Individual Donors
Welcome to the Giving Forum, your one-stop shopping site for information on regional philanthropy! By giving to charitable and philanthropic organizations you can exercise your support for the goals, people, and purposes you believe in. Philanthropy is your individual response to human needs; an opportunity to give is an opportunity to be involved. It is caring and serving. Philanthropy gives your wealth meaning and engages you as stewards in the betterment of society.
In addition to the information and tools in this section, you can also find valuable resources in the Forum’s online Knowledge Centers on a variety of topics. You can also find information through your local regional association of grantmakers. That association can add value to the information here, by:
- Providing information on your area's giving
- Connecting you to likeminded people with whom you can discuss your goals and needs
- Offering periodic programs on various aspects of the craft of grantmaking and issues needing their support
- Giving you unbiased advice on various giving vehicles that might be right for you
Materials
- How Can I Give?
Once you decide that you want to give, the next step is to determine how you will make your gifts. This document lists ways to give during your lifetime.
- What Can I Give?
An overview of some common types of assets you can donate to charity.
- Planned Giving
Definition of and options for planned giving.
- Involving Family Members in Giving
Ideas for involving family members in philanthropy.
- A Plan of One's Own: A Woman's Guide to Philanthropy (PDF)
This guide examines women's roles in philanthropy and features “how to” sections on creating and using a variety of forms of charitable giving, as well as working with professional advisors. Hardcopies are also available by contacting Courtney Moore (cmoore@givingforum.org or 703-879-0809).
Links
- Types of Grantmakers
Discover the different types of grantmakers and the roles that they play in promoting the common good.
- Giving Circles Knowledge Center
Full of information, tools, and sample documents to help you start a giving circle. Contains useful resources for growing a giving circle and connecting with other circles across the country.
- Individual Givers Legal Questions and Answers in Tribal Communities
This First Nations Development Institute booklet addresses the often-asked legal questions on charitable giving for individuals in tribal communities.
- Community Giving Resource
The Community Giving Resource (CGR) is a free resource for donors looking to give more actively and more effectively to issues facing disadvantaged communities, including: housing, employment, education, healthcare, and the environment.