The word cryptocurrency strikes fear and confusion in the hearts of most people these days. We ask things like: Is it real? If so, WHAT is it? Is it risky? Why is this even a thing? I felt the same way for a long time – until I had to…

Gorillas are Bigger Than They Appear. Earlier this year I wrote an article entitled “Donor Advised Funds: Your $85 Billion Dollar Best Friend”. It reviewed the data behind the multi-billion dollar donor-advised fund business. Well, it’s a new year and, frankly, Donor Advised Funds are bigger now than I think…

Originally posted November 1, 2018 | Updated September, 2023 ‘Tis The Season Over the past few years, donors have gotten the hang of using the Qualified Charitable Distribution to their great advantage. Charities are starting to promote it and Advisors are realizing the incredible tax benefits for their clients. This…

Over the years I’ve received numerous calls and e-mails from advisors and development officers  with the same question. It goes like this. “I am working with a business executive who has a lot of stock options. Can she donate those to charity?” The answer is “usually no”, but they still…

My Dearest Readers, I hope you will indulge me as this “first anniversary” edition takes on a different, more philosophical and reflective tone. I hope it inspires you to consider what “significance” means to you. A Look Forward + Back As August draws to a close, our thoughts drift towards…

These days it’s not enough to just sell a good product. You must sell a good product that also does good. Americans are becoming ever more conscious of how they spend their money. We aren’t just concerned with what we purchase, but rather how those purchases affect the world. We want the companies…

Are you a fundraiser who has ever felt burnt out and that you’ll never meet the ever-growing goals set for you? If so, you’re not alone. Many of us have felt this way from time to time and there is one big reason for it and it can’t be solved…

Everywhere I turn people are talking about Donor Advised Funds. They’ve been popular for several years, but lately they’re really hitting their stride. The recent tax law changes have raised a renewed interest in these powerful creatures due to the “bunching” strategy discussed in my January article. People are considering…

Hello again, friends! In this 2-part series, we are tackling the new tax changes and what they mean for charitable giving. In the last article, we looked at itemized vs. standard deductions, “bunching”, and the Qualified Charitable Distribution. If you haven’t yet read Volume 1, I highly encourage you to…