FAQs

What makes Lucia Charitable unique?

Those with financial means will naturally wish to see some part of their means used to benefit others in a meaningful way. We understand that as simple as this sounds, it can be complicated. What is the best way to give? How can you give in ways that are transformative, uplifting, and sustainable—and that don’t create unhealthy dependency or enable poor stewardship within receiving organizations? Fundamentally, what makes Lucia Charitable unique is our commitment to walking with you through these and other questions as a thoughtful partner who understands and is aligned with your goals. We are also dedicated to encouraging philanthropy, helping philanthropists encourage each other, and fostering collaboration amongst philanthropists.

How do I create a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) at Lucia Charitable?

A simple DAF Agreement and funding is all that’s required. To get started with a DAF at Lucia Charitable, simply click the Open a Fund tab on our website or email us at connect@luciacharitable.com and let us know what you have in mind and any questions you have, and we’ll get to work. We’re here to guide you through each step and ensure everything is set up to support your charitable goals.

Can I fund a DAF at Lucia Charitable with assets other than cash?

Yes, absolutely! We accept a variety of asset types beyond cash, including securities, real estate, business interests, and other non-cash assets. Funding your DAF with non-cash assets may offer additional tax benefits, so we encourage you to reach out to our team for more details.

Can you help me convert an existing private foundation into a DAF at Lucia Charitable?

We’d be happy to assist with the transition of a private foundation to a DAF. Please email a copy of the foundation’s trust instrument or articles and bylaws, along with a summary of its assets, to connect@luciacharitable.com, and we’ll get started.

Can a private foundation or charitable trust have its own DAF at Lucia Charitable?

Yes, a private foundation or charitable trust can establish its own DAF at Lucia Charitable. This option can offer flexibility in managing charitable distributions while also simplifying administrative responsibilities within the private foundation. Our team can work with your foundation to set up a DAF aligned with your charitable objectives and compliance needs.

What if I want to involve my family or friends in helping recommend distributions from a DAF that I create and fund?

Great idea! Involving others in philanthropy can be an excellent way to carry on traditions, pass on values and perspectives, and strengthen family ties. Lucia Charitable would be honored to help you in this regard by helping you formally appoint or designate additional donor fund advisers or set up the mechanisms to do so at some later point.

Is there a minimum size for a DAF at Lucia Charitable?

While there’s no minimum size for a DAF generally, Lucia Charitable’s personalized approach to service and management is ideally suited for DAFs of $1,000,000 or more.

How much does it cost to have a DAF at Lucia Charitable?

There is no fee to establish a DAF at Lucia Charitable. Our structure is designed to prioritize effective, impactful giving without initial setup costs.

For ongoing administration and management, our typical administrative fee is only 0.5% annually.

What sorts of causes can be supported with distributions from a DAF?

A DAF at Lucia Charitable can support a wide range of charitable causes, from local community initiatives to international humanitarian efforts. Distributions to any organization recognized as a charity by the IRS are routine and easy. Distributions to other organizations for charitable causes, such as making distributions directly to an overseas organization that hasn’t been given charitable status by the IRS, are not impossible, but making these sorts of distributions requires additional oversight, called expenditure responsibility, on our part.

Are there causes that can’t be supported with distributions from a DAF?

Yes, there are a few limitations. DAF distributions cannot be used to fulfill pledges, support political campaigns, or benefit specific individuals. Our team can help clarify any questions you may have and ensure your recommendations align with applicable charitable regulations.

Do you help donors track their DAF giving?

Yes! We offer tools and support to help donors track charitable giving through their DAF, making it easy to keep records of distributions, schedule distributions, and proactively manage giving goals.

Can you help donors find charitable causes to recommend donations to?

Absolutely. Our team is here to support you in finding meaningful charitable causes that align with your values. Whether you have specific areas of interest or are looking for new opportunities, we can provide recommendations and insights to enhance your giving.

Why do you call it Lucia Charitable?

Lucia Charitable is named after Saint Lucia, an early Christian martyr known for her faith and compassion. She dedicated her resources to the poor, inspiring others with her example of selfless generosity and commitment to making a difference in her lifetime. Her legacy aligns with our mission to promote active stewardship and impactful giving.

Lucia Charitable is inspired by Christian values, but we’re here to serve donors of all backgrounds who share a commitment to transformative generosity. Our approach is rooted in respect for the dignity inherent in all and the universal values of compassion and care for others. We welcome and support all charitable giving that promotes restoration to wholeness and flourishing.