Welcome to the SoCalCGP Newsletter. The newsletter provides links to this page. Please see below for the items that appeared in the October 2024 issue.


Register Today for the November General Meeting!

Thursday, November 21, 2024 @ Braille Institute 

SESSION 1 | 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM 
 
Giving from Their Balance Sheet: Fundraising Non-cash Assets from High Net Worth Donors with Rudy Flesher, National Philanthropic Trust, Regional Director of Development, Southwest
 
This presentation will cover specific considerations for, and case studies of, accepting illiquid assets as charitable contributions including restricted stock, private business interests, and alternative investments. Fundraisers will have the information needed to consider whether their organization has or can/should build capacity to directly accept some or all of these assets, as well as alternative pathways for working with donors who own such assets if they cannot directly accept them.

SESSION 2 | 10:15 AM - 11:15 AM 
 
Identifying & Stewarding the Next Generation of Planned Giving Prospects with Kiana Chow, UCLA Office of Scholarships and Student Support Initiatives, Stewardship Coordinator
 
Most organizations aim to diversify their donor base and engage younger generations to reflect shifting demographics in the communities they serve. For both large and small organizations, this goal is easier said than done. Join us to hear a fresh take on this challenge by a rising development professional who will share her frontline experiences in identifying, cultivating, and stewarding the next generation of donors and planned giving prospects.

REGISTER HERE


7 Essential Tax Planning Tips

Sponsored by US Bank Wealth Management

Whether your donors are aiming to maximize deductions, defer income or make smart investment decisions, proactive tax planning throughout the year can help them minimize their tax liability and keep more of your hard-earned money. Here is a handy article from SoCalCGP Sponsor, U.S. Bank, that lists seven tax planning tips that may help donors optimize their tax situation, and when to consider taking action on them.

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SoCalCGP Member Profile: Meet Jenny Barizian

Director of Development at Pepperdine University

Almost a year ago, Jenny joined the mentoring program through SoCalCGP and feels fortunate to partner with Aaron Levinson, a former SoCalCGP president and current Board member. She has found the experience to be both professionally enriching and personally rewarding; and she has gained a wonderful friend through their discussions about estate planning and related scenarios. Overall, Jenny has found the mentorship program to be very educational, allowing her to refine her practices. In her current role, Jenny assists with estate planning, trusts, and various financial avenues that reflect financial planning and tax savings benefits. One of her favorite aspects of her job is connecting donors to their passions and helping them achieve their philanthropic goals. Before joining Pepperdine University, Jenny spent over 15 years in private legal practice, participating in fundraising and events, including working for Judge Alarcon on the 9th Circuit. Jenny says that her husband and her 14-year-old son constantly inspire her, and she strives to make the world a better place for him. Fun fact: She is a Disney enthusiast and loves Mickey Mouse!


Western Regional Planned Giving Conference 2025

Now Accepting Session Proposals!

We invite you to share your expertise at the Western Regional Planned Giving Conference, taking place at the Westin South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, CA, from May 21-23, 2025. The 2025 conference theme, “Charting the Course,” is about guiding and inspiring the future of planned giving and philanthropy. 

We are seeking proposals that align with our theme, directly or indirectly, and cover a wide range of charitable gift planning topics for both newcomers and seasoned professionals. As one of the nation’s largest and oldest councils, serving one of the most diverse regions, we’re curating a conference that will be dynamic, engaging, insightful, and fun.

We invite all professionals in the field—planned giving and major gifts officers, wealth managers, attorneys, marketing experts, accountants, nonprofit executives, and more—to submit. If you or someone you know is interested, please submit your proposal by November 1, 2024. Early submissions and multiple proposals are welcome!