1 - Any qualified charitable organization that aligns with his values, and accepts donations of real estate.2 - If he donates the land to a qualified organization he wouldn't realize gain or loss on disposal, instead he'd get a charitable contribution deduction for the fair market value of the land. 

As @Cody L. just mentioned, you could be contributing 44k into a project making you much MUCH more on the back end.However, the "Wholesale" is vital if you establish a pipeline of leads.

It does require self-employment activity, but has a lot of advantages: Compared to an IRA, Solo 401k contributions limits are roughly ten times higher.There is no custodial requirement for the 401k.You don't need the additional expense and administration of an LLC to have checkbook control.There is a built in-Roth component whereas IRAs are either traditional or Roth, not both.A spouse can also participate in the same Solo 401k plan.The Solo 401k has additional tax benefits over an IRA when investing into real estate using leverage.The penalties for prohibited transactions are less severe, though it's best not to utilize this benefit :)

Now is the time to seriously sit down and do some research as I have a new job which gives me a lot of downtime to study real estate and contribute to this wonderful community.

That is because the owners typically contribute thousands of dollars worth a "sweat equity" -mostly site prep and painting.There is a shockingly high demand for short and intermediate term single rooms with bath. 

If the taxes haven't been paid for the year, the bill will be paid at the closing table (generally), with each party contributing their pro-rated amount.

Be charitable on your time, run your rental business separately.  

I am looking forward to learning and contributing here on the forums. 

I was hoping the community could provide some guidance on what the process typically entails when contributing capital and any steps they've taken to protect their investment.

So many dedicated and active members here contributing, educating, helping, and MAKING DEALS HAPPEN!!