Discover the Power of Donor-Advised Funds

Each August, communities across the country recognize DAF Awareness Week—a time to highlight one of the most popular and powerful ways people give back: Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs).

DAFs allow you to make a charitable contribution, receive an immediate tax deduction, and then recommend grants to the causes you care about most—either right away or over time. They simplify giving, provide flexibility, and can even grow your charitable dollars through investment.

But here’s the important truth: DAFs aren’t for everyone. Like any financial tool, they work best in certain situations. We always encourage donors to talk with a trusted financial or tax adviser about whether a DAF is the right fit.

🌱 A Community Foundation Legacy
What many people don’t realize is that Donor-Advised Funds actually began with community foundations. The first DAFs were established in the early 20th century as a way for everyday people—not just major philanthropists—to pool resources and direct them locally. Over time, DAFs expanded nationally and are now the fastest-growing charitable giving vehicle in the United States.

At the Kirkland Community Foundation, hosting DAFs is a vital part of our mission. It’s how we help neighbors like you channel generosity back into Kirkland—supporting local nonprofits, projects, and initiatives that make our city a healthy, vibrant, and sustainable place to live.

💡 5 Signs a DAF May Be Right for You

  • You want to simplify your giving with one contribution that can support many nonprofits.

  • You’re interested in maximizing tax advantages while supporting the causes you love.

  • You’d like the flexibility to give now, later, or over time.

  • You value the option to grow your charitable dollars tax-free through investment.

  • You want a way to involve your family in philanthropy and create a lasting tradition of giving.

Want to Learn More?
DAF Awareness Week in August is the perfect opportunity to explore how this tool can shape your giving. Visit our Donor-Advised Funds page to learn more, and if you’re curious about whether opening a DAF with the Kirkland Community Foundation could be right for you, we’d love to connect.

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Kirkland WA 98033

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Spark Something Good - with the Kirkland Community Foundation

At the Kirkland Community Foundation, we serve as conveners, catalysts, and collaborators - and we know that new ideas need fuel to catch spark. That’s why we’ve created this space to hear from you.

Whether you’re ready to move forward with a community idea that shows the love in Kirkland, are seeking a small Spark Grant to bring something to life, or feel inspired to support a future project - you’re in the right place.

Let us know how you'd like to get involved, and someone from our team will follow up soon. Together, we can spark something good.
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Community Project Letter of Interest

Kirkland Community Foundation has long served as the hub for successful projects inititated by members of our community, including the Save Our Salmon mural and the Waverly Beach Picnic Shelter. Have an idea for a project? Please complete this form as an initial step in the process, and we'll be in touch!

The story behind your idea —

Share what inspired you and what you hope to accomplish. Please include:

  • A description of your project and why it’s important
  • Who will benefit and how it will make a difference
  • Any partners, volunteers, or organizations involved
  • How this project aligns with KCF’s mission and areas of impact
  • Whether there are any time-sensitive elements
  • Let us know what type of support you’re seeking: visibility, fundraising assistance, strategic guidance, or fiscal sponsorship. If requesting fundraising or fiscal sponsorship, please include an estimated budget or cost of the project.

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    Thank you for your interest in serving on our board of directors.

    We are seeking passionate and dedicated individuals who share a strong commitment to the Kirkland community to join our board of directors. Board members play a vital role in shaping the organization's direction and ensuring its long-term success. Please complete the following form to express your interest in serving on our board. We are dedicated to the commitment that our board should reflect the diversity of our community.

    Have you served on the board of a nonprofit organization before?*

    Please reach out to us with any inquiries or comments. We'd love to hear from you.