For Stu and Tammi Sava, seven acres of native prairie and woodlands represent years of thoughtful restoration, a true labor of love to return their land to its natural state. But their vision extended beyond the beauty of today. They wanted to ensure the land they cared for would be protected forever.
This year, their commitment was paired with an added benefit through the Illinois Gives Tax Credit.“IL Gives made it easy to support what we care about right here at home, and the tax credit was a great added benefit,” Stu shared. “The process was straightforward, from creating an account with the State of Illinois to applying for the credit.”
The Illinois Gives Tax Credit offers a 25% credit on Illinois state income taxes for charitable gifts to endowed funds, making it even more accessible for donors to create lasting community impact.The Community Foundation for McHenry County is the only qualified organization in the county offering access to the Illinois Gives Tax Credit.
Whether a donor’s passion is land conservation, education, the arts, or another cause close to home, an endowed fund provides a powerful way to create permanent support, while receiving meaningful tax benefits today.
In 2025, eleven donors, including the Savas, took advantage of the Illinois Gives Tax Credit through The Community Foundation for McHenry County. The program is available again in 2026, and The Community Foundation looks forward to partnering with more individuals, families, or businesses to establish forever funding that strengthens our community for generations to
come.
Ready to create your legacy and receive a tax credit? Contact us to explore how an endowed fund and the IL Gives Tax Credit can help you support what matters most.
Stu and Tammi Sava pictured on their property in Marengo with their dog, Cherokee.

