Frequently Asked Questions for Donors
Supporting Your Philanthropic Journey
Below are some of the most common questions we receive from our donors. Whether you’re exploring how to maximize your giving, understanding how your fund works, or considering a long-term charitable plan, we’re here to help. If you have a specific question or would like more information on any of the topics below, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Donor Services team.
What is the Community Foundation? What do you do?
The Hamilton Community Foundation, along with our affiliates—the Ross and Fairfield Community Foundations—is a nonprofit organization that helps people like you support your charitable interests by creating customized, personal funds. It’s easy, and all of our endowed funds are carefully invested to ensure your generosity lasts for generations.
Our team of philanthropic advisors supports local donors at every stage, from those just getting started to individuals planning estate gifts to make a lasting impact in our communities.
How is a Foundation different than other nonprofits?
While most nonprofits are very specific, mission-driven organizations, the Foundation’s mission is broader – we’re here to help you support whatever causes are important to you as well as advise on your personal giving strategies. We can help you support all of your charitable interests, whether they are health and human services, arts and culture, the environment, education, or religious causes.
How do I donate stock?
If you are planning a stock gift, follow our stock gift process and please contact our team in advance to ensure a smooth transaction. It is helpful for us to know how many shares of what stock to expect as part of your gift.
What is the minimum you can start a fund with at the Foundation?
The minimum amount to establish a donor-advised, field-of-interest, designated, or unrestricted fund is $5,000. The minimum amount to establish a scholarship fund is $10,000. Not ready to begin at that level? Consider starting an Acorn Fund with a smaller initial gift and grow it over time until it reaches the minimum needed to activate a full charitable fund.
Who invests the Foundation's funds?
The primary pooled fund of the Foundation is mannaged by Merrill Lynch Investment Advisors and overseen by our local Investment Advisory Committee. The foundation also has the ability to work with different trusted advisors should the funds being established be significant enought.
What is a permanent endowment?
A permanent endowment is a way to create a lasting impact on the causes you care about. When you contribute to an endowed fund at the Foundation, your gift isn’t spent—it’s invested for long-term growth. Each year, typically 5% of the fund’s assets, averaged over 12 rolling quarters, is granted to support charitable causes.
As the endowment grows, so does the amount available to give. Donors can work with the Foundation to establish spending parameters that align with their philanthropic goals, ensuring their generosity continues to make a difference for generations to come.
What fee does the Foundation charge?
The Community Foundation charges no setup fees. However, there is a 1% administrative fee charged that supports our organization as well as investment related fees depending on your funds investment strategy.
Why does the Community Foundation charge fees?
When you invest in the Foundation, you're investing in your community. The administrative fee on your fund isn’t just a cost—it’s what allows us to ensure your generosity makes the biggest possible impact. Your investment helps us:
- Provide tax-deductible giving options
- Ensure compliance with ever-changing laws
- Maintain transparent fund accounting
- Process gifts and grants efficiently
- Offer community leadership and guidance
- Manage endowment investments responsibly
Unlike fees charged by large, national financial institutions, your investment stays right here, supporting local needs and strengthening the causes you care about. We know this community inside and out, and we work every day to make sure your fund does exactly what you intend. Now that’s a smart investment!
Do grants from the Foundation have to go to organizations in our community?
No, grants from Foundation funds can support any 501(c)(3) public charity, church, school, or government agency—such as police and fire departments or parks departments—anywhere in the United States. While many donors choose to give locally, your generosity can make an impact wherever you choose. The Foundation carefully screens all grant recipients to ensure they are eligible to receive charitable funds.
Can I make anonymous gifts through my fund at the Foundation?
Yes! You have the option to make any grant anonymously. Some donors choose to give anonymously for all their grants, while others request anonymity for specific gifts. Whatever your preference, we’re here to ensure your giving is handled exactly as you wish.
How is the Community Foundation different from a private foundation?
Private foundations are typically established by a single donor or family, who funds the foundation and directs how grants are distributed. They operate as one fund with one donor’s intentions guiding its giving.
In contrast, a Community Foundation is a collection of funds, each with its own unique purpose, representing many different donors. Our role is to steward and administer each fund in accordance with the donor’s intent, ensuring their charitable vision is carried out effectively.
Additionally, Community Foundations are governed by a non-compensated board of trustees, receive more favorable tax treatment, and offer greater flexibility in grantmaking and operations—allowing us to respond to evolving community needs while maximizing impact.
