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November 19, 2020 - In our Donor-Advised Funds 101 crash course, we’ve covered what donor-advised funds are, how they work, and why they are a popular giving vehicle. These are the things all donor-advised funds (DAFs) have in common.

There are differences, however, in how donor-advised fund programs work across the various sponsoring organizations. When you choose to open a donor-advised fund, you are also choosing a sponsoring organization. As you consider what matters most to you in a giving partner, allow us to share just ten ways HighGround is set apart from other sponsoring organizations.

1. FOCUSED SUPPORT
Sponsoring organizations of DAFs must be public charities. In the last few decades, some financial institutions have created indirect charitable arms of their companies in order to sponsor DAFs. HighGround, however, is independent of a public company and does not have the financial pressures associated with one. Additionally, HighGround does not raise funds or plan activities in support of a particular cause. Since our inception, we have been focused on supporting the work and missions of our nonprofit clients.

2. NONPROFIT EXPERTISE
As a nonprofit ourselves, we know first-hand the unique challenges nonprofits face. HighGround also has well-established relationships with over 525 qualified charities and may already be the trusted investment advisor of the charity you wish to benefit. Our unmatched knowledge of nonprofit investment management has fostered long-term partnerships with our clients – some since 1930.

3. PROFESSIONAL LEGAL GUIDANCE
For 90 years, our team of expert lawyers has provided legal guidance for nonprofits and their donors in order to help maximize the impact of philanthropic giving.

4. INVESTMENT EXPERTISE
HighGround’s in-house investment team has over 100 years of combined nonprofit investment experience and is supported by 50+ world-class investment managers.

5. SOCIALLY SCREENED FUNDS
HighGround investment funds are screened to restrict companies whose business activities are inconsistent with Christian faith and values.

6. ALIGNED VALUES
At HighGround, our values are founded in faith and reflect our call to service for God’s glory. We champion the work of nonprofits, churches and ministries, and when you make us your charitable giving partner, you align yourself with an organization that shares a passion for your mission.

7. ANYONE CAN CONTRIBUTE
At HighGround, anyone can make a tax-deductible contribution to your DAF, making it the perfect vehicle for receiving birthday, anniversary, or memorial gifts. Not all sponsoring organizations allow contributions from third parties.

8. QUICK AND EASY SET-UP
We want it to be easy for you to grow your giving for good. That’s why establishing a donor-advised fund at HighGround is simple. Apply for a DAF, contribute to your DAF, then begin supporting the charities you love. To get started, call us today at 1.800.747.5564 or 214.978.3300.

9. DEDICATED SUPPORT
With our Client Partner Communications Specialist ready to assist you in setting up your DAF and a personal Account Manager assigned to you for all your ongoing DAF needs, the giving process has never been easier.

10. GIVE ANYTIME, ANYWHERE
While HighGround has sponsored DAFs since the 1980s, we have an exciting development in the works. In the next few months, we will be unveiling our brand-new online DAF portal. Through the portal, you will be able to open new DAFs, make contributions, and recommend grants - at any time and from anywhere. Additionally, inside your DAF portal, you’ll have 24/7 access to contribution and grant history as well as monthly statements and your current DAF balance.

At HighGround, we care about helping you maximize your charitable impact on the important work of nonprofits. As you consider your end-of-year giving goals, now may be the perfect time to set up a DAF. If you have questions about donor-advised funds or any other giving vehicles, call us today.