FFTC Donor Advised Funds

Maximize Your Charitable Impact

Centralize your charitable giving and maximize the impact of every contribution. By opening a fund with FFTC for your charitable giving, you leave the burden of administration to us so you can focus on the joy of giving. 

What are Donor Advised Funds?

Donor advised funds are a convenient and tax-efficient charitable tool. They were created in the 1930’s as charitable vehicles managed by public charities. US tax law allows donors to contribute to their funds on their own schedule and to recommend grants to as many 501(c)3 organizations in the United States as they choose when they are ready.

How to Use Donor Advised Funds for Charitable Giving

1. Contact us. Our local team of experts can help you identify your charitable goals and guide you through the process. We can also help you decide whether an endowed or non-endowed fund would best meet your needs.

2. Open a fund. Contributions can be made with a variety of assets – cash, securities, real property and business interests – and provide you with an immediate tax deduction.

3. Choose your investments. One of the benefits of using a donor advised fund for your charitable giving is that you can select from a range of investment options, allowing your fund balance to grow tax-free until you recommend grants.

4. Give on your own schedule. Donor advised funds do not have minimum distribution requirements, so you have time to be strategic in your giving. They also can be used for long-term and legacy planning, providing you the opportunity to include family members or others in decision making.

Why FFTC Donor Advised Funds?

By choosing your local nonprofit community foundation, you can take advantage of local knowledge and resources to make an even greater impact:

Local Guidance. FFTC’s Charlotte-based experts have decades of experience helping individuals and families throughout our region to chart their own unique paths, from clarifying charitable intent to managing grant programs.

Community Impact. By giving through FFTC, you are able to support your own favorite causes while simultaneously addressing regional needs and supporting community initiatives.

Education and Networking. FFTC's Center for Personal Philanthropy offers programming workshops and events and provides opportunities to connect with other charitable-minded individuals.

FFTC Donor Advised Fund v. Private Foundation

FFTC Donor Advised Funds are a cost-effective and tax-efficient alternative to private foundations, offering a convenient way to manage your giving to nonprofits throughout the nation.

If you already have a new or established private foundation, FFTC Custom Services can assist with strategic, grantmaking and governance support.

FFTC Donor Advised Funds in Action