Ask a donor: How do you choose which charities to support?

“When you see their passion and dedication…that’s the first step in determining that they're a good organization” – Vanguard Charitable donor

How does giving through a DAF benefit nonprofits?

Donor-advised funds pull more dollars into the philanthropic sector by investing charitable assets for growth, making non-cash assets available for donation, and encouraging donors to be more strategic and thoughtful with their giving.

“Once you start getting into philanthropy and you get that satisfaction in making the world a better place, I just don't see how you can stop.” – Vanguard Charitable donor

Many nonprofit organizations become aware of Vanguard Charitable when they receive a grant recommended by one of our donors. We’ve issued grants to more than 100,000 nonprofits since our founding. Upon receiving a grant, you are welcome to access the funds and utilize them to further your mission. Check the grant details for any additional guidelines.

Here are some other steps you may want to take:

• Use the grant to familiarize your staff with DAF grants and relevant IRS rules: For example, you should not send a tax receipt to DAF donors, as they’ve already received one from their DAF provider (e.g., Vanguard Charitable). For more nuanced rules, see our IRS guidelines resource.
• Continue to promote your ability to accept grants from DAFs: Consider mentioning DAFs on your website, in fundraising efforts, and on promotional materials. 
• When able, thank DAF donors and remind them of monthly or recurring grant features offered by most DAF providers.

• My nonprofit just received a grant or information request from Vanguard Charitable. What do I do next?
• I’d like to know more about Vanguard Charitable and donor-advised funds.
• I’m looking for resources that could be helpful to my nonprofit organization.
• I’m a donor who wants to find a charity to support.
• I’m a nonprofit interested in funding from Vanguard Charitable’s mission funds.

Grants went to charities in every state, with organizations like Feeding America, Doctors without Borders, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and the American National Red Cross among some receiving the most grants from donors.

Organizations with most grant units (7/1/2019 - 6/30/2020)