Today's DAR
As December draws to a close, many of us pause to reflect on the year behind us and the values and goals we want to carry forward into the new year. This is why year-end giving has become such a meaningful tradition. Nearly one-third of all charitable giving happens in the final days of December, as donors strive to help their favorite causes begin the coming year with strength and stability.
For Daughters of the American Revolution, year-end giving offers both personal meaning and practical impact. It is a powerful way to support the mission we cherish—historic preservation, education, and patriotism—while ensuring that DAR enters the new year ready to lead as America marks its 250th anniversary.
If you haven’t already done so, here are four ways to make the most of your year-end giving this season for yourself and for our National Society.
1. Recognize the Importance of This Historic Moment
A December gift is more than a financial decision—it is a statement of intention. Giving at year’s end is a meaningful way to close the year with gratitude and begin the next with purpose and resolve.
Your year-end support is especially important this December as we turn the corner into 2026 and move quickly towards the 250th anniversary of America’s founding on July 4th. During America 250!, DAR has a vital role to play in educating the public, preserving history, and welcoming visitors. Beginning this milestone year on strong financial footing ensures we are prepared to meet this historic moment.
2. Consider the Tax Benefits
While every donor should consult a tax advisor about personal circumstances, gifts made by 11:59 p.m. on December 31 may offer important financial advantages. These may include:
- Charitable deductions for donors who itemize
- The opportunity to donate appreciated securities (stocks, bonds, mutual funds, etc.), potentially avoiding capital gains taxes
- Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from IRAs for donors age 70½ or older
For many, this makes year-end giving both generous and financially wise.
3. Give to DAR’s Area of Greatest Need
While membership dues support only a small portion of DAR’s operating costs, the General Fund ensures that our mission continues every day without interruption by caring for our greatest areas of need. Year-end gifts to the General Fund help support:
- The safekeeping, care and preservation of our two National Historic Landmarks and National Headquarters
- Lighting, electricity, water, and environmental controls
- Groundskeeping, landscaping, and 24/7 security and monitoring
- Technology and website systems used by members worldwide
- Our world-class DAR Library and Museum
- Exhibits, educational programs, and access to the DAR special collections for researchers around the globe
Just as importantly, the General Fund supports the dedicated staff members who bring DAR’s mission to life each day—ensuring they have the tools needed to serve members, students, researchers, and guests with excellence.
Year-end giving helps DAR staff step into the new year with confidence.
4. Check Your Giving History and Recognition Opportunities
Before making your year-end gift, take a moment to review your donor history. Many Daughters are surprised to see how close they already are to important recognition milestones.
Here, you can:
- Review your cumulative giving for the calendar year
- Print your donor history for your records
- See how close you are to qualifying for the 1890 Annual Giving Circle
- Determine whether a year-end gift could increase your Heritage Club level
Daughters who make cumulative General Fund gifts totaling $500 or more between January 1 and December 31 qualify for the 1890 Annual Giving Circle—not necessarily through a single donation.
