<h2>Message from the Executive Director of University Development<br /></h2><p><img height="125" border="0" width="100" alt="harold melser" src="/id0904f67a8008c005" align="right" />When most of us think about giving a gift, we think about writing a check or using a credit card to support our favorite cause. Many of the gifts received at the SIUE Foundation are made in just this manner. Yet, this is just one of the ways gifts can be made. With a bit of <a href="/id0904f67a80148e92">gift planning</a>, we can explore ways that you can create a gift using other assets, create a gift that gives back to you, or create a gift for the future.</p><p>Whether you are considering making a gift of <a href="/id0904f67a80150a27">real estate</a>, <a href="/id0904f67a80150a27">stock</a>, or creating a <a href="/id0904f67a80150a2b">donor advised fund</a>, we are here to help you and your advisor to maximize your gift. More traditional planned gifts, such as <a href="/id0904f67a80150a57">bequests</a> and <a href="/id0904f67a80150a5e">life insurance</a> gifts, are other options.</p><p>Through SIUE <a href="/id0904f67a80150a68">Life Income Gift Plans</a>, you may receive valuable benefits including life-long income, charitable income tax deductions, avoidance of capital gains tax and a measurable financial benefit to your family. Check out this information and learn more about ways we can pay you while you make a commitment of a future gift to the University.</p><p>We are here to help you. I encourage you to contact me with any questions you might have. I look forward to discussing these options with you.</p><p>Harold Melser, MA, FAHP<br />Executive Director of University Development<br />hmelser@siue.edu<br />618-650-3331</p><p></p>