As tax laws and market dynamics continue to shift, it is important for attorneys, CPAs, and financial advisors to be aware of two increasingly distinct groups of donors. On one hand, the high federal estate tax exemption and new restrictions on itemizing charitable deductions are creating unique opportunities for your clients whose assets exceed $30 million. On the other hand,
If you’re like many donors, the weeks leading up to tax deadlines tend to bring charitable giving into sharper focus. You may have finalized contributions, gathered documentation, or had conversations with your CPA about how your giving fits into your overall financial plan. After the deadline has passed, it’s tempting to move on and not revisit these decisions until later
Many people want to be thoughtful in their charitable giving, but that doesn’t always make the process easy. In fact, one of the most common challenges donors face is simply feeling confident in their decisions. With so many worthy organizations, urgent needs, and compelling opportunities, it can be difficult to know where to start—or how to know if you’re making
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
March is Women’s History Month, and it’s a great time to share information about the increasing role of women in philanthropy. Sometimes this shift happens gradually—a daughter becomes more involved in conversations about family giving, or a spouse who once deferred decisions begins shaping philanthropic priorities more directly. In other cases, the transition is sudden and deeply personal, such as
It’s tax season, which means it’s a terrific time to ensure that your charitable giving goals are on track and here are four items to discuss with your CPA. New rules for itemizing charitable deductions As in prior years, charitable contributions are deductible only if you itemize your deductions. If your total itemized deductions do not exceed the standard deduction,
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
[ad_1] Nonprofits are vital to building healthy communities and drawing public attention to important issues. This week we would like to highlight the following nonprofit funds and show our support for being the voice of the people it serves. To show your support too please check out the Gifting Grinnell Virtual Auction happening now at ahrensfamilyfoundation.org/gifting-grinnell-program. Lots of great items