Changing the World with Charitable Giving
By: Susan Shackelford

These days, many people are finding themselves discouraged. Over the last few years, we lived through
a pandemic. As a result, we have seen company shutdowns, small business closures, job losses, and
significant economic fallout. The needs of those around us have become greater, and charities have
become substantially more dependent on the generosity and kindness of their donors. We all want to
see change, but where do we start?

Consider Charitable Giving

In the US alone, there are nearly two million not–for–profit organizations and charities. According to
Define Financial, over 80% of all donations to charities and nonprofit organizations in the US come from
individuals. That means the majority of those giving are individuals and families, not corporations. Not
only does charitable giving benefit the organization, but when families decide to give together, it can
have a lasting effect on the strength of the family unit.

Transferring Your Values

When you have children, you wonder who they will become. Will they be kind, caring, successful, and
generous? As parents, you are given the opportunity to instill in your kids the values and inspiration
necessary to become an individual who cares for the needs of others.
When giving is part of your family culture, your children view the world in a more positive way. Including
your family in your giving plans provides them insight into what your values are and the impact giving
generously has in your community. As a family, how do you want to see your wealth used?

Making a Plan

Plan a monthly meeting with your family to address the following questions:

• What are we passionate about?
• What needs do we want to see addressed?

Use this conversation to decide where you want to place your giving. Give each family member a turn to
decide where your donations will go each month. Make the holiday season a time to give extra. Take it
to the next level and get involved. The most beneficial thing you can do as a family is to find a way to
personally participate in the organization. Not only are you taking the steps to model your values to your children, but you get to spend fun, quality time together.

Establishing a Donor Advised Fund

Time to get the ball rolling! Setting up a Donor Advised Fund (DAF) is a great way to prepare for your
charitable giving. A DAF is a giving account that is established and administered by a public charity. DAFs
are created to help organizations, families, and individuals manage their charitable donations.
DAFs can have substantial financial benefits. For example, you can donate appreciated stocks and,
thereby, avoid capital gains taxes. Additionally, depending on your specific situation, the gift may be
deductible.

Establishing a DAF requires planning and careful implementation, so meeting with your financial advisor
is the best way to begin. They can review investments to ensure this strategy will be the best fit for you
and your family. From this review, they can help you determine what donation amount would make an
impact.

Once the DAF is established, your wealth management advisors will take over. Their job is to ensure that
your proposed gifting does not interfere with other important goals you have set. They will be there
each step of the way to assist you and your family with your contributions.

Next Steps
At KEB, we have dedicated the last 90 years to helping communities grow by sharing time and resources.
Our goal is to make a measurable difference in the communities where KEB families live and work.
Please reach out to us to begin the process of creating your Donor Advised Fund. We believe giving
generously will have a huge impact on our communities and families. Let us help you help others.