I'll never forget the time I stepped down from a junior board position. It was a difficult decision, because I supported the charity's mission. Yet fundraising wasn't my area of genius, and my time was better spent with family. Have you ever stepped away from a meaningful cause, instead opting to financially support their mission?

Your motives for giving may differ from mine, but you care deeply about using your gifts to benefit others. Below are five ways to maximize your financial charitable contributions.

1. Make non-cash gifts (including stock) part of your giving plan

Cash gifts are great and can be helpful to non-profits. However, there are other for details).