Additional contributions can be added to the endowment fund to increase the principal balance. Those additional contributions and investment earnings are used to grow the fund and provide the beneficiary with ongoing financial support. A percentage of the profits is distributed annually based on the intentions of the fund creator. Gifts to the endowment may be given as immediate gifts such as cash, real estate, stocks, and bonds – or in the form of future gifts through wills and bequests or as a designated beneficiary of a life insurance plan, retirement plan, or IRA.