For Donor Advisors
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I have access to my fund statement?
Quarterly fund statements are now available online with a username and password.
How do I get my username and password to access the Donor Advisor Portal?
You can register your username and obtain a secure password by contacting Debra Orrino, 203-753-1315.
Can I make a grant recommendation from my fund if I am unable to access the Donor Advisor Portal?
You may make a grant recommendation from your fund by completing a grant recommendation form and submitting it by email* to Debra Orrino, or by completing our online grant recommendation form. Please contact Debra, 203-753-1315 for assistance or questions. *Pre-authorization by the donor advisor is required for grant recommendation forms by email; you can obtain the authorization form here.
How often should I recommend grants from a donor advised fund?
We encourage you to recommend grants from your fund on a regular basis. Some advisors choose to do it annually, while others offer their recommendations semi-annually or quarterly.
What is the minimum amount I can recommend for a grant from my fund?
$200
Who can act as a fund advisor?
You may name co-advisors and successor advisors to continue to guide the fund both while you are involved and far into the future.
How do I add to my fund?
To contribute directly your fund, you can contribute online or mail a check to the Connecticut Community Foundation, 43 Field St., Waterbury, CT 06702. Please be sure to indicate the name of the fund to which the gift should be directed. If you are interested in transferring securities, please contact Ann Merriam Feinberg.
Are there restrictions on the grants I can recommend?
- As a fund advisor, you may recommend grants to public charities under Section 501(c)(3). To comply with applicable IRS regulations, however, the Foundation’s board of trustees retains the final responsibility for approving distributions from funds.
- IRS rules also dictate that grants cannot be used to fulfill personal pledges or for any other purpose from which you would receive a personal benefit. Examples include ticket or table purchases to a fundraising dinner, greens fees for a charity golf tournament, or pledges made to an organization.
Can I recommend gifts to charities outside of our service area?
Although our focus is on the needs of greater Waterbury and the Litchfield Hills, grant recommendations and distributions from donor advised funds may be made to any qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations.
How soon will the grant recommendation be processed?
Grants will normally be processed within 10-14 days after receipt of the grant recommendation form.
How do grant recipients learn about their grant award?
Following approval, CCF mails checks and grant award letters to grant recipients. Award letters include details about the grant's purpose and the fund name. You will receive a letter to confirm that CCF approved and paid the grant.
Can you help find effective charities to support in our area?
Our professional staff can work with you to identify organizations involved in the causes you care about, including opportunities for you to "co-fund" projects the Foundation is supporting.
Can other people contribute to the fund I establish?
Yes.
Can my children or other family members get involved?
CCF has many donors who are encouraging their children to carry on their own traditions of philanthropy. Educating children through example and shared activities instills a legacy of commitment. Your advised fund allows you and your children to encourage and support those community values that you respect.
