The holiday season comes with the spirit of giving in the air. By being mindful of how and where you donate, you can make a greater impact and give with confidence
The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore makes it easy to turn holiday generosity into lasting local impact. From charitable giving funds to donor-advised opportunities, they help ensure every contribution strengthens the Shore community for years to come.
The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore serves as a local philanthropic expert, providing insight on regional issues, uniting donors with charitable causes, building nonprofit capacity, and maximizing investments to strengthen the community.
“We knew donors were looking for a simple way to find causes that aligned with their passions and were verified as trustworthy charities,” says Community Foundation President Erica Joseph. “We launched Shore Gives 365 to offer donors a one-stop shop to find verified, local charities. We take out the guesswork and burden of verification for donors. Shore Gives 365 incorporates all the giving tips we remind donors of every day.”
Meet Critical Needs
Find special giving opportunities that will make your charitable contribution go further or support a specific critical need
Verfified Charities
All charities listed on Shore Gives 365 are routinely verified as tax-exempt through the IRS
Direct Giving
All donations given through Shore Gives 365 are given directly to the charity
Local Giving
All listed nonprofits are local to the Lower Eastern Shore
Learn More
All charities listed include a profile that gives donors information about their mission and needs
Year-Round, No Pressure
Shore Gives 365 was created to offer greater flexibility and expanded visibility for meaningful donor engagement all year long
Easy To Use for the Whole Family
Create a legacy of giving for generations to come
This giving season, keep these tips in mind:
Verify Who You Are Supporting and Ask Questions
Always verify a nonprofit’s charitable status. Donate to trusted charities and beware of scammers. Remember that tax-exempt and tax-deductible are not the same. Check a nonprofit’s status on your state’s charity database, CharityNavigator.org, Guidestar.org, or at IRS.gov/charities-and-nonprofits.
Give Directly to a Nonprofit
Never give cash, write a check or transfer money to an individual. Donations should always be made in the name of the organization. Be cautious when responding to an email or text message request. Verify websites and other links before making a gift online.
Understand Local vs. National (or International) Organizations
If giving locally is important to you, it is wise to determine whether you are giving to a national organization or a local chapter. Check with the local branch of an organization to determine the best way to donate. You may be able to specify that your gift be used for a particular location or need.
Don’t Feel Pressured
The holidays often bring increased public donation requests. If an organization pressures you beyond a simple request, this may be a red flag. Avoid on-the-spot decisions and resist pressure to donate to an unfamiliar organization. Responsible organizations will welcome your gift at any time.
Involve the Whole Family
Establishing traditions of generosity and passing along the spirit of giving help create your legacy. Involving children and grandchildren in charitable activities teaches philanthropy and family values—and ensures the benefits of your charitable goals for generations to come.
Find Unique Ways to Give
Donor Advised Fund (DAF): Like a charitable investment account, a DAF is ideal for donors seeking a hands-on approach and the assistance of a sponsoring organization. Contributions are usually tax-deductible immediately, and you can choose when and where to support your favorite charities.
Bequest, Life Insurance, or Charitable Gift Annuity: Commit assets now that will carry on your legacy in the future.
Give More Than Money: Donate items, volunteer, or share your professional expertise.
Maximize Impact with Tax Benefits: Work with your tax advisor on incentive programs like Endow Maryland or give through retirement accounts to reduce your tax burden.
Philanthropy is personal. Giving should be something that makes you feel good and helps your community. Your regional Community Foundation is ready to assist you—even if you don’t donate to the Foundation itself. Contact the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore at CFES.org or 410-742-9911. CS
