A donor-advised fund is a simple, flexible way to give to the causes you care about most. You make a charitable contribution to the fund, receive an immediate tax benefit, and then recommend grants to nonprofits over time. The fund can grow through investment, allowing you to give more in the future, while the sponsoring organization handles all administrative details—making it an easy, thoughtful way to create lasting impact on your own timeline. You can even name a second generation to recommend grants beyond your lifetime if you choose.

Already have a Donor Advised Fund through a commercial or national financial institution? We want you to know that the Community Foundation can offer you more: broader services, personal attention, and a deeper connection to the nonprofits whose work is creating lasting change. We work directly with donors to help them achieve their unique philanthropic vision. While there are similarities between commercial and community foundation DAFs, it’s the differences that matter most.

If you already have a commercial DAF, transferring it to the Community Foundation is simple—and we are always happy to answer questions about making the switch.

Another key distinction is impact. With a DAF at the Community Foundation, administrative fees are reinvested locally, supporting community operations and strengthening our mission—rather than flowing to a national institution. This means your philanthropy goes even further.

If you’re not ready to transfer your fund, consider naming the Community Foundation to receive annual grants or as the beneficiary of fund assets after your lifetime. We can even establish a legacy fund in your name to carry forward the causes you care about most.

We would love the opportunity to talk with you about how the Community Foundation can help you make the greatest impact with your giving.

Considering a private foundation? Establishing a donor-advised fund at a community foundation offers nearly the same functionality as a private foundation, in that you and your family members can use either vehicle to support your favorite charitable causes and organizations.

Why establish a donor-advised fund instead of a private foundation?