Donor Advised Fund

A donor advised fund (DAF), which is like a charitable savings account, gives you the flexibility to recommend how much and how often money is granted to Riley Children's Foundation and other charities.

You transfer cash or other assets to a tax-exempt sponsoring organization such as a public foundation. You can then recommend—but not direct—how much and how often money is granted. In addition, you avoid the cost and complexities of managing a private foundation.

In return, you qualify for a federal income tax charitable deduction at the time you contribute to the account. This also allows for a centralized giving and record-keeping system in one location.

An Example of How It Works

Happy family Joe and Laura want to give back to their hometown by putting their money where it will do the most good. They establish a $25,000 donor advised fund with a community foundation.

The couple receives a federal income tax charitable deduction for the amount of the gift. They also get all the time they need to decide which charities to support.

After researching community needs with the foundation’s staff, Joe and Laura recommend grants for Riley Children’s Foundation (which they’ve supported for years) and the Animal Rescue League. The foundation presents the charities with checks from the Megan Fund, which Joe and Laura named in honor of their daughter. Joe and Laura are delighted to start this personal legacy of giving.

Next Steps

  1. Evaluate a sponsoring organization to make sure it supports your interests, values and the type of asset you are considering as a funding source.
  2. Get to know the organization's policies and procedures-from minimum contributions to administrative fees. Each organization handles these details differently.
  3. Contact Alexandra Beach, J.D. at 317-624-2675 or ABeach@RileyKids.org to discuss using donor advised funds to support Riley Children’s Foundation and our mission.
  4. Seek the advice of your financial or legal advisor.
  5. If you include Riley Children’s Foundation in your plans, please use our legal name and federal tax ID.

Legal Name: James Whitcomb Riley Memorial Association, Inc. d/b/a Riley Children's Endowment
Address: 500 N. Meridian Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Federal Tax ID Number: 35-0868147

Support What Matters

Learn more about donor advised funds. View and download the FREE guide One-Stop Giving: The Convenience and Simplicity of Donor Advised Funds.

View My Guide

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