Frequently asked questions.

A donor-advised fund (DAF) is a charitable giving account administered by Kitsap Community Foundation. You make a tax-deductible contribution to the fund, and then recommend grants to qualified nonprofits over time. It is one of the simplest, most flexible, and most tax-efficient ways to manage your charitable giving. Think of it as a charitable savings account that lets you give on your own timeline while receiving an immediate tax benefit.

The minimum contribution to open a donor-advised fund at Kitsap Community Foundation is $5,000. Once your fund is established, you can add to it at any time with additional contributions of any size. Other fund types, such as designated or field-of-interest funds, may have different minimums. Contact our team to discuss the option that best fits your goals and budget.

Yes. Kitsap Community Foundation accepts a wide variety of non-cash assets, including publicly traded securities, closely held stock, real estate, and other complex assets. Donating appreciated assets can be especially advantageous because you may avoid capital gains tax while still receiving a full fair-market-value charitable deduction. Our team works closely with you and your financial advisor to ensure a smooth transfer process.

Yes. Kitsap Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity, and contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. When you contribute to a donor-advised fund or any other fund at KCF, you receive an immediate tax deduction in the year of the gift. We provide contribution receipts for your tax records. We always recommend consulting your tax advisor for guidance specific to your situation.

Recommending a grant is simple. You can submit a grant recommendation through our online Fund Advisor Portal, by email, or by phone. Simply tell us the organization you would like to support and the amount. Our team handles the due diligence to verify the organization's eligibility, processes the grant, and sends the check. Most grants are processed within two to four weeks.

Grants from your fund can be directed to any IRS-qualified 501(c)(3) public charity in the United States. This includes local Kitsap nonprofits, national organizations, schools, faith-based organizations, and other qualified entities. Grants cannot be made to individuals, private foundations, or for political contributions. Our team can help you identify eligible organizations that align with your charitable interests.

Contributions to your fund are professionally invested by KCF's Investment Committee according to a prudent, diversified investment strategy. Our goal is to grow your charitable assets over time while managing risk. Fund holders can choose from several investment pool options depending on their giving timeline and goals. Investment performance is reported to you quarterly through your Fund Advisor Portal.

Absolutely. Most fund holders choose to name their fund after their family, a loved one, or a cause they care about. You may also choose to give anonymously. The name of your fund will appear on grant letters sent to recipient organizations unless you request otherwise. Naming your fund is a meaningful way to create a lasting legacy and engage the next generation in philanthropy.

When you establish your fund, you can designate successor advisors -- such as children, grandchildren, or trusted friends -- who will continue to recommend grants from your fund. You may also include instructions for the fund's long-term purpose, such as directing it to support specific causes or organizations in perpetuity. This succession planning ensures your charitable legacy endures for generations and reflects your values.

Getting started is easy. Simply contact our team to schedule a conversation about your giving goals. We will walk you through the process of selecting the right fund type, completing a brief fund agreement, and making your initial contribution. Most funds can be established in just a few days. You can also learn more about starting a fund on our website.