The Dayton Foundation helps people donate in ways that works best for them

When one wants to start incorporating charitable giving into their current and future financial plans, it can be hard to know where to start. What’s the best way to do so, both for nonprofits and for tax bills? What organizations are worth donating to? And where can assistance be found?

The Dayton Foundation, one of the largest and oldest community foundations in the country, is ready to help. The foundation, which was established more than 100 years ago, offers a variety of products and services to help you donate and assist other organizations.

One of those products is a donor-advised fund.

“The best way I describe it to people is it’s like a charitable piggy bank,” says Michelle Lovely, senior vice president of Development and Donor Services at The Dayton Foundation. “You get an immediate tax deduction when you contribute to a donor-advised fund But then… you can give grants out at a later date. So the beauty of a donor-advised fund is you can time your charitable deductions and your gifts to the charities of your choice, you can make that deduction when it’s most meaningful for you. Put the money in your fund now and spend it out later.”

Lovely says it’s also a great way to use assets you’re going to need to spend in the most tax-efficient way possible.

“You can give appreciated stock, which helps your tax adviser because you’re able to use an appreciated asset that maybe your adviser hasn’t been able to sell or get out of your portfolio because of the capital gains you would have to pay if you sold it. By giving it to your charitable fund, you don’t pay that capital gains tax,” she says.

Many organizations offer donor-advised funds, but there are several benefits to creating a fund through The Dayton Foundation, including personalized fund management; live, local assistance; and knowledge of local, national and international nonprofits.

The foundation offers a variety of fund options, including scholarship or designated funds, as well as an uninvested fund that has no fees called the Charitable Checking Account Service.

“It’s completely free with no minimum fund balance, and donors can recommend grants as small as $15. Individuals, families and organizations of all giving levels love this service for its ease of use and flexibility,” says Lovely. “The best way I tell people is that we have a place for everyone who wants to help others through charitable giving.”

With these options, the donor can choose how the money is donated. They can pick specific nonprofits or direct funds toward certain causes. Donations can be sent out to organizations on a reoccurring basis or at the discretion of the donor. The foundation is set up to assist donors with whatever option works best for them.

“Community foundations are a one-stop shop for charitable giving. It’s not just a donor-advised fund. There are all different kinds of products. We can help you facilitate your current giving and help you plan for your family’s charitable legacy,” says Lovely. “No matter where you are in life, The Dayton Foundation is here to help you help.”