December 2024 

Dear BLARE FOUNDATION Community,

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As we approach the end of the year, we reflect on the incredible strides we’ve made together. Your support, dedication, and belief in our mission have helped us empower families and build stronger communities. Here’s what’s happening this month at the BLARE FOUNDATION.

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Welcoming Jake Grossman to the Team

We’re thrilled to introduce Jake Grossman as the newest member of our team! Jake will be assisting with the foundation's financials, bringing a wealth of expertise and a passion for supporting our mission. His skills will help us continue to grow and make a lasting impact. Please join us in giving Jake a warm welcome to the BLARE FOUNDATION family!

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Year-End Giving: The Power of QCDs

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As we close out 2024, our partner Phil Shaw from Goldstone Financial encourages you to explore Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs). These charitable rollovers from IRAs allow individuals aged 70½ and older to make tax-smart contributions directly to charities, like the BLARE FOUNDATION, while satisfying required minimum distributions (RMDs).

A QCD:

• Does not increase taxable income while meeting RMD requirements.

• Enables larger charitable gifts without impacting AGI limits.

• Helps lower future RMDs by reducing IRA balances.

If you’d like to learn more about QCDs and how you can MAKE A DIFFERENCE, feel free to consult us or click HERE for more information.

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Upcoming Event: Dine & Donate at Lazy Dog ​​​​​​​​​​​​

Mark your calendars for January 6th for our first monthly Dine & Donate of 2025 at Lazy Dog, taking place at both Northbrook and Vernon Hills locations. This community-building initiative is a delicious way to support our cause while enjoying a meal with family and friends. Here's how it works:

• Dates: Monday January 6th and the first Monday of each month 

• Details: Show the flyer digitally, a printed copy, or enter our code "TBF" for online orders. the BLARE FOUNDATION will receive 15% of your order to help further our mission.

Spread the word, and join us in supporting our goals by dining at Lazy Dog!

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Empowering Families Through Advocacy

The BLARE FOUNDATION remains dedicated to empowering families with our Free GUIDED EXPLORATION SYSTEM. This personalized service helps families build action plans to advocate for their children’s needs.

Here’s how it works:

1. Schedule an Appointment: Start with a free consultation to discuss concerns.  

2. Collaborate with an Educator: Assess your situation and develop a tailored action plan.

3. Ongoing Support: Stay connected with our team for guidance as your journey evolves.

Visit our website to learn more and schedule your consultation today!

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Volunteer Spotlight: Making a Difference

This month, we extend our deepest gratitude to our volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to advancing our mission. You are the backbone of our community. If you’re inspired to join our team, we’d love to have you!

Sign up to volunteer HERE. 

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From All of Us at the BLARE FOUNDATION
Thank you for making this year extraordinary. Your generosity and commitment have transformed lives, and we couldn’t do this without you. Let’s continue to build a stronger, more empowered community together.

Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a bright new year!

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With gratitude,
Blair Brenner
Founder, the BLARE FOUNDATION
847-507-5605
theblarefoundation@gmail.com