The Black United Fund of Illinois (BUFI) was founded on the principles of self-help, mutual aid and voluntary civic participation. BUFI believes that everyone, at every economic level, has something to contribute to the enhancement of the quality of life in our communities. By donating to BUFI, your dollars go a long way.

Be a philanthropist by setting aside a portion of your own resources, (i.e., money, supplies, strategies, energy, skills and time) to support economic development, alternative education, arts and culture, health and human service programs, social justice, legal services, research and emergency needs.

The Black United Fund of Illinois, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) federated organization and all donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.

There are several ways to contribute to the Black United Fund of Illinois:

Charitable Payroll Deduction
Payroll deduction campaigns in the workplace have proven to be the most efficient way by which working people can make charitable donations. The simple procedure requires that the employee write the Black United Fund of Illinois designated number on their payroll deduction form plus the dollar amount to be deducted per paycheck, monthly or annually.

It's easy, it's painless (you won't even miss it) and it's cost effective in that the employer's program will send the money to BUFI in a single check representing the total collected from all the employees who designated BUFI. An employer can also donate if they have a MATCHING GIFT program by which they match any donation an employee makes.

If you don't see us listed in your employers campaign, ask why and write us in. If you would like us to develop and/or manage a campaign at your company, contact BUFI.

Direct Donation
An individual or company can make a donation of money, stocks, real estate or anything of value, directly to our organization.

Endowment
An endowment can be established through a will, annuity, trust or planned gift. This will ensure that your gift will be disbursed at designated intervals or at a future time.

Foundation
BUFI can help set up your foundation and administer your donations, easing your workload and making sure your money is distributed as you wish. You will be able to continue giving to your favorite charities even after you're gone.

In Kind
A donation of goods, services, ideas and skills. A monetary value will be determined for tax purposes.

Volunteer
We and our affiliates need helping hands from time to time. We can't say enough about volunteerism; you can meet interesting new friends, see immediate results of your labor and feel good about the difference you're making in the lives of so many. Let us add you to our volunteer corps for:

• special events
• presentations to groups
• phone solicitations
• clerical assistance