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Split-interest charitable gifts: Need-to-know FAQs
Charitable gift annuities (CGAs) and charitable remainder trusts (CRTs) can help clients create income streams while supporting charitable causes. While both strategies offer tax and philanthropic benefits, they differ significantly in complexity, flexibility, and ideal use cases. Explore six frequently asked questions to help guide client conversations and determine which option may fit their goals.

Tina O'Brien
4 days ago3 min read


Getting creative: Unusual noncash assets can make great gifts to charity
Charitable planning doesn’t have to stop at cash and stock. From classic cars and boats to RVs and private collections, noncash assets can present unique opportunities for clients to simplify their estates, potentially reduce taxes, and support the causes they care about. Learn four key considerations for helping clients turn passion assets into lasting community impact.

Tina O'Brien
4 days ago3 min read


“Nice to meet you”: Introducing your advisors to the Kitsap Community Foundation team
Your attorney, CPA, and financial advisor each bring valuable expertise to your planning process—but charitable giving often benefits from a dedicated philanthropic partner, too. By connecting your advisors with Kitsap Community Foundation, you can create a more coordinated approach to achieving your financial, estate, and charitable goals while maximizing your impact in the community.

Tina O'Brien
4 days ago2 min read


Caution ahead? Changes may be coming to the Form 990
The IRS Form 990 is more than a tax filing—it’s a valuable tool for demonstrating transparency, accountability, and mission impact. As proposed federal changes place greater attention on nonprofit reporting, organizations have an opportunity to strengthen donor confidence and showcase strong governance. Kitsap Community Foundation is here to help nonprofits navigate evolving expectations and communicate their impact effectively.

Kimberly Cizek Allen
5 days ago2 min read


Say what? The tax laws changed?
As donors adjust to changing tax laws and economic uncertainty, nonprofits may see both hesitation and new opportunities for engagement. Organizations that prioritize clear communication, flexible giving strategies, and mission-driven storytelling can strengthen donor relationships and encourage long-term support.

Tina O'Brien
May 74 min read


Are your messages out of date?
As tax laws and donor behavior evolve, nonprofits may need to rethink traditional fundraising messaging. Today’s donors are increasingly motivated by impact, transparency, and connection to mission. Organizations that focus on year-round storytelling, tailored outreach, and evolving giving methods can build stronger, more resilient donor relationships.

Tina O'Brien
May 73 min read


Wake up call: OBBBA changes and client conversations
While advisors may already be familiar with recent tax law changes, many clients are just beginning to understand their impact. With new deduction floors, caps, and opportunities for non-itemizers, thoughtful planning matters more than ever. Even simple conversations about charitable strategies can help clients navigate complexity with confidence.

Tina O'Brien
May 53 min read


Rare but useful: Planning with charitable lead trusts
Charitable lead annuity trusts (CLATs) are complex but increasingly relevant, especially in light of recent IRS guidance suggesting added flexibility. For the right client—particularly those with appreciating assets and estate tax exposure—a CLAT can support charitable goals while enabling efficient wealth transfer.

Tina O'Brien
May 53 min read


Tax season debrief: Three common regrets
The period right after tax season offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on charitable giving decisions while details are still fresh. From missed tax-saving strategies like donating appreciated assets or bunching contributions, to documentation gaps, many common regrets can be avoided with early planning. By taking a proactive approach and partnering with Kitsap Community Foundation, donors can align their giving more effectively with both their financial goals and their d

Tina O'Brien
Apr 203 min read


Serving charitable clients: Dual strategies emerge
As tax policy and wealth patterns evolve, philanthropic clients are increasingly split between ultra-high-net-worth families engaging in complex legacy planning and emerging donors taking their first structured steps into giving. By tailoring strategies to each group—from sophisticated estate and succession planning to accessible entry points like small annual gifts and Qualified Charitable Distributions—advisors can help clients build meaningful, sustainable philanthropic im

Tina O'Brien
Apr 163 min read


Reverse the Trend: Motivate More Giving in the Kitsap Region
As tax policies evolve, nonprofits may see shifts in donor behavior—but relationships, trust, and clear impact remain the strongest drivers of generosity. By focusing on donor engagement, multigenerational support, and collective giving opportunities, organizations in Kitsap can build resilience and sustain long-term impact regardless of external changes.

Tina O'Brien
Apr 64 min read


Case study: A QCD conversion in action
Qualified Charitable Distributions can be powerful for clients 70½+, but the rules can be confusing—especially around donor-advised funds. KCF helps advisors and clients understand which fund types qualify for QCDs and how to structure gifts that reduce taxable income while honoring charitable intent. With collaborative planning, QCDs become a clear, compliant, and meaningful giving strategy.

Tina O'Brien
Jan 75 min read


Keep going: Why donor-advised funds are still essential
Even with the 0.5% floor and 35% cap now in effect, donor-advised funds remain a highly relevant planning tool. KCF’s DAFs provide flexibility, local expertise, and meaningful opportunities for impact—helping clients align timing, strategy, and community priorities. For advisors, DAFs continue to support long-term, holistic planning and values-driven philanthropy.

Tina O'Brien
Jan 72 min read


What’s new in the numbers: A checklist for charitable tax rules in 2026
Key 2026 tax adjustments—COLA increases, higher standard deductions, shifted brackets, expanded QCD limits, and new non-itemizer deductions—all influence charitable planning. Kitsap Community Foundation can help you guide clients toward tax-efficient giving strategies and ensure their philanthropy remains impactful and aligned with evolving rules.

Tina O'Brien
Jan 73 min read


Charitable tax law changes for 2026: Keeping your tax advisors in the loop
A new year is a great time to review your charitable priorities—especially with 2026 tax changes that may affect giving strategies. From new itemizing thresholds to updated incentives for non-itemizers and retirees, it’s important to loop in your tax advisors early. Kitsap Community Foundation is here to coordinate with your financial team so you can meet your charitable goals with clarity and confidence.

Tina O'Brien
Jan 74 min read


Big and small, there is something for every donor
As 2026 begins, tailor strategies for both affluent and entry-level donors. Major donors need personalized engagement and demonstrated impact, especially under new tax rules. At the same time, entry-level donors may increase giving thanks to new above-the-line deductions. Layered, diversified communication helps sustain support across all donor levels. KCF is here to help you build a resilient, inclusive fundraising strategy.

Lillian Xie
Jan 62 min read


2025 action required: Last call for current tax laws
As you guide clients through year-end planning, 2025 stands out as a pivotal year for charitable strategy. With significant OBBBA tax changes arriving in 2026, now is the time to help donors maximize the value of their contributions and consider tools like donor-advised funds or QCDs. Kitsap Community Foundation is here to support you and your clients in navigating these shifting rules with confidence.

Tina O'Brien
Dec 8, 20252 min read


Unrestricted giving, QCDs, and why they matter for your philanthropy
As community needs evolve, trusted giving tools matter more than ever. For donors 70½ and older, QCDs provide a tax-efficient way to support meaningful work today and into the future. Many pair QCDs with their donor-advised funds to strengthen both annual and unrestricted impact. KCF is honored to assist.

Jo Delaney
Dec 7, 20252 min read


Engaging purpose-driven companies
With OBBBA’s new corporate giving limits taking effect in 2026, nonprofits may see shifts in how companies approach philanthropy. Focusing on purpose-driven businesses and framing support as strategic partnership can help sustain corporate engagement. The KCF team is ready to support your outreach and planning.

Lillian Xie
Dec 5, 20252 min read


Donor-advised funds: Flexible, tax-friendly, and just the beginning
For advisors guiding clients through charitable and financial planning, a donor-advised fund at Kitsap Community Foundation offers unmatched flexibility. Beyond simplifying annual giving, it can serve as the foundation of a comprehensive charitable portfolio—integrating tax planning, legacy strategies, and local impact. Partner with our team to ensure your clients’ generosity endures for generations.

Lillian Xie
Nov 6, 20252 min read
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