Our Advising
Philanthropic Advising
Since 1988, Common Counsel Foundation (CCF) has partnered with families and donors across the U.S. to shift power and resources to grassroots movements leading at the intersection of racial, economic, gender, environmental, and social justice. Our national philanthropic advising program includes both donor advised funds (DAFs) and family foundation advising. By partnering with CCF’s philanthropic advising programs, you join a community of values-aligned donors committed to centering and empowering movements.
A DAF is a simple, flexible giving vehicle that allows you to easily support the inspiring movement organizations that you care about. CCF DAFs offer: philanthropic advising grounded in deep community trust, flexible grantmaking strategies responsive to current movement needs, full backend support including due diligence and compliance screens, immediate tax benefits, donor anonymity, and more!
What sets CCF apart from other DAF providers?
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- Movement-Aligned: CCF’s expert advisors are also frontline community organizers who can help donors develop or sharpen your giving plan or grantmaking docket that reflects the priorities and shared values of frontline communities.
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- Expanded Giving Flexibility: While most DAF providers prohibit funding non-501(c)3 organizations, CCF is happy to work with you whenever possible on funding eligible 501(c)4, international, tribal, and other types of organizations for an additional cost. This offering sets CCF’s DAFs apart, supporting donors who move resources across a variety of strategies and geographies.
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- Nimble, Community-Responsive Approach: Our team is equipped to support timely, targeted giving during moments of movement urgency or opportunity with minimal administrative or bureaucratic layers.
How do CCF’s DAFs work?
Establishing your DAF is simple:
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- You contribute assets (cash, stock, etc.) to your DAF at CCF, which stewards the funds
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- You recommend grants to movement groups with CCF’s support
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- CCF distributes grant funds, taking care of the paperwork and administration
Independent of our DAF program, CCF also offers tailored philanthropic advising support to family foundations. Our expert, movement-rooted advisors are equipped to support family foundations on aligned grantmaking, weaving up-to-date local and national movement analysis from a wide range of frontline issues into your foundation’s grantmaking, supporting next generation transitions, ensuring your support has the highest impact. We can also advise your foundation on aligning your practices with movement values while also confirming your foundation meets shifting compliance standards. Reach out if you’d like to explore partnering with CCF to support your family foundation.
Learn About CCF’s Philanthropic Advising
If you’re interested in CCF’s philanthropic advising,
please contact [email protected] to set up an interest call.