Benefits of Affiliation

The Nebraska Community Foundation currently serves community, organizational and donor-advised funds in Nebraska. NCF affiliation offers a number of benefits that balance local control with professional management services:

Nonprofit Status

Affiliated funds gain access to NCF’s tax-exempt, sec. 501(c)(3) status, allowing donors to take a tax deduction for their contributions. NCF issues charitable receipts directly to donors conforming to IRS standards. NCF has a legal responsibility for all funds entrusted with it to ensure that funds are used consistent with provisions of IRC § 501(c)(3) and in compliance with donor intent. A local foundation would have the same legal responsibilities.

Local Control

Locally selected Fund Advisory Committee members make the decisions about how affiliated fund charitable dollars are spent. NCF has a legal responsibility for all funds entrusted with it to ensure that funds are used consistent with provisions of IRC § 501(c)(3) and in compliance with donor intent. A local foundation would have the same legal responsibilities.

Financial and Administrative Services

Affiliated funds have access to NCF’s financial and administrative services. NCF has the sole responsibility for all day-to-day financial activities, including recording contributions; making disbursements; cash management; preparing and filing IRS Form 990; obtaining an audit of its financial statements by an independent CPA firm and issuing the fund’s financial reports. Affiliated funds with endowed assets can invest in one of three investment portfolios designed for nonprofits and offered by NCF’s investment advisor, McCarthy Group Advisors (a Nebraska-based company).

National Standards

NCF has received recognition for having organizational and financial practices that are in compliance with National Standards established by the Council on Foundations. This demonstrates NCF’s integrity and accountability to donors.

Peer Learning Network

NCF uses peer learning to help build community capacity and leadership. NCF facilitates peer-learning opportunities on many relevant topics to help our network of affiliated fund leaders become more skillful and confident.

Contributions to Multiple Funds

NCF is helping to evolve Nebraskans’ giving habits to support causes and programs that will have greater impact upon the long-term sustainability of Nebraska’s hometowns. NCF’s educational efforts are helping many donors to consider the multiple causes they can choose to support with their current and planned gifts.

Marketing, Communications and Web site

NCF marketing materials are available to affiliated funds at minimal or no charge. Sample or customized media relations materials, donor letters and financial planner communications can all be provided. NCF maintains an extensive Web site, providing information to affiliated funds, potential donors and financial planners. The ability to accept online donations is also available.

Training and Technical Assistance

NCF staff has expertise in community development, strategic planning, planned giving and the development of public-private partnerships. NCF staff and Board Members are available to help funds get organized, provide guidance for strategic planning and advise on effective fundraising techniques. Workshops on topics ranging from leadership development to donor visitation techniques are held statewide.

Gift Planning Assistance

NCF assists attorneys, CPAs, insurance agents, financial planners, bankers and brokers and their clients/donors with charitable gift planning. Brochures and materials on the benefits of charitable giving are available at no charge.