As someone who cares deeply about our community, you already understand how important charitable giving is to improve the quality of life. Every year, Americans give nearly 2% of our nation’s GDP to charitable causes—a remarkable level of generosity that supports more than a million nonprofits across the country. At the same time, trust has become one of the most important factors donors consider when deciding where to give. We are honored that so many of you place your confidence in the Foundation to steward philanthropy with care and integrity.
The Foundation is committed to understanding the needs of our community and sharing that information with you and your clients to help ensure that charitable dollars are invested where they can do the greatest good. Some needs are urgent, such as immediate assistance in response to a crisis. Other needs are long-term, such as building educational opportunities, strengthening health and human services, or expanding economic stability. Because the community’s needs evolve over time, the Foundation is focused on identifying what matters most at any given moment and helping you ensure that your generosity has a meaningful impact both immediately and across generations.
For donors aged 70½ and older, one of the most effective and tax-savvy charitable giving tools available is the Qualified Charitable Distribution, or QCD. A QCD allows you to direct up to $108,000 in 2025 from your IRA to a qualified public charity—bypassing taxable income. If you are already taking required minimum distributions (RMDs), a QCD will count toward that amount without increasing your adjusted gross income, which can be especially helpful for managing tax brackets, Medicare IRMAA surcharges, and other income-related considerations.
QCDs cannot be directed to Donor Advised Funds. So, many donors choose to use their DAFs to support their favorite nonprofits through regular annual gifts, and then use their QCDs to support an Unrestricted Fund at the Foundation. An unrestricted fund enables the Foundation’s board and staff to deploy dollars toward the most pressing and emerging needs right here at home. It is one of the most powerful ways to support your community, both now and in the future.
Looking ahead, with new tax laws taking effect in 2026, QCDs may become even more valuable.
No matter which tools you use—a DAF, a QCD to an unrestricted fund, or other giving strategies—the Foundation is here to support you. Please reach out anytime. We are honored to partner with you to ensure your generosity continues to make a meaningful difference in the community we all love.