Donor FAQs

May I designate my gift?

Absolutely. You may direct your gift to a specific scholarship, academic program, department, campus initiative, or area of greatest importance to you. When you designate your gift, you ensure your philanthropy supports the causes and students you care about most.  

What is the difference between a restricted and an unrestricted gift?

Restricted Gifts

A restricted gift allows you to specify how your contribution will be used, such as funding:

• Scholarships
• Academic programs
• Workforce training initiatives
• Student support services
• Special projects or campus priorities>

Unrestricted Gifts 

An unrestricted gift provides the Foundation with the flexibility to respond to the College's most pressing needs and emerging opportunities. These gifts help address critical challenges, support innovative programs, and maximize impact where it is needed most.

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

Yes. Tribute gifts provide a meaningful way to honor or remember a family member, friend, mentor, colleague, or loved one while creating opportunities for TCC students. Your gift becomes a lasting expression of appreciation, celebration, or remembrance.  

How can I increase the impact of my gift?

Many employers offer matching gift programs that can double—or even triple—the value of your contribution. Check with your company's human resources department to determine whether your employer participates in a matching gift program and whether TCC Foundation qualifies.  

What are planned and outright gifts?

Planned Gifts

A planned gift is a charitable contribution thoughtfully integrated into your overall financial, tax, and estate planning. Planned giving can help you support future generations of students while potentially providing financial and tax advantages for you and your family.  

Outright Gifts

An outright gift is an immediate contribution made directly to the Foundation. Outright gifts may include: 

• Cash 
• Credit card donations 
• Appreciated securities 
• Real estate 
• Other valuable assets 

What are the benefits of making an outright gift?

When you make an outright gift to the TCC Foundation, you: 

• Create immediate opportunities for students. 
• Support high-impact educational programs and services. 
• May qualify for valuable charitable tax benefits. 
• Enjoy a simple and straightforward giving process. 
• See the impact of your generosity sooner.  
• Help advance TCC's mission of providing affordable, accessible, and life-changing education. 

Can I make a gift online?

Yes. Giving online is simple, secure, and convenient. Our online giving platform allows you to support the students, scholarships, and programs that matter most to you.

How do I create a scholarship?

Donors may establish scholarships that help students overcome financial barriers and achieve their educational goals. Scholarship opportunities may include annually funded scholarships, named scholarships, and named endowed scholarships that create a lasting legacy of support. Contact the TCC Foundation to learn more about current scholarship funding levels and options.

Is my contribution tax-deductible?

Yes. The TCC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Gifts are deductible for federal income tax purposes to the fullest extent allowed by law.