As founder of The Advise Us Fund, I recognize the power of giving. Since starting this nonprofit organization, I’ve seen firsthand that philanthropy makes our communities stronger by helping those in need and supporting causes that are closest to our hearts. We are all motivated by these passions, and The Advise Us Fund is how I exhibit what’s closest to my heart: philanthropy.
Giving Tuesday is an opportunity for us all to be called into action and give back to our communities. We do so by giving to the philanthropic causes that make a difference in our lives. As a founder of a charity that serves other charities and causes, I find it fulfilling to see the act of giving recognized. Without it, no charity would exist. If you are involved in making charities thrive, whether by supporting them, guiding gift-giving clients, or stewarding the organizations, take time today to reflect and give thanks for giving and our culture of giving.
TO DONORS who are thinking about your giving, take advantage of our Charity Navigator search feature on our evaluate charities page. Or go directly to Charity Navigator or GuideStar to review the charities you are considering to support. It is worth the time to know more about what you are supporting as there are lots of choices and limited resources.
TO FINANCIAL PROFESSIONALS, please know that your role in the philanthropic world is essential. The tools available to donors today are the most sophisticated and complex we have ever seen. Your guidance and stewardship of your client’s giving spirit often provides the spark that makes a charitable gift a reality.
TO NONPROFIT PROFESSIONALS who are lucky enough to be working for one of the many great charities that help change and save lives in your community: Thank you! Your commitment and sacrifice are essential in fulfilling the mission of your organization. I hope today reinforces, deep in your heart, the feeling of satisfaction from making a difference in the world through your work.
As for those of us at The Advise Us Fund, we continue to focus on helping people create donor-advised funds – a tax-wise and strategic way to simplify giving and support charitable organizations from the smallest start-ups to large educational institutions. Through the inspired generosity of those taking advantage of this charitable giving tool, the Advise Us Fund has given more than $52,000 to 67 nonprofits. Thank you to all of my colleagues for their incredible work on behalf of the donors, charities and advisors we serve. I am extremely grateful.
By offering tax-wise and strategic philanthropic planning, our goal is to help people maximize yet simplify their charitable giving. But the ultimate goal is cementing the success of charitable organizations that do such important work in our communities. Days like Giving Tuesday inspire us to accomplish that goal.
