In-Kind Donations: Giving Beyond Dollars

Not every gift to a nonprofit comes in the form of money. In-kind donations, gifts of goods or services, can be just as valuable. For a volunteer-run youth sports program, in-kind support can cover costs that would otherwise come out of tight budgets and free up cash for other needs.

What are in-kind donations?

In-kind donations are non-cash gifts. They can include:

• Goods, such as food, supplies, equipment or prizes.
• Services, such as printing, landscaping, electrical work or accounting.
• Use of facilities, such as a space for an event.
• Professional expertise, such as legal advice, marketing or photography.

How in-kind donations help youth sports

Events

Food, drinks and supplies for community events, fundraisers and team celebrations are common in-kind gifts. Donated items reduce costs and increase the money raised.

Prizes

Gift cards, merchandise and experiences make great raffle prizes or awards.

Field and facilities

Professional services, such as mowing, landscaping, electrical work, plumbing or carpentry, help maintain fields and buildings. Donated materials, such as paint, seed or lumber, also help.

Printing and promotion

Printing of flyers, banners and programs can be expensive. Businesses that donate printing services help programs promote events and recognize sponsors.

Professional services

Accountants, lawyers, graphic designers and other professionals can help with financial management, legal questions, marketing and more.

What to know before donating equipment

Some equipment can be donated safely, while some cannot. Gently used cleats, gloves, bats and practice gear are often welcome. However, protective equipment such as football helmets and shoulder pads should not be donated used, because it needs to be properly fitted, inspected and certified. Always ask the program before donating equipment.

Coordinate first

Before making an in-kind donation, contact the organization to make sure the gift fits its needs. A donation that does not match what the program needs can create storage or disposal problems. Coordinating in advance ensures your gift is used well.

Tax considerations

In-kind donations of goods may be tax-deductible. Generally, donors determine the value of their donated items, and the nonprofit provides a written acknowledgment describing the donation. Donations of services, however, are generally not tax-deductible, although some related expenses may be. Consult a tax professional for advice about your situation.

Recognition

Many nonprofits recognize in-kind donors the same way they recognize financial donors, with thank-you letters, public recognition and inclusion on sponsor lists. Let the organization know how you would like to be recognized.

Every gift counts

In-kind donations show that there are many ways to support youth sports. Whether you donate food for a community night, print banners for a team or help repair a fence, your contribution makes a real difference. Thank you for thinking creatively about how to help.