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What is a Donor Advised Fund and Why It might Be the Right Giving Tool for You

Build a legacy of generosity through the Defiance Area Foundation

A Donor Advised Fund (DAF) is a simple, flexible, and tax-efficient way to support the charitable causes that matter most to you. Whether you’re looking to make a one-time contribution or create a long-term giving strategy, a DAF allows you to do both—on your timeline and your terms.

What Is a Donor Advised Fund?

A Donor Advised Fund is a philanthropic fund established under the umbrella of a public charity—like the Defiance Area Foundation. Once the fund is created, you (the donor) can recommend grants from the fund to your favorite qualified nonprofit organizations over time. You receive an immediate tax deduction when you contribute to the fund, and you can distribute the charitable gifts when you’re ready.

Why Is a Donor Advised Fund Relevant to You?

DAFs are ideal for individuals, families, or businesses that:

  • Want to simplify their charitable giving and support multiple nonprofits through one fund.
  • Are seeking an immediate tax deduction but want more time to decide which charities to support.
  • Wish to involve children or family members in giving and instill values of generosity.
  • Are planning to sell a business, receive a large bonus, or experience a financial event and want to give back strategically.

Plus, a DAF through the Defiance Area Foundation allows your giving to stay local and impactful, benefiting causes right here in Defiance County and surrounding areas.

Benefits of a Donor Advised Fund:

  • Immediate tax benefits at the time of contribution
  • Personalized grantmaking to the charities you care about
  • Investment growth for your charitable dollars while you decide where to give
  • Low administrative burden—we handle the paperwork, you focus on the impact
  • Legacy planning—pass your giving values to the next generation

How to Start a Donor Advised Fund with the Defiance Area Foundation

Setting up a Donor Advised Fund with us is simple. Here’s how it works:

  1. Contact Us – We’ll meet with you to discuss your charitable goals and how a DAF fits into your giving plan.
  2. Establish Your Fund – Name your fund (e.g., The Smith Family Fund), make an initial tax-deductible gift, and decide who will advise the fund.
  3. Start Giving – Recommend grants to the nonprofits you love, whenever you’re ready.

Whether you’re giving today or planning for tomorrow, a Donor Advised Fund is a powerful tool to create lasting impact.


Ready to Start Your Fund?
Contact us today at (419) 782-3130 or chris@defianceareafoundation.org to begin your giving journey. Learn more about our funds at Defiance Area Foundation – Create A Fund.

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