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BENEFITS OF AFFILIATION The Nebraska Community Foundation exists to help concerned individuals mobilize charitable giving to support the betterment of Nebraska communities and organizations. To this end, the Foundation assists many communities in rural Nebraska to provide or continue essential services, such as health care, telecommunications, K-12 education, environmental protection, libraries, community centers, parks/recreation, and scholarships. The following is a summary of some of the benefits communities and organizations receive by affiliating with the Nebraska Community Foundation. 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 conforming to IRS standards directly to donors. Local Control – Locally selected Fund Advisory Committee members make the decisions about how affiliated fund charitable dollars are spent. * 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 non-profits 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 will demonstrate 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 over 1,500 affiliated fund leaders become even 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 Website – 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 website, 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 strategic planning 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. * 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. |
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Nebraska Community Foundation PO Box 83107 Lincoln, NE 68501 Phone: (402) 323-7330 Fax: (402) 323-7349 E-mail: webmaster@nebcommfound.org |
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