By Don Stichter

Editor’s Note: Dan Stichter is a board member of the Kosciusko County Community Foundation. He and his family established a Donor Advised Fund at the community foundation, which enables Dan and his wife, Emily, to share the joy of giving and to practice philanthropy with their children.

In an era where young people and their families seek ways to make a positive impact on their communities, philanthropic giving has become an increasingly popular avenue for creating meaningful change. As good stewards of their financial resources, a key priority is the maximization of charitable donations while reaping the timing and impact of tax benefits along the way.

This is where donor advised funds come into play, offering a powerful tool that combines the joy of giving with strategic philanthropy. The Kosciusko County Community Foundation not only provides an efficient platform for philanthropy but also caters specifically to the needs and aspirations of various generations, both those just starting out and those continuing to leave a legacy.

The Power of Donor Advised Funds

Donor advised funds have emerged as a dynamic and effective way to engage in philanthropy. DAFs allow individuals and families to contribute assets, such as cash, stocks, or real estate, to a charitable account, which then grows tax-free. One of the key advantages of DAFs is the ability to take an immediate tax deduction upon making the contribution, enabling donors to minimize their tax burden while maximizing their giving potential.

The donor retains the ability to recommend how the funds are distributed, allowing for personalized giving strategies aligned with their values, interests, and convictions. This versatility enables young families to engage their children in the giving process, instilling the importance of philanthropy and empowering the next generation to become compassionate and socially responsible citizens.

The Kosciusko County Community Foundation’s Commitment To Young Families

The Kosciusko County Community Foundation stands out as a shining example of an organization dedicated to supporting young people and their families in their philanthropic journeys. By providing a range of donor advised fund services tailored to meet this demographic, the foundation demonstrates a deep understanding of the desire to give back for donors both young and old.

First and foremost, the Kosciusko County Community Foundation simplifies the process of establishing and managing a DAF, making it accessible to busy young families. With their user-friendly online platform and dedicated staff, the foundation offers guidance and support every step of the way. By alleviating administrative burdens, the foundation empowers young families to focus on their charitable objectives and witness the impact of their giving firsthand.

Tax Advantages And Long-Term Impact

Apart from the inherent joy of giving, young families also appreciate the tax advantages that DAFs offer. By leveraging these funds strategically, families can optimize their tax deductions while supporting causes close to their hearts. This financial incentive encourages more substantial contributions, leading to a multiplier effect on the resources available for charitable endeavors.

The long-term impact of young families’ involvement in DAFs cannot be overstated. By engaging in philanthropy early on, families instill a sense of civic responsibility and empathy in their children. This hands-on experience shapes the next generation’s values, empowering them to become socially conscious individuals committed to creating a better community and world.

The Kosciusko County Community Foundation ensures that these transformative experiences become an integral part of the community’s fabric. I have seen first-hand the benefits of gifts both large and small from DAFs and encourage anyone interested to speak with the Kosciusko County Community Foundation about setting up a DAF today.