Donor Benefits   Simplicity The Foundation simplifies charitable giving. One gift can help a specific charity or a broad range of interests. Permanence Many donors create endowment funds to benefit the community in perpetuity. If the original purpose of a fund becomes obsolete, the Foundation’s Board of Trustees can redirect the gift to a similar goal through the use of a variance power. This variance power is a distinguishing characteristic of Community Foundations and assures donors that their intentions will always be fulfilled despite changing circumstances. Tax Benefits The Community Foundation is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a public charity and offers the highest level of tax benefits. Donors may give cash, stock, closely held securities, real estate, or personal property and receive maximum tax benefits. Informed Philanthropy Gifts to the Foundation keep pace with the changing times. The Foundation is in the business of evaluating ideas and projects, as well as the charitable needs of the local area. This expertise provides many opportunities for donors’ gifts to make a positive difference in the lives of many. Recognition or Not Donors establishing funds in the Foundation may name their funds and advise the Trustees of their charitable interests. While most funds bear the name of individuals, families or organizations, funds may also be anonymous. Cost Effectiveness The Community Foundation of Greater Rochester professionally manages more than 100 funds. Working together, the Foundation, local banks and investment managers invest individual gifts and bequests as a pool of funds, to achieve significant economy of scale in both investment and administration. Public Accountability Annual reporting through an independent audit, annual state and Federal filings, disclosure of grant activities and careful selection of the Board of Trustees assures continued use of funds for the public interest.