The Medieval Japanese Studies Foundation is a not-for-profit (102)(a)(5) charitable Foundation incorporated in the State of New York, July 1999, with U.S. tax-exemption under (501)(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; (EIN) 13-4078345. The purpose of the Foundation is to support the activities and programs of the Institute for Medieval Japanese Studies in New York, and the Center for the Study of Women, Buddhism and Culture in Kyoto, as well as to fund individual and collaborative research elsewhere on all aspects of pre-nineteenth-century Japanese civilization (focused primarily on the neglected medieval Kamakura and Muromachi periods, 1185-1600). The Foundation currently is supporting mainly research projects related to the Imperial Buddhist Convents of Kyoto and Nara. The Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications for funds. It does, however, welcome inquiries where there is the opportunity for collaboration on projects directly related to its main missions.

Gifts of dollar checks or yen bank transfers are the easiest way for you to become a patron. Appreciated Securities (Stock) can bring the donor greater tax savings than gifts of cash by offering the donor two significant advantages: a) you avoid paying capital gains on the increased value of the stock, and b) you receive a charitable deduction for the full fair market value of the stock when the gift is made. Gifts of appreciated securities are generally deductible up to a maximum of 30% of your adjusted gross income. Anything more can usually be carried forward and deducted over a maximum of five subsequent years, subject to certain limitations. (Contact your accountant and/or lawyer for laws specific to your philanthropic intent.) Including the Medieval Japanese Studies Foundation in your will is an effective way to make a meaningful long-lasting gift that might not be possible during your lifetime. A bequest through a donor's will is the simplest form of planned gift where gift and estate taxes are reduced or avoided.

If you are currently employed, keep in mind that whether you give cash or securities, some employers have matching gift programs, which may increase your gift, although they do not increase your charitable deduction. Complete and return your company's matching gift form with your gift.

Your role as patron is as vital to us as the role of the scholars, students and curator-nuns whose work we support. Please join us as a patron and make a permanent difference.

For further information on procedure please contact Barbara Ruch in New York at (212-854-7403; bruch@columbia.edu).