Key Questions About Donor-Advised Funds Ignored in New Study
The Giving USA Foundation missed an opportunity to uncover the impact of the explosive growth of the funds, like whether charities that provide direct services and advocacy are losing out.
By Alan M. Cantor
Reporter
A Power Imbalance Gets in the Way of Setting Smart Policy on Donor-Advised Funds
Why charities aren’t able to get their voices heard as Congress is asked to impose payout rules on the fastest-growing type of philanthropic fund.
By Alan M. Cantor
Reporter
Donor-Advised-Fund Payout Numbers Don’t Add Up
Double counting is common among donor-advised-fund sponsors, and transferring money from one such account to another is considered a donation.
By Alan M. Cantor
Reporter
‘Pay It Forward Fund’ Sends Wrong Message to Donors
The Minneapolis Foundation’s fundraising effort to build a grant pot for use in 50 years distracts donors from dealing with the today’s problems.
By Alan M. Cantor
Reporter
Fidelity Charitable’s Executive Pay Strategy Shows Arrogance — and an IRS Flaw
Paying a third party to compensate its top leaders is a blatantly transparent attempt by the nonprofit to avoid disclosure and a sign of the organization’s Wall Street culture.
By Alan M. Cantor
Reporter
Strings on Donor-Advised Funds Are Making Charity Supporters Angry
Because the funds are so popular, nonprofits are spending more and more time soothing people angered by all the restrictions.
By Alan M. Cantor
Reporter
Is It Immoral for Charities to Push ‘Amazon Smile’?
Amazon’s practices seem at odds with the goals of many charities, so they shouldn’t help the company sell its wares.
By Alan M. Cantor
Reporter
Donor-Advised Funds Let Wall Street Steer Charitable Donations
Ever more money is being warehoused in these funds instead of going directly to charities, which are struggling with growing needs.
By Alan M. Cantor
Reporter
Charity Navigator’s Superficial Ratings Miss Major Flaws in Charities
One example is its praise of the American Endowment Foundation, an organization run largely by family members that has a cozy relationship with investors who steer donations its way.
By Alan M. Cantor
Reporter
Donor-Advised Funds Are Booming, but Nonprofits See Little Benefit
Congress should require at least 20 percent of fund assets to be distributed each year—or at least allow more generous deductions for certain gifts.
By Alan M. Cantor
Reporter