Gift Acceptance Policy
What is LMM’s Gift Acceptance Policy?
Purpose
The purpose of this Gift Acceptance Policy is to ensure that all gifts to, or for the benefit of, Lighthouse Mission Ministries (LMM) support its mission of Healing Homelessness with Christ’s Power and Love.
This policy provides guidance to donors, staff, and volunteers to ensure that all charitable gifts are handled with integrity, transparency, and in alignment with biblical stewardship principles and
applicable laws.
Guiding Principles
LMM primarily accepts unrestricted gifts to its General Fund to advance our organization’s mission; however, restricted gifts may be accepted with prior written approval from the Board. We will act with honesty, transparency, and prayerful discernment in all gift-related matters. Gifts from individuals, corporations, or entities whose activities fundamentally conflict with our statement of faith may be respectfully declined. We will make every reasonable effort to honor the expressed intent of each donor; however, LMM retains full discretion and control over the use of all gifts.
Acceptable Gift Types
Cash and Checks – Accepted in any amount. Checks should be made payable to Lighthouse Mission Ministries, not to an individual or ministry staff member.
Securities – Publicly traded securities are accepted and liquidated as soon as practical. Closely held securities will be reviewed before acceptance.
Real Estate – Real property gifts require environmental and legal due diligence. LMM will not accept real estate that contains environmental hazards or liens.
Tangible Personal Property – Accepted only if the property can be used in furtherance of the LMM’s mission or easily converted to cash. (Example: furniture for a shelter, vehicles for outreach, etc.)
In-Kind Donations – Accepted if they meet current programmatic needs (e.g., food, hygiene items, clothing, bedding). LMM reserves the right to decline items that cannot be used or distributed with dignity. Bequests and Planned Gifts – Encouraged as part of a donor’s legacy. Donors should consult their attorney or financial advisor for legal and tax advice.
Donor Acknowledgment and Recognition
All gifts will be acknowledged promptly and in accordance with IRS regulations. Donor recognition will reflect LMM’s values of humility and gratitude. Donors may remain anonymous if requested, subject to legal disclosure requirements. Public recognition or naming opportunities must be approved by the Board or Executive Leadership.
Valuation and Reporting
Gifts will be recorded at fair market value at the time of receipt in accordance with IRS and GAAP standards. Donors are responsible for securing appraisals for non-cash gifts if required by the IRS. LMM will provide receipts and documentation sufficient for the donor’s tax reporting purposes.
Contact Information
Questions about this policy or specific gift opportunities may be directed to accounts@thelighthousemission.org
Who can I contact about social media, website, or other marketing/communications inquiries?
Please send all inquiries to our Director of Marketing and Communications, Reuben Evans. He can be contacted at reubene@thelighthousemission.org.
