Your Free Press Giving Guide

As 2024 draws to a close, donation appeals and holiday shopping guides are filling digital and physical mailboxes. At Free Press, we understand that there's significant competition for donations and people's time. There will be some personal causes Free Press can't compete with this year, and that's OK.

Every day we are humbled and inspired by the generosity of our community of donors, supporters and activists, who have long championed our campaigns to get everyone connected to high-speed internet, protect Net Neutrality, stop racist hate and disinformation, reinvent local journalism and ensure that everyone is connected to trustworthy and lifesaving news and information.

No corporate money — ever

Free Press doesn't take a single cent from business, government or political parties. We've been 100 percent independent since our founding 21 years ago: Our work is funded solely through contributions from charitable foundations and individuals.

We believe that each gift should benefit Free Press in the most ethical and unencumbered manner, and be consistent with our mission, core values and commitment to being a multiracial organization that builds power with people, embodies equity and inclusion, and acts with rigor and integrity.

Ways to support Free Press’ mission

For those who can help support us financially, know that your donation is an investment in a better future for media and tech. Here are some ways to give to Free Press and create a sustainable legacy:

Immediate giving options

• Single or Monthly Gifts: Give online or via phone and mail. There's a $5 minimum for online gifts, with no minimum for other methods.
   
• Workplace-Matching Donations: Many employers offer matching contributions. Check if your workplace participates.
   
• Stocks and Securities: Donate appreciated securities to avoid capital-gains taxes while receiving a charitable deduction for the full fair-market value.
   
• Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs): Receive immediate tax benefits while supporting our mission. DAFs allow you to recommend distributions to Free Press or other charities.

Strategic giving options

• Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs): Make direct transfers from your IRA to Free Press, potentially satisfying your required minimum distribution while excluding the amount from taxable income.
• Planned Giving:
  • List Free Press as a beneficiary on life-insurance plans, retirement accounts or bank accounts.
  • Include Free Press in your will.
  • Make a bequest to reduce your taxable estate.

Creative ways to support Free Press

• Fundraise on Our Behalf: Consider donating your birthday, hosting a fundraising event or organizing community gatherings to benefit our work.
   
• Alternative Giving Platforms: Support us through platforms like JustGive or Network for Good.
   
• Start a Monthly Gift: Sustain our work by making recurring donations.

Looking ahead to 2025

As Free Press approaches our third decade of advocacy, your support is more crucial than ever. The digital landscape continues to evolve, presenting new challenges to our rights to connect and communicate. Your investment helps ensure that Free Press remains at the forefront of:

• Protecting digital rights and privacy in the age of AI
   
• Pushing for media reparations and justice
   
• Combating hate and misinformation
   
• Strengthening local news
   
• Expanding affordable internet access
   
• Defending public media
   
• Protecting Net Neutrality

With your support, we'll continue making real progress in upholding democratic values in the digital age. As technology transforms society, new threats emerge that put our rights at risk. That's why your donation is so important: It will help Free Press continue our vigilant work to ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to be seen, heard and understood.

We look forward to the progress we can make together in 2025 and beyond. Need to update your contact information or learn more about our giving opportunities? Reach out to me.

Keep Free Press' work going strong: Donate today.