Why Giving Matters
July 24, 2023 2025-06-11 18:54Culture of Giving
Cultivating a Culture of Giving at Rocky
Since 1878, the institutions that eventually became Rocky Mountain College have been sustained by generous giving from individuals, foundations, and businesses that believed passionately in the mission of private faith-based education in Montana. These supporters worked diligently alongside institutional leadership to create the college that we know today. This unwavering commitment and common vision for private higher education continue to drive the mission of RMC. The culture of giving and involvement that exists in the community surrounding Rocky is unique and it helps to define the college both in the present and future.
The culture of giving at RMC is defined by four core values:
Transformational Giving
Mission Alignment
Creativity and Innovation
Partnership and Stewardship
Planned Giving
When you give to Rocky Mountain College, you provide the support to sustain and advance the commitment of Montana’s first institution of higher education to fully prepare and develop future leaders regardless of a student’s ability to afford a college education. Your support provides students with a transformative gift of opportunity. The following are some of ways that you can support Rocky through a planned gift:
Bequests
A gift in your will or living trust is a simple, flexible, and versatile way to sustain Rocky Mountain College’s mission for years to come. You can name RMC as a percentage beneficiary, for a specific dollar amount, or as a residual recipient.
Retirement Plan or Life Insurance Policy Designations
You may name Rocky Mountain College as a beneficiary on retirement plans and life insurance policies. Notify your plan or policy holder on the form needed. This easy way to give is also flexible. You can review and adjust beneficiary designations at any time.
Charitable Remainder Trusts
If you have built up a sizable estate and want to receive reliable payments while supporting the College, consider arranging a charitable remainder trust. A wide variety of trusts exists to suit your needs.
Charitable Gift Annuities
Charitable Gift Annuities allow you to transfer assets to the College in exchange for lifetime income. You can begin receiving payments immediately or at a future time you select. Different states have different laws governing charitable annuities. Please contact our development office to learn the specific details of your situation and together we can plan your gift accordingly.
Montana Endowment Tax Credit
In 1997 the Montana Endowment Tax Credit (“METC”) was created to encourage gifts to endowments supporting Montana charities. This tax credit was made permanent in 2023.
The METC is available to individuals who pay income tax in Montana who make a qualified planned gift to a permanent endowment to benefit a tax-exempt charitable 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Businesses qualify by making a cash gift to a qualified endowment to benefit a tax-exempt charitable 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
All of Rocky Mountain College’s endowed funds qualify for the Montana Endowment Tax Credit. The credit is 40% of the planned gift’s federal charitable deduction value, up to a maximum of $15,000 per individual or $30,000 per couple. For businesses, the credit is calculated at 20% of the value of the gift, up to a maximum of $15,000.
To learn more or to take advantage of this tax break contact the Office of Development at development@rocky.edu or by calling 406-657-1008.
To learn more or to take advantage of this tax break contact the Office of Development at development@rocky.edu or by calling 406-657-1008.
