We’re committed to helping you realize your giving goals.
Philanthropy should be easy and convenient — the Community Foundation of South Jersey (CFSJ) provides a full range of support to individuals who open a fund.
Whether your goal is to manage your current philanthropic giving, work on an issue you’re passionate about, or create a permanent charitable legacy, we partner with you to ensure your giving is effective in your communities.
How to Start a Fund
Step 1: Determine What You’re Passionate About Supporting
We are here to help you structure a fund of your own and work with your attorney, accountant, financial advisor or trust officer to make sure it works with your estate plan or current financial goals.
Step 2: Sign a Fund Agreement
Once you have reviewed a sample agreement and understand the terms, sign and return it to a foundation representative. This agreement states you are making a gift to the Community Foundation to establish a charitable fund, and that the Community Foundation will distribute that money as you advise, both now and in the future.
Step 3: Make a Seed Gift
Seed your giving fund with an initial tax-deductible gift of at least $10,000 and begin making grants right away. Gifts can be in the form of cash, appreciated securities, real property, and other assets. You can also name the fund as a beneficiary in your will, in your life-insurance plan, or other means within your estate. Then, upon your passing, the fund will begin making grants to the causes you have named.
Step 4: Make Grants to Your Favorite Causes
Advise the Community Foundation regarding grants you want to make to your favorite charity. A secure online portal is available to manage your charitable grants.
Types of Funds
Begin your philanthropic journey by choosing a fund type and designating a name. We can design a fund that’s right for you based on your interests and goals.
| Type of Fund | Description |
|---|---|
| Donor Advised Funds | Donors advise specific grants to be made from the fund locally, nationally, or internationally. |
| Scholarship Funds | Donors contribute to students' educational pursuits with support from CFSJ. |
| Field of Interest Funds | Donors designate an area of interest, such as youth, education, etc. and CFSJ helps to identify effective organizations to support. |
| Designated Agency Funds | Donors name one or more specific organizations they wish to support with annual distributions. |
| Community/Group Funds | Communities and groups collaborate to create funds to support common interests. |
| Legacy Funds | With this fund type, you entrust us to fulfill your legacy and ensure that it aligns with your philanthropic intent. |
Make an Impact Today
To establish a fund, or for questions, call 856-528-3385.