Why was The GIFT Foundation established?
The GIFT Foundation is a community foundation at work in the community today.  Other foundations in our community are private foundations.  Being a community foundation allows donor flexibility to direct contributions to the area they want to benefit, provides greater tax benefits and allows them to maintain association with their gift if they so desire.

As a donor, what kind of recognition will I receive?
You will receive a written expression of thanks from GIFT's Board of Directors and an acknowledgement of the gift in accordance with federal regulations.  Your gift will also be recognized in our press releases, annual report and on our website. You can name your own GIFT fund so that grant recipients will be reminded of you and your generous caring for your community for years to come.

If I wish to make an anonymous donation, will my privacy be protected?
Yes.

If I wish to make a donation with proceeds going to a particular cause, can a donation through GIFT allow that to happen?
Yes, GIFT's donor advised funds allow you to customize how your gift will be used.

What are the benefits of donating through GIFT versus establishing a private foundation to further the benefactor that I designate?
There are several.  There are tax advantages that allow more of your gift to be directed to beneficiaries.  There are less governmental regulations and the expenses that are associated with complying with them. See our comparison page for more details.

Can I specify exactly what the funds I donate will be used for?
Yes.  Your donation can be designated to benefit whatever organization or cause you choose.

Is GIFT operated under the supervision of, or have ties to the Chamber of Commerce, or any other community organization or business?
No. GIFT is a stand-alone community foundation.  GIFT is overseen by elected Board of Directors made up of community citizens. We are affiliated with the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend.

What is the affiliation with the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend?

GIFT focuses on serving the Geneseo and surrounding communities and emphasizes local decision-making and grantmaking. We operate under the fiscal management and guidance of a host community foundation, which has met National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations. The Community Foundation of the Great River Bend is the host for GIFT and provides:

• legal expertise
• administrative staff support
• education and marketing materials
• networking
• training

Can I direct my funds toward other local foundations?
Yes, as long as the donation is consistent with the by-laws of that foundation.

Can I continue to use my current investment advisor?
Yes, you can use your current advisor or you can choose to utilize the professional investment team offered by our affiliate, the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend.