Even if you are new to charitable giving, you’ve likely discovered that there’s no single “right” way to approach making a difference. That’s not only normal—it’s a strength! Recent research reinforces what many donors already know intuitively: generosity looks different for everyone. Indeed, more than 80% of Americans report giving in some form, whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or civic
Throughout your career, you will likely help dozens of clients navigate the intersection of philanthropy and estate planning. While the focus is often on the creation of donor-advised funds or charitable remainder trusts, an increasingly relevant question for many advisors is: What happens to these assets in the event of a divorce? Given the rising importance of specialized roles in
Charitable lead trusts (CLTs) are highly effective tools for specific client situations, particularly when balancing significant charitable intent with tax-efficient wealth transfer. The community foundation frequently partners with advisors to establish donor-advised funds (DAFs) as the income beneficiary of a client’s Charitable Lead Annuity Trust (CLAT). Recent developments have brought renewed attention to the flexibility of these vehicles: IRS Private
While the tax law changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act are familiar territory for you, the recent tax season has likely brought these shifts to the forefront for many of your clients. While you have been evaluating these impacts for months, many clients are seeing the real-world results on their returns for the first time, making this an
As attorneys, CPAs, and financial advisors, you’ve no doubt noticed that financial publications’ coverage of donor-advised funds is increasing. This is no surprise, considering that these popular vehicles can help your clients achieve both their financial and philanthropic goals. A donor-advised fund at the community foundation is not only useful as a standalone tool, but even more importantly, it can
Three fundamental concepts are important to gaining a better understanding of how donor-advised funds work at the community foundation. Many options are available at GPCF. It’s important to note that a donor-advised fund is just one of many types of funds that an individual, family, or business can establish with GPCF. You’re likely more aware of donor-advised funds than other
The end of 2025 brought a whirlwind of charitable planning activity since many taxpayers wanted to maximize the tax benefits of their charitable donations before the 0.5% “floor” and 35% “cap” on charitable deductions kicked in on January 1, 2026. Donor-advised funds remain a highly relevant and strategic tool for your clients. Fundamentally, regardless of tax benefits, your clients’ charitable
A new year is in full swing, but you’ve still got plenty of time to consider your charitable impact and how you’d like to make a difference in 2026. A great way to do that is to reflect on the difference you’ve already made through the years. Many people are drawn to charitable giving and decide to establish a fund