Ways to Support Queer Youth at QUEERSPACE collective
- Dustin
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
At QUEERSPACE collective, we believe that every 2SLGBTQIA+ young person deserves a safe, affirming space where they can be their full selves, build community, and dream big. As we work to sustain and grow that vision, there are many ways you can join us. Below are some of the most impactful giving options we offer, whether you want to give today, plan long-term, or donate in creative ways that fit your financial situation.
💡 Gifting Options You Should Know
Gifts of Stock or Appreciated Securities:
If you own publicly traded stock (or other long-term appreciated securities), donating those shares can be a smart way to support Queer youth AND receive potential tax benefits. By donating stock directly rather than selling it, you may avoid capital gains taxes and deduct the fair market value of the shares as a charitable contribution. This can mean more impact for you and more support for our youth! Gifts of Stock should be transferred by December 31 if you want the credit for this tax year.
Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs):
A Donor-Advised Fund is a popular and flexible vehicle for philanthropy. When you contribute cash, securities, or other assets to a DAF, you receive an immediate tax deduction and can then recommend grants to charities (like QUEERSPACE!!) over time. DAFs give donors the convenience of giving now but granting later, and they can simplify charitable planning, especially in years of higher taxable income. Donor-Advised Funds offer flexibility. You can fund the DAF now for maximum 2025 tax benefit, and recommend grants to QUEERSPACE at your discretion.
IRA Charitable Rollovers (QCDs):
For supporters aged 70½ or older with a traditional IRA, an IRA charitable rollover (also called a Qualified Charitable Distribution, or QCD) can be a powerful giving option. Through a QCD, you can transfer up to $100,000 per year directly from your IRA to a public charity without paying income tax on the distribution. It’s an especially tax-efficient way to give, whether or not you itemize deductions. QCDs from IRAs must be completed by December 31, and they can reduce taxable income without itemizing.
If you enjoy running, walking, or being part of community events, giving via support tied to events like the Twin Cities Marathon is a meaningful and active way to show solidarity with Queer and Trans youth. Your participation as a runner or donor directly supports our mission and raises visibility for the community.
Direct Donations (One-Time or Recurring Gifts):
One of the simplest and most immediate ways to support QUEERSPACE is with a direct cash donation. Whether it’s a one-time year-end gift or a recurring monthly donation, every gift helps keep our doors open, our programs running, and our youth supported.
Wish List & In-Kind Giving:
Beyond money, there are ways to contribute essential items or resources. We maintain a current wish list — from supplies for the Youth Center, to materials for workshops, to items that help make our space more welcoming and useful. In-kind donations can make a big difference, especially for youth who otherwise lack access to safe, resource-rich spaces.
💖 Why Multiple Giving Options Matter
Every donor’s financial situation and giving goals are different. Some people prefer straightforward cash gifts, while others might want to use appreciated assets, retirement accounts, or special event contributions. By offering a range of giving options, we make it easier for everyone — regardless of income level or personal finance — to join in supporting Queer and Trans youth.
These flexible pathways also make our organization more resilient. Because safe, affirming spaces like the QUEERSPACE Youth Center require consistent support, having diverse funding sources helps ensure we can sustain mentorship, programming, and community even when economic conditions shift.
If you’re unsure what giving method is best for you, we’re happy to help. Reach out to Dustin at dustin@queerspacecollective.org and we can connect you with resources & tools to help tailor a tax-smart giving plan that matches your values and goals.
🌈 Join Us in Giving! Every Queer Young Person Deserves a Safe Space
Whether you give via stock, IRA, DAF, events, in-kind gifts or a simple cash donation, your generosity matters. It fuels 1:1 mentorship, drop-in center hours, community events, inclusivity training, and the sense of belonging so many Queer and Trans youth depend on.
From the bottom of our hearts and on behalf of every young person we serve, thank you.
Ready to give now? Visit our full Ways to Give page and make a difference today!
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