Question 1

Alan and Ellen Newberg Scholarships

Accepted Answer

This need-based scholarship will be awarded to graduating seniors or graduates of a Kitsap County High School who is accepted by an accredited college, university, trade or vocational school and focusing on arts, science, medicine, information science, or the trades. Previous recipients of this scholarship may reapply for subsequent years of study.
 
Dollars awarded for the scholarship are sent directly to the institution of choice. Once enrollment is confirmed, the award will be applied toward tuition.

$4,000 in scholarships will be awarded to 2-4 students. Typical award is $1,000-$2,000.

Question 2

2025

Accepted Answer

Read our 2024-2025 KCF Impact Report 
Read the 2025 Kitsap Great Give Event Recap

Question 3

Bill and Sandra Walgren Scholarships

Accepted Answer

These are need-based scholarships.  One scholarship for up to $2,500 will be awarded to eligible students.

The following applicant requirements must be met:
Applicants must have a family income less than $75,000/year
Applicants must belong to an underrepresented minority group
Applicants must be a graduating senior or have graduated from a Kitsap County High School
Applicants must be accepted to an accredited college, university, or trade or vocational school
Exceptions for need-based may be made for students demonstrating outstanding merit and promise
Previous recipients of this scholarship may reapply

Question 4

2024

Accepted Answer

Read our 2024 Kitsap Great Give Event Recap Report

Question 5

2023

Accepted Answer

Read our 2022-23 Kitsap Community Foundation Impact Report (annual report)
Read the 2023 Kitsap Great Give Community Report

Question 6

Bremerton High School Pay It Forward Scholarship

Accepted Answer

In 2008 we started a scholarship specifically for an underrepresented segment of Bremerton High School grads--those with 2.5 - 3.5 GPAs, who are low-income and among the first in their family to seek further education at college/trade school. We believe these students are viable and have great potential, yet they often are overlooked by other scholarship associations.

BHS PIF scholarship is unique: We give $14K awards. We require each recipient to Pay It Forward by giving 15 hours of community service each year. Character/ motivation are more important to us than perfect GPAs.

We define success as seeing our PIF Scholars not only attend college or trade school, but GRADUATE with practical skills for the job market. Scholarships applications due February 28 at Bremerton High School Counseling Office. Renewal applications due August 15. Renewal application includes service record and a certified copy of your grades. Please send both items to scholarships@kitsapfoundation.org.
 
You may donate to the BHS Pay It Forward Scholarship Here.

View Application & Apply Today

Question 7

2022

Accepted Answer

Read the 2022 Kitsap Great Give Community Report

Question 8

Charles and Dorothy Martell Family Music Scholarship

Accepted Answer

This scholarship is given from a Fund established by the Martell children. The scholarship will go to a Kitsap County graduating high school student and may support payment for tuition or costs of educational supplies. Strong consideration will be given to participants of the Bremerton Youth Symphony, students wishing to continue music or music education. Demonstrated strengths in musical interest and ability, personal character, and citizenship are required.
 
One scholarship up to $900 will be awarded.

The children of Charles and Dorothy Martell established this scholarship fund in honor of their parents. According to daughter Jane Chapin, "not only were my parents active community volunteers and avid supporters of the arts, but they gave unconditionally of their time and talent to help young musicians succeed. They were always helping someone."

The following applicant requirements must be met:
The scholarship will be awarded to a Kitsap County graduating high school student. Scholarship funds may support payment for tuition or costs of books, music or supplies, and help with the cost of instruments. Strong consideration will be given to participants of the Bremerton Youth Symphony, and students wishing to continue music or music education beyond high school. Demonstrated strengths of musical interest and ability, personal character, and citizenship are required.

Question 9

Danford and Frances Moore Engineering Scholarship

Accepted Answer

The scholarship will go to either a South Kitsap High School graduating high school senior, or Olympic College student working toward a 4-year degree in Engineering, Water Resources, and/or Biology. The scholarship may support payment for tuition. Applicants with an interest in music also preferred.  Previous recipients of this scholarship may reapply for subsequent years of study. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0.
 
One $2,000 scholarship will be awarded.
The Danford & Frances Moore Scholarship Fund was established in 2016 to support a South Kitsap High School or Olympic College student interested in pursuing a career in mechanical engineering. The scholarship will be granted on the basis of merit and need.

Question 10

2021

Accepted Answer

Read the 2021 Kitsap Great Give Community Report

Question 11

2020

Accepted Answer

Read our 2020 Annual Report
 
Read our Summer 2020 News
 
Read the 2020 Kitsap Great Give Community Report

Question 12

Fred and Marvel Hill Scholarship

Accepted Answer

This scholarship was established by the Hills and continues to be supported by their children. An applicant must be a graduating senior from the North Kitsap School District, and accepted by an accredited college, university, or trade or vocational school.
 
One scholarship up to $1,350 will be awarded.

Fred and Marvel Hill founded Fred Hill Materials more than 60 years ago, building a successful multi-generational, privately-held company employing more than 150 employees. Both Fred and Marvel valued hard work as a means to success for themselves and their family: all six of their children graduated from the North Kitsap School District. They enjoyed the many diverse recreational opportunities in Kitsap and were charter members of the Poulsbo Yacht Club. They were also involved in the community from the local Lion's Club, various chambers of commerce, and even playing music for school dances.

The following applicant requirements must be met:
This year's scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior of the North Kitsap School District who is accepted by an accredited college, university, trade or vocational school. Dollars awarded for the scholarship are sent directly to the institution of choice, once enrollment is confirmed, and will be applied towards tuition.

Question 13

Gordon Stenerson Memorial Scholarship

Accepted Answer

Gordon Stenerson was a dedicated educator and coach for forty years, primarily in the North Kitsap School District. He taught mathematics, driver’s education and was the NKHS boys track coach for over 25 years. After retiring from NKHS, Gordon and his wife, Jane, worked at the American Overseas School of Rome. When he and Jane returned to Poulsbo, Gordon continued his teaching career at West Sound Academy for eight years before retiring again. Their three children are graduates of NKHS.

A few words about Gordon from former students:
“Anyone who had him as a teacher, coach of friend was blessed to know him.”
“I feel lucky to have known him. He was a great teacher and coach with compassion and a sense of humor.”
“An outstanding smart math teacher who connected with students throughout his entire teaching and coaching career.”

This is a merit-based scholarship.
Eligible students must be a graduating senior from North Kitsap High School who is planning to attend an accredited community college, college, or university.
Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.4.
Preference given to a student who has participated in sports, has a demonstrated record of community service, and is interested in pursuing a career in education.
Dollars awarded for the scholarship will be sent directly to the institution of choice after enrollment has been confirmed and will be applied toward tuition.
Applicant must include a brief essay describing how this scholarship will help further educational/career goals.

One scholarship for $2,500 will be awarded.

Question 14

Judge Chavelle Scholarships

Accepted Answer

The Judge Chavelle Scholarship awards a total of $23,000 to up to six (6) students pursuing postsecondary education or vocational/technical training.

Applicants must:
Be a graduating high school senior (public, private, or homeschooled).
Be accepted into an accredited postsecondary institution, including colleges, universities, or vocational/technical training programs (e.g., welding, HVAC, healthcare technology, automotive, culinary arts, cosmetology, construction, etc.).
Hold a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
Demonstrate financial need (via FAFSA or a counselor statement).
Show evidence of strong work ethic, community involvement, or leadership.
Be born in Washington State.
Not be a graduate student.

Applications will be evaluated based on:
Academic performance
Personal essay (500 words)
Financial need
Three (3) character references or counselor recommendations
Proof of birth (Washington State–certified birth certificate)
Official or unofficial school transcripts from the most recent school attended
Letter of acceptance from an accredited postsecondary institution

Applications will be accepted from May 1 to May 31.

Question 15

Kitsap Foster Care Recipients Scholarship

Accepted Answer

The Kitsap Foster Care Recipients Scholarship is a need and merit-based scholarship for applicants who are a Foster Child or were in Foster Care.

The following applicant requirements must be met:
Applicants musst be a Kitsap County resident
Applicants must be accepted to an accredited institution
Scholarship award amount is $3,500 per year, up to $14,000 over six years.

Question 16

Marcia Hunter van Court Music Scholarship

Accepted Answer

Marcia Hunter van Court grew up in Bremerton and was involved with music throughout her life, singing everything from show tunes to opera well into her sixties. The scholarship fund was established by her Trust to encourage and enable adult musicians born or residing in Kitsap or North Mason County to study music at the post-secondary level. Marcia enjoyed the infinite variety of music, so this scholarship is not limited to any particular voice, instrument, or musical style. Here are some examples of who is eligible:
A Kitsap County high school senior who got accepted to study violin at the San Francisco Conservatory.
A teacher who grew up in Bremerton, and now teaches middle school band in Omaha, Nebraska and wants to start a Master's Degree.
A church organist that would like to do a deep dive into Bach at the Oregon Bach Festival's Organ Institute.
A bar band bass player that wants to improve their improvisation skills by attending Jazz Camp West.
A person that hasn't touched the clarinet since high school and would like to get back into it through Seattle Chamber Music's Adult Academy.

The Marcia Hunter van Court Music Scholarship wants to help you be a better musician, no matter what you play or how old you are. This is a need and merit-based scholarship focusing on music, with multiple awards each year totaling $10,500.

The following applicant requirements must be met:
The focus of this scholarship is music.
Applicants must have a financial need for assistance with paying for post-secondary music education. Additionally, the recipient must show high merit. The ideal candidate will be able to show both financial need and high merit
Applicants must intend to study music, broadly defined, not limited to a particular instrument or style.
The applicant must be at least 18 years old, or turning 18 when the supported program begins.
The applicant must be currently residing in or have been born in Kitsap or North Mason County

The scholarship funds will be disbursed directly to the institution, studio, program, or business providing the recipient's post-secondary music education services. Recipients must provide the necessary billing or enrollment information so that payment can be sent to the appropriate provider. No direct payments will be made to recipients.

Question 17

Maria Mercedes Mackovjak Memorial Artist Scholarship

Accepted Answer

A need-based scholarship (Family Income under $100,000 preferred) 
Exceptions for need based may be made for students demonstrating outstanding merit and promise.
Applicants must be graduating seniors of Kitsap County School District.
Applicants must be accepted to an accredited college, university, or trade or vocational school.
Applicants must be pursuing a degree in the Arts (photography, mixed media, graphic design, pottery, antique restoration, picture framing, etc.), or a related field.
Dollars awarded for the scholarship are sent directly to the institution of choice, once enrollment is confirmed, and will be applied towards tuition.
Previous recipients of this scholarship may reapply for subsequent years of study.
Submit two letters of recommendations from individuals who are familiar with the applicant’s educational goals and personal attributes. At least one letter must be from a teacher/faculty member.
Brief essay showing how this scholarship will help you further your educational or career goals.
One scholarship up to $1,000 scholarship will be awarded.

Question 18

Marie A. Barker Teaching Scholarship

Accepted Answer

This scholarship is given from a fund established by family, friends, and former pupils of Marie A. Barker. The Barker Family would like the recipient to achieve the important goal of a college degree leading to a career in teaching. The scholarship will be granted on the basis of merit and need to a student who has been accepted into the Western Washington University Woodring School of Education program. Specific requirements are available by contacting Western Washington University Woodring School of Education.
 
One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded.
Marie A. Barker, for whom this scholarship is named, was a master teacher who was dedicated to helping young children do their very best. Because of a scholarship, she was able to study education at Montana State. She began her teaching career two years later in a one-room schoolhouse in the eastern plains of Montana. At Poulsbo and Pearson Elementary Schools, she was, at various times, a teacher, reading specialists, librarian, and principal. After retiring from 31 years as an educator, she taught reading to adults as a Literacy Volunteer, helped other senior citizens with their insurance problems through SHIBA, and was active in Scandia Bible Church, as well as the teaching honorary society, Delta Kappa Gamma.
Mrs. Barker valued education and it was always her wish to fund scholarships for future teachers. When she passed away in 2004, many of her former pupils and friends donated generously to this scholarship fund.  The Marie A. Barker Teaching Scholarship Endowment now resides with the Kitsap Community Foundation. The Barker Family would like the beneficiary of this scholarship to achieve the important goal of a college degree leading to a career in teaching.

The following applicant requirements must be met:
To be eligible for this scholarship, one must be a full-time student attending Olympic College with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better, and accepted into the Western Washington University Woodring College of Education program ("the program"). Dollars awarded for this scholarship are sent directly to the college, once enrollment is confirmed, and will be applied towards tuition.

Applicants will be ranked in the following order of preference:
North Kitsap High School graduates enrolled in the program in Bremerton,
North Kitsap High School graduates enrolled in the program elsewhere in Washington, and
Other students enrolled in the program in Bremerton who demonstrate financial need and academic success.

Application Due Date will be determined by Western Washington University.

Question 19

Nicole (Lyle) Tranilla Memorial Scholarship

Accepted Answer

This scholarship is a need-based scholarship for a Central Kitsap female graduating senior pursuing a degree in electronics, electrical engineering, computer science, medical/dental, or a related field. Eligible students must be attending or have graduated from Central Kitsap High School and be accepted to an accredited college, university, or trade or vocational school. 
 
At least one scholarship for $1,000 will be awarded.

The mother of Nicole (Lyle) Tranilla established this scholarship in honor of Nicole and her daughter's desire to make a difference in this world. She wanted to make things better.  She was constantly helping out the youth in the community as her two daughters continued through their school years with soccer, bake sales, doughnut sales, cheer and booster club.  As she entered Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and earned her second degree in electronics, she was frequently speaking to young single women and encouraging them to get more education. Her feelings were, "If a woman improves her education, she improves her quality of life."
Prior to her death in 2013, while her older brother, Eran, was serving in Iraq in the US Army, Nicole would confide to her mom about her desire of wishing she could do more to help others.  As her mom, I told her she was making her mark every day by mentoring these young women both at work and at the school functions.

I believe this scholarship will continue to do just what Nicole wanted to accomplish. It will help many in the years to come.  All it takes is a few dollars coming from different directions. They all add up and that is why, "No gift is too small."  I thank each and every one of you that help to keep this legacy alive and help so many young women to better themselves in the process.  I also hope the recipients of this scholarship find it in their hearts, when they reach their goals, to "pay it forward" and find a way to help others.  How wonderful that would be! Thank you, Dianne Lyle (Nicole's mom)

Scholarship Criteria
This scholarship is need-based and awarded only to students focusing a degree in electronics, electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field. This year's scholarship will be awarded to a graduating female from Central Kitsap High School who is accepted by an accredited college, university, trade or vocational school. Dollars awarded for the scholarship are sent directly to the institution of choice, once enrollment is confirmed, and will be applied toward tuition.

If you would like to donate to this scholarship fund, you may do so here.

Question 20

Orchard Foods Scholarship

Accepted Answer

This need-based scholarship may range from $1,000 to $2,500.
Preference will be given to students who need scholarships to attend post-secondary school rather than preference given to students who have shown the best performance in their prior or current schooling.
Amount will be determined by the Scholarship Advisory Committee each year.
Dollars awarded for the scholarship are sent directly to the institution of choice, once enrollment is confirmed, and will be applied towards tuition.
A scholarship recipient may apply for a scholarship for multiple years.

The following applicant requirements must be met:
Applicant is currently working at an Orchard Foods restaurant.
Applicants are or were a high school student in a geographic area served by Orchard Foods.
Applicants will be attending or have been accepted to a post-secondary educational institution for the coming Fall.
​
Applications will be accepted from January 1 to March 31.

Question 21

Shirley Hecker Memorial Scholarship

Accepted Answer

This is a need and merit-based scholarship intended for students who may not receive as many scholarships
Applicants must be a graduating senior from North Kitsap School District (North Kitsap/Kingston). and  planning to attend an accredited college, university, or trade/vocational school. 
One $1,000 scholarship will be awarded.
Applicants must have a minimum GPA 3.0
Preference to candidates who have participated in extra-curricular activities
Preference may be given to students whose parent has been employed as a bus driver or a custodian in any school district
Funds from this scholarship can be used for tuition, fees, and books.
Applicants must submit two letters of recommendations from individuals who are familiar with the applicant’s educational goals and personal attributes. At least one letter must be from a teacher/faculty member.
Applicants must submit a brief statement conveying how this scholarship will help  further your educational or career goals.

Question 22

Spencer Tarver Scholarship

Accepted Answer

This scholarship is accepting applications for the 2026 academic year.

This is a four-year scholarship valued at $80,000 ($20,000 per year), renewable annually upon submission of a brief academic year report and transcript approved by the Scholarship Committee. Under exceptional circumstances, this scholarship may be provided for a fifth year.

This is a need-based scholarship, which means it may only be awarded to disadvantaged or low-income students and will be assessed by examining such as family income and whether the applicant receives free/reduced lunch through their school. In the words of the donor, “This scholarship is for students who really want to get through college and who won’t be able to do it without this scholarship.”

This scholarship may be used for tuition, room and board, and books.

The following requirements must be met:
Applicants must be a graduating senior or graduate of South Kitsap School District intending to obtain a 4-year degree.
Applicants must be accepted into an accredited college, university, trade or vocational school.
Applicants must have a 3.0 GPA or greater but that is not so high that the student would likely obtain a full ride scholarship from their college or other source.

Applicants will be required to complete the application on www.WashBoard.org and submit 2-3 letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with their education and career goals. At least one letter of recommendation should be from a teacher or faculty member. An in-person interview will be required at the Kitsap Community Foundation’s office in Silverdale.

Question 23

Tracy Family Foundation Scholarship

Accepted Answer

In 1956, Darrel and Shirley Tracy established Tracy Realty and Insurance Service, Inc., which was located in downtown Poulsbo. For over 35 years, their business grew to include an insurance agency, real estate brokerage, WA State vehicle licensing office, and federal income tax preparation service. The couple's resourcefulness evolved into commercial real estate investments including the initial development of the current Royal Viking Home Park located on Lincoln Hill.

Their five children attended the local public schools and graduated from North Kitsap High School (Class of '63, '65, '68, '72, '78). Four children completed higher education and pursued professional careers. This endowment was created to thank the greater Poulsbo community for embracing the Tracy family. They value advanced education and desire to support others seeking similar opportunities.

A need-based scholarship (family income under $100,000 will be prioritized).
Applicants must be graduating seniors of North Kitsap High School.
Applicants must be accepted into an accredited community college, technical institute, or trade school and intend to pursue a hands-on, skilled trade or technical career. Eligible programs should provide vocational training or certification aligned with National Occupational Standards (NOS) and prepare students for employment in fields such as automotive repair, carpentry, culinary arts, electrical work, plumbing, welding, maritime trades, medical technology, dental hygiene, and similar occupations.
This scholarship does not support professional degree programs such as nursing or teaching. It is intended for students pursuing hands-on vocational or technical training in skilled trades.
Students may reapply for a second year.
Submit two letters of recommendations from individuals who are familiar with the applicant’s educational goals and personal attributes. At least one letter must be from a teacher/faculty member.
Brief essay or work history showing how this scholarship will help you further your educational or career goals.
Award amount: one scholarship up to $2,000.
Applicants must send a photo and thank you within 15 days of acceptance.

Question 24

West Sound Advanced Practice Association Scholarship

Accepted Answer

A need and merit-based scholarship for applicants focused on a nursing degree
Applicants must be currently residing in or on the Kitsap Peninsula, not including Pierce County
Applicants may be of any age
Applicants must be entering a nursing program, or a program that is a precursor to nursing, and intending to obtain a nursing degree or credential
Recipients may attend any post-secondary institution
Recipients may receive a scholarship for multiple years, but must re-apply each year
Award amount: two or more scholarships of $1,000, disbursed by committee

Question 25

Will Huck Memorial Scholarship

Accepted Answer

This scholarship will not be accepting applications for the 2026 academic year.

This scholarship has been created to memorialize Will Huck, who lost his life in a tragic drowning accident in 2021. Will had just graduated from Vashon High School and was college-bound. The family of Will Huck would like to provide a scholarship to someone who exemplifies all of Will's qualities. Someone funny, sweet, smart, and sarcastic that could go forth and honor the hopes and dreams that Will himself can no longer dream of.

This scholarship will be awarded and decided by Will's parents, as they are the ones who knew Will best. 
 
More information on applying for this scholarship coming soon. Applications are not currently being accepted.
 
To donate to this fund, please click here.

Question 26

Outright Gift

Accepted Answer

You can make a gift of cash, stocks, bonds, real estate, or other assets to the Community Foundation or your "fund" at the Foundation. Your charitable gift qualifies for the highest tax deduction allowed under federal law.

Question 27

Bequest by Will, Trust, or Beneficiary Designation

Accepted Answer

You can designate a gift or portion of your estate to the Community Foundation or your "fund" at the Foundation and, in some cases, receive a reduction in federal gift and estate taxes.
 
You can name the Community Foundation or your "fund" at the Foundation as a beneficiary of your life insurance policy or retirement accounts (IRA, 401(k), etc.).

Question 28

Charitable Gift Annuity

Accepted Answer

You can make a gift of cash or property to the Community Foundation or your "fund" at the Foundation now, get immediate tax benefits, and ensure that you or a loved one receive fixed quarterly or annual income payments for life.

Question 29

Charitable Remainder Trust

Accepted Answer

A donor may transfer assets to charitable remainder trust ("CRT") that provides a specified percent distribution to one or more (income) beneficiaries for life or a term of years with remainder interest paid to charity. Basically, a CRT allows you to set aside a large amount of money now and be assured that (A) you'll be paid a certain amount of money for the rest of your life and (B) the nonprofit you designate will be given all the money that is left when you pass away.
Two kinds of CRTs are:
CRUT:  A charitable remainder unitrust requires that the trust assets be revalued annually, typically changing the value of the unitrust payment, and allows for donors to make additional gifts to the trust.
CRAT:  A charitable remainder annuity trust does not provide for donors to make additional gifts to the trust and CRAT assets are not revalued annually, and income beneficiaries receive the original cash amount.

Question 30

Charitable Lead Trust

Accepted Answer

A donor may transfer assets to a charitable lead trust for a lifetime or term of years after which the remaining assets are distributed to the donor or other persons.

Question 31

Simple Bequests – Leaving Money Through Your Will or Trust

Accepted Answer

A bequest is made through your will or living trust. It is simple to establish and revocable. Donors who leave a bequest to a charity can take an estate tax deduction of 100 percent of the gift value. Your bequest can be stated as a set amount either of cash, securities, or other assets, or the "residue" or a "percentage of the residue" of your estate. The bequest can also be contingent. Sample bequest language can be found here.

Question 32

Charitable Remainder Trusts

Accepted Answer

A donor may transfer assets to charitable remainder trust ("CRT") that provides a specified percent distribution to 
one or more (income) beneficiaries for life or a term of years with remainder interest paid to charity. Basically, a CRT allows you to set aside a large amount of money now and be assured that (A) you'll be paid a certain amount of money for the rest of your life and (B) the nonprofit you designate will be given all the money that is left when you pass away.

Two kinds of CRTs are:
CRUT:  A charitable remainder unitrust requires that the trust assets be revalued annually, typically changing the value of the unitrust payment, and allows for donors to make additional gifts to the trust.
CRAT:  A charitable remainder annuity trust does not provide for donors to make additional gifts to the trust and CRAT assets are not revalued annually, and income beneficiaries receive the original cash amount.

Question 33

Charitable Lead Trusts

Accepted Answer

A donor may transfer assets to a charitable lead trust for a lifetime or term of years after which the remaining assets are distributed to the donor or other persons.

Question 34

Life Insurance/IRA Beneficiaries

Accepted Answer

In larger estates, the retirement fund assets distributed to family members may be "double taxed" — first subject to the donor's estate tax, then to income tax on the beneficiaries. IRA accounts listing the Community Foundation or your "fund" at the Community Foundation as the beneficiary are free of estate and income taxes.
 
Not only can the Community Foundation or your "fund" at the Foundation be named as the beneficiary of a life insurance policy, but you can transfer the policy irrevocably to the Foundation and claim an income tax deduction for the policy's cost basis or the cash surrender value, whichever is less. Any subsequent premium payments will be income-tax deductible.

Question 35

Cash Gifts

Accepted Answer

Cash, checks, or money orders made payable to Kitsap Community Foundation are common donations. These contributions are deductible up to 50% of your adjusted gross income with a five-year carryover for any excess.

Question 36

Smart, Non-Cash Gifts

Accepted Answer

By making a non-cash gift from your Donor-Advised Fund, stock portfolio, IRA, or even cryptocurrency, you can maximize the impact of your generosity while also enjoying potential tax benefits. Learn more and get started!

Question 37

Transfer the Assets of a Private Foundation

Accepted Answer

The expense and time of administering a private foundation can become an unwanted burden. Transferring the assets of a private foundation to a family foundation at the Community Foundation provides significant tax and administrative benefits. We will administer your family foundation using the structure of a donor-advised fund.
 
The board of a private foundation may transfer its assets to KCF to establish a donor advised fund or supporting organization. The private foundation may retain its name and philanthropic goals with no tax or penalty on the transfer.

Question 38

Bequests – Gifts Through Your Will or Trust

Accepted Answer

A bequest in your will, naming KCF as a beneficiary, is another ideal way to create a fund. Estate taxes may be significantly reduced, and the fund will continue to work as a living symbol of your interests.

Question 39

Life Insurance

Accepted Answer

If the protection of a life insurance policy is no longer needed, it may prove a practical, tax-deductible gift. Or you may retain ownership of a policy naming the Community Foundation or your "fund" at the Community Foundation as a beneficiary, resulting in an estate tax reduction, but no deduction for income tax purposes.

Question 40

Appreciated Property – Real Property & Securities

Accepted Answer

Gifts of appreciated securities or real estate often allow you to make a substantial contribution while receiving valuable income tax advantages. Generally, a donor may deduct the fair market value of the gift up to 30% of their adjusted gross income with a five-year carryover for any excess. Most importantly, the capital gain from the donated asset passes tax free to the Community Foundation or your "fund" at the Community Foundation.

Question 41

Other Gift Types

Accepted Answer

Additional gifting choices include stock in privately held companies, limited partnerships and company stock options, with the exclusion of employee stock options. Personal property and other assets may also be excellent contributions.
 
If you plan to make a major gift, we recommend you work with your accountant, attorney, or other financial advisor to determine what assets make the most sense for you to give.  Few people are motivated to give because of the tax deduction, but the simplicity of giving through a community foundation affords an excellent opportunity to maximize your charitable tax benefits.
 
Please contact us by email at info@kitsapfoundation.org or phone (360) 698-3622 for information regarding these gift opportunities.

Question 42

Family Foundation

Accepted Answer

Does your client want to establish a family foundation?  Or maybe your client simply wants to set up a charitable fund that they can use to make donations every year.  Although they might not think of it as such, that is a family foundation.  
 
We can do this for your client.  In fact, the cheapest, easiest, and most effective way to create a family foundation is to set up your family foundation within the Community Foundation.
 
We build your client's family foundation on the structure of a donor advised fund.  Basically, your client contributes assets to their fund/foundation whenever they want and as often as they want, we administer every aspect of the Foundation, and all your client has to do is tell us what organizations they'd like to make donations to and when they'd like to do that.

Question 43

Supporting Organization

Accepted Answer

A  supporting organization is a separate nonprofit corporation that qualifies as a public charity through its affiliation with the Kitsap Community Foundation. It is established by an individual, family or business with a gift of at least $500K. We provide an array of philanthropic and administrative services to make the giving experience simple and enjoyable.
A supporting organization is:
An excellent alternative to a private foundation
Fewer administrative responsibilities
Lower cost
Select some board members, which may include family members
Maintain personal involvement
Retain your identity
Support cherished causes
Our skilled Finance & Investment Team will provide world class support

Question 44

Donor Advised Fund

Accepted Answer

Please see the description directly above for "family foundation."  We refer to donor advised funds at Kitsap Community Foundation as family foundations.

Question 45

Unrestricted Funds

Accepted Answer

Maybe your client just wants to make a large gift or leave a legacy for the general support of the community.  Your client doesn't want to pick and choose particular nonprofits.  If that's the case, then an unrestricted fund is what your client wants.  We run an annual "competitive grant program" that accepts applications from any nonprofit in the community.  Through that process each year, we'll decide the best way to use the income from your client's fund.  In this way, your client can be assured that their donation will support a wide range of the highest community needs, including education and culture, health, environment, and social and civic services.

Question 46

KCF Operating Fund

Accepted Answer

Maybe your client believes deeply in the Community Foundation's work and understand that supporting the Community Foundation is a way to support all nonprofits and, thereby, support the entire community.  If that's the case, you client can donate to or leave a bequest to the Foundation's own Operating Fund.  This is an endowment fund that will exist forever to support the work of the Community Foundation.  This is a simple way to leave a gift that will support the entire community forever -- a true legacy.

Question 47

Designated Funds

Accepted Answer

Maybe your client is interested in donating to just one or a few specific nonprofits.  If that's the case, then your client is looking for a "designated fund."  With this type of fund, your client donates assets into the fund now or through their estate and the Community Foundation then distributes those funds to the specific nonprofits designated by your client.  
 
We can manage this as an endowed fund, which means it will exist forever and we'll distribute income to the designated nonprofit(s) each year. Or we can manage this so that we distribute a particular amount to each nonprofit each year and spend down the entire fund within a certain number of years.  
 
Should the designated organization(s) cease to exist or the purpose it served become obsolete over the years, the Foundation has the responsibility to reallocate the fund to a similar organization to continue to reflect your client's wishes.

Question 48

Field-of-Interest Funds

Accepted Answer

Let's say your client wants to donate a sum of money now or through their estate that will support a certain type of charitable activity or area of nonprofit work.  For instance, maybe your client wants their legacy to provide assistance to handicapped people, counseling programs for veterans, support for the arts, education, etc.
 
In this case, your client is looking for what we call a "field-of-interest fund."  With this fund, the Foundation, acting through its staff, Grant Committee, and Board of Directors, will seek out and select the community agencies which best serve the purpose specified by your client. Or, if you're client would like, your client can work with us to decide which particular nonprofits we should donate to each year.
 
We can manage his as an endowed fund, which means it will exist forever and we'll distribute income to appropriate nonprofit(s) each year. Or we can manage this so that we distribute a particular amount to appropriate nonprofits each year and spend down the entire fund within a certain number of years.

Question 49

Scholarship Funds

Accepted Answer

These funds enable deserving young people to get the education they might not otherwise receive. We prefer flexibility so we can meet the greatest needs, but your client can, if they choose, specify:  either the schools the students are to come from or the ones they are to attend; their course of study or career path; any level of post highschool training, either university, college, or vocational school; whether the scholarship is need-based or merit-based; etc.
 
Your client can create a scholarship in their name or the name of a loved one. We will ensure the scholarship conforms to the strict standards of impartiality and integrity. Your client can be involved in choosing the scholarship recipients each year or leave it to our Scholarship Committee.
 
We can manage the scholarship as an endowed fund, which means it will exist forever and we'll award scholarships each year. Or we can manage this so that we distribute a particular amount in scholarships each year and spend down the entire fund within a certain number of years.

Question 50

Agency Fund

Accepted Answer

Maybe your client is a nonprofit organization that is going to receive a large bequest and wants to set up an endowment fund for itself. Unless it's a seven-figure endowment, it's most effective and efficient to set up the endowment with the Community Foundation.  
 
A nonprofit organization may establish an endowment fund at KCF with the income restricted to support of that particular nonprofit. This is similar to a designated fund, and is typically created by the non-profit rather than by a donor. Donors find reassurance in knowing that KCF provides the stability, expertise and credibility to administer an endowment fund in perpetuity.

Question 51

Pass-Through Funds

Accepted Answer

What if your client wants to make a large gift to single nonprofit or a set of nonprofits in a short time-frame?  We can help them with that by setting up what we call a "pass-through fund."  We would enter into an agreement with your client that directs the nonprofit(s) to which we must distribute your clients funds and the timeframe within which we must make the distribution(s).  
 
There are lots of reasons why this type of fund can be useful to your clients:  
 
When your clients gives through the Community Foundation, their gifts can be completely anonymous. This helps protect your clients from unsolicited mailings and emails.
We can be a "charitable bank account" through which your clients donate to all their favorite nonprofits each year.  Benefits are:  (1) this generates only one tax deduction receipt each year, which simplifes record-keeping and tax return preparation; (2) they can log into their charitable "account" at any time to see exactly who they've already donated to this year; (3) we send all the checks to the nonprofits; all your client needs to do is tell us who they want to donate to and we take care of it.
We can handle all types of gifts -- cash, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, IRAs, real estate, cars, art, etc.  Many nonprofits can not handle this full range of gifts.  And we can take a large, undividable gift (such as a piece of real property), sell it, and divide the proceeds out to numerous nonprofits on your clients' behalf.  
We can negotiate and draft a Grant Agreement with a nonprofit to which your client wants to donate a large sum of money, including multi-year pledges. This gives your client added protection to make sure their gift is used appropriately.

Question 52

What is it?

Accepted Answer

A way for women interested in charitable giving to enjoy each other’s company while learning about topics important to them and pooling a bit of their money to help their community.

Question 53

How can my nonprofit get a grant?

Accepted Answer

We are updating eligibility and restrictions for 2020. Here is our 2019 document.
 
Access to the Program/Project Grant Application will be available online at www.commongrantapplication.com beginning Friday, January 3, 2020. 
 
Grant applications will be accepted from January 3, 2020 - January 24, 2020 at 5 pm.

Question 54

Who can take part?

Accepted Answer

Any woman in the Kitsap peninsula who donates at least $1,000 annually to the Women’s Giving Circle Fund.

Question 55

What if I want to join, but don't have $1,000?"

Accepted Answer

We know that just because you care about your community doesn't mean you have $1,000 to spend every year. So, we've created alternative options.
 
Alternative Option 1: Split-interest Membership
Up to four women may “split” a membership by joining together to donate the $1,000 needed for an annual membership. Each woman who contributes a portion of the annual $1,000 membership dues will be considered a Member and invited to all Circle gatherings for the applicable calendar year. However, the women who join together for a split-interest membership will only have one vote between them on all matters voted on by the Circle.
 
Alternative Option 2: Sponsored Membership
Any Member may sponsor a particular woman (or women) chosen by the Member by paying the annual membership dues for that woman. Only KCF will know if a woman has a sponsored membership.

Question 56

Why should I join?

Accepted Answer

Women are excellent collaborators. When we pool our resources - economic, intellectual, and creative - we create positive change in our communities. Coming together to learn about needs of our fellow women and help meet those needs is a powerful way to improve lives.
 
When you join, you get:
• To collaborate and network with a diverse group of generous women 
• To learn about community issues and effective philanthropy
• To share the joy of giving and have a say in how your gift is used

Question 57

What about younger women and girls?

Accepted Answer

Involving multiple generations is meaningful. So every member of the Circle can bring one girl or younger woman with them to the gatherings.

Question 58

How is your $1,000 annual donation used?"

Accepted Answer

The money donated by all of the members will be put into the Women’s Giving Circle Fund at the Kitsap Community Foundation. The majority of the money will be donated out to one or more nonprofits chosen by the Circle. A portion of the money will be used by the Foundation to pay the costs of the gatherings and pay itself a reasonable administration fee.

Question 59

Are there meetings?

Accepted Answer

We call them gatherings. The Circle will have quarterly gatherings (4 per year) and decide upon grant recipients in March.

Question 60

What happens at a gathering?

Accepted Answer

Time to socialize. Time for a short presentation. Time to talk about what charitable grants the Circle wants to make.

Question 61

Who decides which nonprofits get grants?

Accepted Answer

You do. At the gatherings, the Circle members will talk about what types of nonprofits they want to make grants to. Once each year, the Foundation will bring grant proposals to the gatherings, and the members present will vote on which grants to make.

Question 62

Will the Circle’s giving focus on women’s issues?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We want to support change and opportunities for women in our community through our collective giving. The Circle's focus is helping women and children living in the Kitsap Peninsula.

Question 63

What topics will the presentations cover?

Accepted Answer

It’s up to the Circle to decide. Potential topics include topics of interest to higher-net-worth women, such as how to prepare your children to manage wealth, and presentations about particular types of nonprofit work or particular nonprofits that the Circle might want to fund. Or maybe the Circle would rather not have presentations, but meet and greets with local organizations supporting and empowering women. Join us and help decide!

Question 64

Where and what time of day are the gatherings?

Accepted Answer

It’s up to the Circle to decide!

Alan and Ellen Newberg Scholarships

2025

Bill and Sandra Walgren Scholarships

2024

2023

Bremerton High School Pay It Forward Scholarship

2022

Charles and Dorothy Martell Family Music Scholarship

Danford and Frances Moore Engineering Scholarship

2021

2020

Fred and Marvel Hill Scholarship

Gordon Stenerson Memorial Scholarship

Judge Chavelle Scholarships

Kitsap Foster Care Recipients Scholarship

Marcia Hunter van Court Music Scholarship

Maria Mercedes Mackovjak Memorial Artist Scholarship

Marie A. Barker Teaching Scholarship

Nicole (Lyle) Tranilla Memorial Scholarship

Orchard Foods Scholarship

Shirley Hecker Memorial Scholarship

Spencer Tarver Scholarship

Tracy Family Foundation Scholarship

West Sound Advanced Practice Association Scholarship

Will Huck Memorial Scholarship

Outright Gift

Bequest by Will, Trust, or Beneficiary Designation

Charitable Gift Annuity

Charitable Remainder Trust

Charitable Lead Trust

Simple Bequests – Leaving Money Through Your Will or Trust

Charitable Remainder Trusts

Charitable Lead Trusts

Life Insurance/IRA Beneficiaries

Cash Gifts

Smart, Non-Cash Gifts

Transfer the Assets of a Private Foundation

Bequests – Gifts Through Your Will or Trust

Life Insurance

Appreciated Property – Real Property &amp; Securities

Other Gift Types

Family Foundation

Supporting Organization

Donor Advised Fund

Unrestricted Funds

KCF Operating Fund

Designated Funds

Field-of-Interest Funds

Scholarship Funds

Agency Fund

Pass-Through Funds

What is it?

How can my nonprofit get a grant?

Who can take part?

What if I want to join, but don't have $1,000?"

Why should I join?

What about younger women and girls?

How is your $1,000 annual donation used?"

Are there meetings?

What happens at a gathering?

Who decides which nonprofits get grants?

Will the Circle’s giving focus on women’s issues?

What topics will the presentations cover?

Where and what time of day are the gatherings?

Leadership

What is it?

How can my nonprofit get a grant?

Who can take part?

What if I want to join, but don't have $1,000?

Why should I join?

Is there an age requirement to join or attend events?

How is your $1,000 annual donation used?

Are there meetings?

What happens at a gathering?

Who decides which nonprofits get grants?

Will the Circle’s giving focus on women’s issues?

What topics will the presentations cover?

Where and what time of day are the gatherings?

Who Leads the Women's Giving Circle?

Instructions to Upload your Report

Appreciated Property – Real Property & Securities