29 Tamuz 5785

Dear Friend,

Did you know there are 118 individual Donor Advised Funds (DAF) at the Jewish Endowment Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts?

What do these fund holders know that you don’t?

They know that a donor-advised fund offers a compelling blend of flexibility, tax efficiency, and philanthropic impact, making it one of the most opular tools for charitable giving.

They know that far more than a simple savings account for donations, a DAF acts as a charitable investment account, allowing donors to contribute a variety of assets – cash, appreciated securities, or even complex assets – and receive an immediate tax deduction for the full amount.

They know that this front-loading of the tax benefit is a significant advantage, particularly for those experiencing a high-income year or planning a large gift.

They know that beyond the initial tax benefits, the true value of a DAF unfolds over time. Once assets are contributed, they are professionally managed and grow tax-free, creating an even larger pool of funds available for charitable distributions. Donors then recommend grants to their favorite qualified charities in their own timeline, without the pressure of an immediate disbursement.

They know that this separation of the donation from the granting allows for thoughtful, strategic philanthropy, enabling individuals to support causes they care about when the need is greatest, or to adapt their giving as their interests evolve.

They know that for families, a DAF can also serve as a powerful vehicle for intergenerational giving, fostering philanthropic values and engaging future generations in meaningful discussions about impact.

Ultimately, a DAF simplifies giving, maximizes charitable impact, and empowers donors to make a lasting difference in the world.

You don’t need to be wealthy to establish a Donor Advised Fund at the JEF, just someone who understands the value of planned giving to make a difference in our community and around the world.  There are 118 individuals and families, JEF Chair, Mark Gold, or Foundation staff who’d be happy to explore how you can create a DAF here at the JEF.

Now YOU know!

Shabbat Shalom,

Adam Solender