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Giving F.A.Q.

Donors have different values, goals and areas of interest. We can be your partners in philanthropy planning. This resource may be helpful in laying out your thinking.

What is a community foundation? Learn More

A community foundation is a charitable organization created by and for a community of people. Community foundations are leaders in promoting and encouraging philanthropy and in addressing issues that improve the quality of life in a specific geographic area. Unlike other foundations with assets coming from a single source and a purpose defined by a family or business, a community foundation holds a variety of funds received from civic-minded people to meet a wide range of community needs now and in the future.

Is my gift tax-deductible?

Yes, the foundation is a 501 (c)(3) organization. Outright gifts to the foundation generate a full income-tax charitable deduction. Outright gifts of long-term appreciated securities are deductible at fair market value, with no recognition of capital gains — a great tax benefit!

Why should I establish a fund with the community foundation?

A community foundation offers those who wish to give back the opportunity to establish a charitable fund that achieves a positive impact. Our different funds can help you support the causes you care about most without having to manage the complexities of setting up your own foundation. We offer local knowledge, personal service, flexibility, tax advantages, long-term stability, convenience, credibility, and expertise in investment management and grantmaking. We provide the security that the donor, or the person in whose name the fund is established, will be honored forever.

If you want to create a meaningful legacy for yourself and family, consider establishing a fund with us. Learn More. 

What should I consider before establishing a fund?

These steps and questions can help guide your planning.

Step 1: Reflect On Your Values

  • What are your family’s giving traditions, and how do they inform what matters to you?
  • What values do you want to pass on to your children?
  • Who are your charitable role models, and what do you admire about their giving?
  • How do you want to be remembered by your family and your community?
  • Do you want your giving to inspire others, or would you be more comfortable with keeping your charitable gifts anonymous?

Step 2: Consider how your philanthropy fits into your overall financial planning.

  • What timing works for you? Giving now? Giving from your estate? Some of each?
  • Have you decided how to divide your resources between your loved ones and the charitable legacy you want to leave?
  • Have you discussed your plans with your family / financial advisors?

Step 3: Think about the areas of interest that you care most about.

  • What issues and causes are you most passionate about?
  • Where do you most want to have an impact? Locally? More broadly? Both?
  • How do you want to prioritize these causes / locales?
  • How do you want to measure the impact of your giving?

Step 4: Learn more about the options for structuring your philanthropy.

Step 5: Decide how you want to manage your philanthropic activities.

  • How hands-on do you want to be?
  • Do you receive requests from so many charities that it is a challenge to focus on your goals and priorities?
  • Do you want to assess needs and nonprofit effectiveness for yourself? Or would it be helpful to take advantage of others’ expertise?
  • How actively involved do you want to be in decisions about grants?
  • Do you want your children involved in decisions about grantmaking? Or will you want them to be in the future?
  • Do you have a family foundation that has become a chore to manage?

No matter what considerations and answers came up for you, we can help.

Our staff can work with you to develop a philanthropic blue print that is tailored to your situation and priorities. We can help you decide if / when to set up a fund, leave a bequest, or use more than one option. In addition, we can consult with you / your financial advisor about which kinds of assets align with your vision.

Let us be your resource in realizing your philanthropic goals. Contact Monika Collins.

How do I involve my children/family?

We welcome the opportunity to work with families! If you wish to establish a fund there are many ways to involve your children and grandchildren. Our philanthropic services staff will be happy to work with you to explore opportunities and create a plan with you.

What is the foundation's investment strategy? Learn More

Read more about our investments here, or contact our CFO, Laura DeFlavia to learn more.

Endowed Funds

What’s an endowed fund?

An endowment fund is a permanent, self-sustaining source of funding. Endowment assets are invested. Each year, a portion of the value of the fund is paid out to support the fund’s purpose, and any additional earnings are reinvested. In this way, an endowment fund can grow and provide support for its designated purpose forever. When you establish an endowment fund, you establish your legacy.

What can I do with an endowed fund at the foundation?

In most cases, you can support any charitable cause or organization you choose — in Delaware County or around the world –– through an endowed fund. Many types of endowed funds exist, including donor advised, scholarship and designated funds.

Why should I put my charitable dollars in an endowed fund?

When you put charitable dollars in an endowed fund, they grow with the market, like any investment. Over the past five years, the foundation’s portfolio has consistently outperformed the benchmark against which we measure ourselves.

What does it take to start an endowed fund at the foundation?

You can create an endowed fund with just $10,000 and a signed fund agreement (Scholarship funds require $50,000). Our goal is to help you create a customized plan to achieve your unique charitable goals, realize tax benefits, and maximize impact.

Can my financial advisor or estate planner be involved?

Yes, we work very closely with our clients’ advisors and often partner for the long term. We always recommend that you consult your professional advisor for any planned gift to determine the best option. We are happy to be a philanthropic partner working with you and your advisor. Learn more about how we work with professional advisors.

Who should I contact with questions? Contact Us

Please email Monika Collins, VP for Advancement & Philanthropic Services or call her at 610-744-1015 to learn more.