Your generosity can inspire learners of all ages to discover how science is for everyone, everywhere—in the environment we live in, in the technology we hold in our hands, and in the molecular fabric we have in our bodies.

By donating to COSI, you ensure more people in our community have access to science education, learning, and fun!

The following information is educational, not legal or tax advice. Tax results depend on individual circumstances and current law. Please consult your attorney, tax professional, or financial advisor.

Donor Advised Fund (DAF)

Put Your Donor Advised Fund to Work for Science

A Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) is a philanthropic investment account created to support the causes you care about. You can contribute cash, securities, or other assets to your DAF and be eligible to receive an immediate tax deduction in the year you give. Unlike direct donations, DAF contributions grow tax-free over time, allowing you to increase your impact and recommend grants to COSI.

Many donor-advised fund sponsors allow you to name one or more successor beneficiaries or charitable organizations to receive the fund’s remaining balance after your lifetime. Contact your fund administrator to learn about the options available through your fund. If you name COSI to receive all or part of the remaining balance, please let us know. We would be pleased to welcome you to the Pendulum Society.

If you are ready to recommend a grant to COSI through your DAF, you can do so here.
Suggested Language: Please direct this grant to COSI for unrestricted mission support, with preference for access, youth STEAM learning, workforce development and community-based science engagement.
COSI’s Legal Name: Franklin County Historical Society, dba COSI | EIN: 31-4383802

For more information contact Keith Koppmeier at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | 614.629.3143.

Qualified Charitable Distributions

Turn Your IRA into a Catalyst for Discovery

If you are age 70½ or older, a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) may be a tax-efficient way to support COSI directly from your IRA. Simply ask your IRA administrator to transfer your gift directly to COSI.

When a QCD meets IRS requirements, the distribution is generally excluded from taxable income and may count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD), if applicable. Because the gift is excluded from income rather than claimed as a charitable deduction, a QCD may provide tax advantages even if you do not itemize deductions.

Most importantly, your generosity helps inspire curiosity, broaden access to science education, and prepare the next generation of problem-solvers and innovators.

Gifts of Stocks

Turn Your Investments into Inspiration

A gift of appreciated stocks, mutual funds, or bonds can be a powerful way to support COSI while potentially providing significant tax advantages.

When you donate appreciated securities directly to COSI, you may reduce or even avoid capital gains tax on the appreciation while making a meaningful investment in science learning and exploration. For many donors, giving appreciated assets can be one of the most tax-efficient ways to support the causes they care about.

Your gift helps COSI create inspiring experiences that spark curiosity, foster lifelong learning, and empower the next generation of innovators, creators, and problem-solvers.

Appreciated securities may also be used in charitable planning strategies, including charitable gift annuities that can provide income for life while supporting COSI's mission.

Legacy Giving

Keep Science Everywhere, and for Everyone

A planned gift to COSI is more than a future contribution. It is a lasting promise that curiosity, discovery, and science learning will remain within reach for learners of all ages for generations to come. With thoughtful planning, your gift may also provide meaningful financial benefits for you and your loved ones.

COSI’s Pendulum Society celebrates supporters who include COSI in their estate plans. Their generosity creates an enduring foundation for bold ideas, unforgettable STEAM experiences, and greater access to science for learners of every age and background.

If you believe every person deserves the opportunity to experience the wonder of science, we invite you to make that belief part of your legacy through a planned gift and membership in the Pendulum Society. If COSI is already included in your plans, please let us know so we may personally thank you and honor the extraordinary impact of your generosity.

If you have any questions during your online giving experience, please call 614-629-3239 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. We will gladly respond as soon as possible.

Thank you in advance for your generosity!