Feast of ‘Izzat/Might-September 7, 2024
Bahá’í National Fund Update
As of Sept 1st, $11.5M has been contributed towards the Bahá’í National Fund goal of $50M
(For fiscal year 2024-25).
Unrestricted (not earmarked) contributions towards the National Fund goal allow for flexibility in supporting the many activities of the Faith. Universal Participation will be the key to achieving this victory. To Contribute please visit https://ocs.bahai.us/ocs/
ONLINE CONTRIBUTION SYSTEM ENHANCEMENT UPDATE
What's New?
We are excited to announce a new enhancement to the Online Contribution System (OCS). As pictured above, the list of various Funds from which the friends can select for their contribution is now available in an easier to find and recognize format. The system will also allow users to switch back to the original interface if they prefer it, as highlighted above in the upper right corner. If you have any questions or feedback regarding this update to the system, please do not hesitate to contact us.
The Office of the Treasurer offers several workshops and presentations on the Institution of the Fund. One of the most beautiful aspects of these educational gatherings is the ongoing collaboration that continues beyond the in-person presentations. After working closely with the Local Assembly or Regional Council, the education team remains engaged in reflections, consultation, and collaboration with the Institution on the work of effectively disseminating the learnings throughout the community. This ongoing partnership not only enhances our collective understanding but also strengthens the bonds of love and friendship, ultimately benefiting the broader community.
A wonderful example of this collaboration was the recent engagement of the Office of the Treasurer with the Local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Houston. Inspired by the educational workshops held in Houston back in October of 2023, particularly the session on 'Elements of Spiritual Fundraising,' the Assembly took concrete steps to share the learnings with their community and actively encouraged additional fundraising efforts to support the National Fund. They shared a moving story from a recent fundraiser held as a result, which beautifully captured the spiritual essence of the workshops. They invited each member of their community to bring a photo of a loved one who had passed away, and together, they offered prayers for the progress of their souls. In memory of their loved ones, members were encouraged to contribute to the Fund. This heartfelt initiative resulted in strengthening the bonds of fellowship and love within the community as well as providing a considerable contribution to the Fund. This example serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and the profound impact when we continue to work together in the spirit of unity and love.
If your community is interested in hosting any of these Fund Education workshops, please visit
https://bahaitreasurer.us/workshop-presentations or contact us at bahaitreasurersoffice@usbnc.org or call 847-733-3472
Bahá’ís in the Houston Area participating in a fund education weekend
Southern Oregon Summer Youth Training Institute Camp- VOL 3, NO 4 -- July 2024
YOUTH CORNER
Youth Training Institutes, Bahá’í Summer Schools, and Youth Camps are some of many society-building efforts that are made possible by contributions to the Funds of the Faith. Did you attend one of these activities this summer? Send us your reflections or stories about the event or on the Institution of the Fund. Stories, pictures, and or videos can be sent to bahaitreasurersoffice@usbnc.org.
Interested in making a contribution, securing a tax deduction, and growing your contribution tax-free?
A Donor Advised Fund (DAF) allows you to contribute cash or appreciated securities, claim a tax deduction for that year, watch your contribution grow tax-free over time, and enjoy the convenience of a consolidated tax document for all your charitable giving. DAFs can be set up through a financial institution or a qualified community foundation.
Additionally, you can directly contribute appreciated securities to the National Spiritual Assembly and still benefit from the associated tax advantages.
For more information or if your LSA would like to schedule a planned giving presentation, please email plannedgiving@usbnc.org or call 847-733-3569.