks)
Donations of stock allow a member to support causes important to them without affecting personal cash flow. Generally speaking, the most tax-advantaged approach is to donate stock held for more than one year that has appreciated in value. This provides for a larger charitable contribution and avoids tax on the capital gain. For losing stock, sell it first and then donate the cash. Individuals considering a donation of securities should consult with their tax or financial advisor.
Qualified Charitable Distribution from an IRA
Making a direct transfer from an IRA allows a member age 70½ or over to avoid a tax hit on the annual required minimum distribution. In this case, the charitable contribution must go directly to First Parish, not the taxpayer first. This option requires some advance planning, so individuals considering it should consult with their tax or financial advisor.
Thank you for supporting the work of First Parish in Wayland.