A Trusted Partner In Your Giving Plans
By Anne Calder, Vice President of Philanthropy, QC Community Foundation
In conversations with donors, we talk about trust. It shapes the relationships people build with the nonprofits they support and the people they turn to for important decisions. When someone is ready to make a significant charitable gift, they want those trusted voices at the table.
The conversation often includes legal and financial advisors who have helped donors build a business, prepare for retirement, or plan for their family’s future. So, it makes sense when a donor asks me, “Can I keep working with my advisor as I gift?”
Absolutely. Charitable giving is part of a larger financial picture and certain charitable solutions allow an advisor to remain involved in managing the donated assets.
At the Quad Cities Community Foundation, our Signature Investment Program is one example. Donors with charitable funds of $500,000 or more may recommend their own investment advisor to manage the fund’s assets in a separate account. The advisor works for the Community Foundation and follows its investment policy. Our team administers the fund, distributes grants, and helps donors put their charitable wishes into action. Together, we ensure donor goals are met.
If you’re thinking about a substantial gift, bring your advisor and your charitable giving professional together into the conversation early. We will start by exploring what you want your giving to accomplish. Are there organizations you hope to support year after year? Would you like to leave room to respond to changing community needs? Do you want your generosity to continue beyond your lifetime?
You don’t have to settle every detail at once. But talking with your advisors and a charitable giving professional will help you build a plan around your goals and the relationships you value.