What is the ICC Foundation?

The ICC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) fundraising organization for Independence Community College.  Its mission is for the advancement of ICC and for the betterment of its students, faculty, staff, and the community.  The ICC Foundation exists solely for the benefit of ICC.

Why is the ICC Foundation separate from the college?

The ICC Foundation is specifically organized to provide management, reporting and stewardship services that donor require.  Donors receive many benefits from this separate organization, including:

More latitude in designating the use of their gifts than would be possible if the funds were given directly to the college and commingled with public funds.

Assurance that every effort will be made to maintain donor confidentiality, since the ICC Foundation is a separate not-for-profit corporation and not subject to open records laws.

Why is the ICC Foundation separate from the college?

Giving to the ICC Foundation instead of directly to ICC ensures all funds are used according to your specific requests and not mixed with state provided dollars. The ICC Foundation manages millions of dollars in endowment funds, so the return on these investments contributes significantly to the private support available to ICC.  Gift funds can be invested in equities and other instruments for long-term growth.  These generally earn a significantly higher rate of return.  The difference in earnings can be substantial, allowing donors to provide greater support for ICC students, faculty and staff.

Doesn't the Foundation already have substantial funding?  Why are new gifts needed?

As higher education costs increase, so does the ICC Foundation's need to support those rising costs.  The ICC Foundation has many endowments that earn income, thus supporting ICC students.  However, many of those endowments are already designated to a particular fund and do not provide for new programs, facilities, scholarships, etc.  Annual and unrestricted gifts are extremely vital to future scholarships.  For more information about how you can help support the ICC Foundation scholarship programs, please contact the ICC Foundation (620) 331-2480.

How can I afford to help the ICC Foundation?

The size of the gift you make is entirely up to you.  Donations of all sizes are vital and gratefully accepted.  Every dollar the Foundation receives has the potential for exponential growth; since it helps ICC students achieve their educational goals.  Some donors find they can achieve their charitable goals through the Foundation's many planned giving avenues, such as life insurance, property, real estate and securities, that don't require a large sum of cash-on-hand.  Pledges may also help achieve your goals as a donor.  Bear in mind that you may be able to double or even triple your gift by taking advantage of your employer's matching gift for higher education program.

Will my company match my gift to the ICC Foundation?

Many companies offer employees and sometimes spouses and retirees a matching gift benefit that doubles or triples their donations to higher education.  Companies have various methods by which you can submit your matching gift request:  online forms, automated phone systems or paper forms that you submit to the ICC Foundation.  Please visit your companies human resource department to find out more about matching gift donations.


What is an endowment?

Donors may establish an endowment fund to ensure a gift's long-lasting impact for ICC, only the income earned from investments may be disbursed.  Since an endowment's principal is never spent, your gift continues in perpetuity.  ICC Foundation's endowment funds are professionally invested and managed by the Foundation's Finance Committee.  The Committee meets quarterly to review the endowment management results and policies to determine the amount of money to be disbursed. 

Can I give to my favorite department or program?

Absolutely!  The designation of your gift rests entirely in your hands.  If you know the name of the department or program, simply indicate it in the memo space on your check.  If you need guidance in designating a gift, the Foundation will be happy to provide information about ICC's greatest needs regarding scholarship opportunities for each department.

Can I make a gift in honor or memory of someone?

Absolutely!  Many donors contribute funds to honor a loved one or a special individual.  If you would like to make your gift in honor or memory of another person - or if you wish to give in another's name - just let us know the details.  The Foundation will notify the family or person of any gifts made in tribute unless the donor requests anonymity.  The ICC Foundation is happy to carry out your wishes.

What is the difference between restricted and unrestricted gifts?

Unrestricted gifts provide a funding source for the ICC Foundation that is not limited to a specific program or department.  These gifts are used where needed most throughout ICC, including resources to create new scholarship programs and enhance the overall academic life of the campus. 

Restricted gifts are earmarked for specific purposes chosen by the donor, such as an endowed scholarship or program. 

Although both unrestricted and restricted gifts are welcome, unrestricted gifts are of critical importance because they allow the Foundation to provide funding for the areas of greatest need to meet unexpected challenges, take advantage of unique opportunities, and meet changing scholarship needs due to the increase costs of higher education.

How should I make out my check?

Gifts to Independence Community College may be made through the ICC Foundation, the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that raises and manages private support for ICC.  Checks should be made out to the "Independence Community College (ICC) Foundation" and indicate the fund name or purpose for which they are intended in the memo section.  You can mail these to:  P.O. Box 218, Independence, KS  67301.

How do I get a tax credit for my charitable donation?

As soon as the ICC Foundation receives your gift, we place it in the designated fund.  At the same time, a gift receipt is mailed to you for tax preparations generally within the same week.  If you do not receive a formal acknowledgement within three weeks, please contact the ICC Foundation office at (620) 331-2480.  Please consult your tax attorney or financial advisor to determine instructions and proper tax credits available for your gift.

Is there someone with whom I can discuss my interest in giving to the ICC Foundation?

The ICC Foundation works closely with donors to unite donors and ICC scholarship needs and priorities.  Please contact the ICC Foundation office at (620) 331-2480.

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