Cummiskey: This year, consider a tax deductible donation to benefit Paradise Valley Police Department

That’s right --- this is the first year you can help the Paradise Valley Police Department by making a tax-deductible donation to The Paradise Valley Public Safety Foundation, Inc.

Newly formed in 2019, the foundation is a recognized independent 501(c)3 organization, operated by residents who volunteer their time and expertise for the good of the town. We also have professionals helping us with accounting, legal and non-profit banking services.

Although the foundation is an independent entity, facilitating charitable contributions for public safety, our efforts are aligned with and supported by the Town Council and Police Chief Peter Wingert.

The foundation accepts private donations for the benefit of public safety, as a supplement to the steadfast funding, commitment, and programs supported by the Town Council through its allocation of public funds.

Getting a tax deduction is great, but so is the cause. Our police department already provides so many great services for residents, including Coffee with a Cop every month, Vacation Watch, Home Security Reviews and the You Are Not Alone (YANA) program.

Your charitable donation to the foundation provides an opportunity for you to give back to the police department and provide funding for initiatives that are outside the scope of the police department’s normal budget.

As a recent example, The Paradise Valley Public Safety Foundation just successfully completed a 30-day fundraising program to purchase official uniforms for the Paradise Valley Explorer Program graduates. The Explorer Program gives young adults a thorough introduction to law enforcement, the criminal justice system, and teaches both good citizenship and patriotism.

You may want to make a tax-deductible contribution because you’ve received additional income at year end in the form of a bonus, or perhaps you’ve received a required minimum distribution from an IRA and don’t need the additional taxable income.

Of course, if your gift planning involves more complex strategies, such as donating highly appreciated real property or securities, paid up life insurance policies, or retirement accounts, please discuss these possibilities with your accountant, attorney or financial adviser.

It is easy for individuals or businesses to make a secure online donation and immediately receive a receipt for your tax records. Simply go to www.pvpublicsafetyfoundation.com.

You can also mail a check, or contact us directly to arrange a personal meeting to discuss how the foundation can fit in to your charitable plans.

Thank you, Paradise Valley, for a strong first year. You can expect The Paradise Valley Public Safety Foundation, Inc., to become an increasingly meaningful addition to our community in the years ahead.

Editor’s Note: Mike Cummiskey is the current president of the Paradise Valley Public Safety Foundation, Inc.