‘Tis the Season

A Special Message from Director of Development Kathy Murray

Many of you ask, “How can I help?” Good news—even if you aren’t in Jacksonville, you can help UF Health Proton Therapy Institute in a variety of ways. Whether you spread the word about the compassionate care you received, participate in many of our ongoing research protocols or provide philanthropic support, you are helping us defeat cancer.

It is my privilege to connect our patients and friends with opportunities for support. No matter the gift amount, your support matters. I am at your service at Proton, or available by telephone at (904) 588-1519.

Did you know…?

CARES Act Considerations

• This fall is an especially interesting season with the unique philanthropic opportunities created by the CARES Act. You may be able to make a larger gift before December 31, 2020, and enjoy a generous deduction. Please consider this one-time option.

Gifts from Retirement Accounts

• As in other years, if you are 70.5 years of age or greater, you are also able to give to UF Health Proton Therapy Institute directly from your retirement account. While you won’t receive a deduction for the gift, you also won’t pay taxes on the amount you withdraw. If you have appreciated securities in your retirement account, this is a wonderful way to support us while reducing your tax bill.

Appreciated Assets

• While the stock market has been a wild ride, there is no doubt that many are fortunate to have highly appreciated assets as part of their portfolio. Whether you have real estate that has appreciated, stocks or other assets, it may be advantageous for you to gift all or some of the asset to us.

Gifts may be directed to a fund of your choice. Our Patient Experience Enhancement Fund is very popular as it provides direct benefit to our patients and their experience with us. We also have a research fund, administered by Dr. Mendenhall. Through research we are able to improve the care we deliver to our patients. Our Annual Fund (where the need is greatest) is our most popular fund and is flexible enough to allow us to be responsive to emergencies and unique situations.

We are here to help. The increased costs of caring for patients, along with restrictions surrounding travel, have only added to the complexity of providing care. While we have implemented many changes with safety in mind, one thing remains constant: providing the most technologically advanced care for our patients when they need it most. I look forward to meeting you virtually and helping you find the most advantageous way to support us as we fight cancer and COVID-19.

Please do not hesitate to introduce yourself to me. I welcome your thoughts and ideas. Together, we can make a difference. I am available by email at kmurray@floridaproton.org or by calling (904) 588-1519.