How to Start Giving



How to Get Started with Effective Philanthropy
Engaging in philanthropy that's meaningful, effective and makes a difference close to home is not easy. Unless you choose us as your partner.

There are three ways to get started:
  1. Establish and name a charitable fund
  2. Give to existing funds that match your charitable passions
  3. Contribute to the Foundation's leadership work, which includes leading initiatives that tackle the root causes of regional problems.
You may be actively involved in your giving, or leave the details to us. We provide you with expert guidance on community needs and solutions, secure and oversee professional investment management and handle all reporting requirements. In addition, private foundations and individuals can contract with us for philanthropic advisory services. Whether you establish a fund or give to an existing fund, we award grants from funds to nonprofit organizations.

Start with Clarifying Your Values and Passions
Philanthropy becomes meaningful to you when it reflects your values and passions. Yet with many local needs and over 2,423 charitable organizations in Fairfield County seeking your contributions, it's challenging to clarify what you care about. These questions will help you focus your giving and magnify the results.
  • How important is it for you to make a difference close to home?
  • Which causes are you passionate about? Which causes are important to your children, grandchildren or your employees?
  • What values do you want to reflect through your philanthropy?
  • What experiences or opportunities have been instrumental in your life? Do you wish to offer similar opportunities to others?
  • Whom do you most admire for their philanthropy? Why?
Then Consider How You Want to Give
If you're passionate about several issues or causes, you can set a percentage of your total giving for each one. You could also earmark a certain amount for favorite causes and leave the remainder for smaller annual gifts you choose to make, or for emerging needs that you learn about over time from us.

To learn more about your giving options, click here. Or, contact Sharon Reiss, Director of Philanthropic Services, at 203.750.3200.
Learn More

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What is a Community Foundation?

Overview of Features and Benefits

Tiered Service Levels for Donor Advised Funds

How You Can Pass On Your Values Through Family Philanthropy

 

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Stay Connected

Learn more about the One Region Collaborative Fund supporting transportation planning and reform in the Tr-State region.

In Their Own Words

“By sharing their philanthropic expertise, the Foundation has helped me grow from a raw neophyte to an educated, confident grantor.”

Anne Leonhardt
Fundholder