Donations Make a Difference

Donations made to Mote Marine Laboratory and Mote Aquarium provide support for vital scientific research projects and public educational programs and help us communicate our findings with the public. Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

Gifts-in-Kind
Mote accepts a variety of gifts-in-kind, including watercraft and items to support our EBay auction site. Gifts valued at $5,000 or more require a written letter of appraisal. For more information on making a donation of a gift-in-kind, please contact the Development Division at 941.388.4441, ext. 309.

Securities
Securities may be given through account transfer arranged with your broker and Mote Marine Laboratory by calling the Development Division at 941.388.4441, ext. 309. Donating securities allows you to avoid the tax on any potential capital gain and receive a deduction for the full fair market value of the securities. (Please contact your tax advisor for current deductible regulations.)

Appreciated Property
The deduction for gifts of appreciated property you have held for more than one year is normally equal to the fair market value of the property donated. If you have held the property for less than one year, your deduction is limited to your cost basis (what you originally paid for the property). (Please contact your tax advisor for current deductible regulations.)

Depreciated Property
Conversely, if you are considering a contribution of property that has decreased in value since acquisition, you can only claim a deduction for the property’s fair market value. Thus you should first sell the property and then donate the proceeds, thereby establishing a loss for tax purposes (available to offset other gains). (Please contact your tax advisor for current deductible regulations.)

Matching Gifts-Workplace Giving
Many employers will match your gift — whether it is financial or made with a donation of volunteer man-hours — in a one-to-one or event a two-for-one match. These important matching gifts programs provide important support for Mote's efforts. Some companies even extend such matching programs to retirees.
For information about your employer, please contact the employee benefits office at your place of employment to request a matching gift form. Forms should be mailed to
Mote Marine Laboratory
Attn: Matching Gifts
1600 Ken Thompson Parkway
Sarasota, FL 34236
For more information, call 941.388.4441, ext. 309.