The heart of our giving community
Hundreds of local individuals and families partner with the Community Foundation to give with more ease and more impact. We personal guidance, ways to learn and connect, support involving your family, and plans that carry your generosity forward.
Why individuals and families work with us
Three ways to get started
Give now
Open a fund today and start recommending grants to the causes you care about.
Give later
Include a gift in your will, trust, or retirement plan to create or grow a fund for the future.
Explore planned giving →
Get guidance
Work one-on-one with a Philanthropic Advisor to clarify your goals and plan your giving.
Meet our advisors →
Situations we often help with
Life changes can be good moments to plan or rethink your giving. Here are a few we see often.
A year with unusually high income
A bonus, a business sale, or a large capital gain can mean a higher tax bill. Contributing to a donor advised fund in that year gives you the deduction now, while you take your time deciding which organizations to support.
Turning 70½ or taking required distributions
Once you reach 70½, you can give directly from your IRA through a qualified charitable distribution. At 73 and older, these gifts can count toward your required minimum distribution. QCDs can go to many of our funds, but not to donor advised funds.
Receiving an inheritance
Many people use part of an inheritance to start a fund in a loved one’s name, carrying on their values and generosity. We can help you think through your options and how they fit with your own plans.
Wanting to involve your children
You can name family members as advisors on your fund and plan who will guide it in the future. Our 21/64-certified advisors can lead family meetings and values workshops, help new advisors learn the giving process, and offer practical tips for giving together.
Selling a business or property
If you are planning to sell a business, real estate or another asset that has grown in value, giving part of it to a charitable fund before the sale may reduce your capital gains tax and give you a charitable deduction.
Timing matters, so talk with us and your advisors early. See the assets we accept
Christine and John Thomasson
Investing in youth and families of Louisa and Fluvanna Counties.
Read the article →
Elizabeth Dolan Wright
Engaging children in service and philanthropy at a young age.
Read her story →
Connect With An Expert
We’re here to help you make an impact. Let’s connect and explore the possibilities.