Uncertain times often cause people to pause and reassess. Whether the uncertainty comes from markets, employment changes, health concerns, or the general feeling that the world is unpredictable, it is natural to wonder what this means for your financial plan. For many donors, that uncertainty also raises a question about charitable giving: Should I slow down, stop, or continue?
There is no single right answer, and IECF will never suggest that you give beyond what feels sustainable. At the same time, many donors discover that the choice is not simply “give as usual” or “stop entirely.” Often, the best approach is to adjust your plan in a way that preserves generosity while matching your current reality.
Please reach out to the team at IECF to evaluate strategies that are the best fit for you. For example:
–For many people, pacing is a practical strategy. In other words, instead of making one large gift, you might spread gifts across the year or across multiple years.
–Adjusting how much you give is always an option. Some donors shift from larger one-time gifts to steady recurring gifts because it feels easier to manage. Other donors do the opposite: they make an early-year gift when they feel confident and then reassess later.
–Some donors choose to continue supporting a core group of organizations while reducing the number of additional gifts they make.
–Other donors focus on supporting immediate and urgent needs identified by IECF, and then returning to broader giving later.
For people who have established a fund at IECF, flexibility is often one of the biggest benefits. If you use a donor-advised fund, you can contribute when it makes sense for your situation, then recommend grants over time. If you prefer a more defined approach, other types of funds may provide the structure you want while still allowing you to respond to changing community needs.
Uncertainty can also be a moment to revisit why you give. Many donors find that charitable giving is one of the most grounding parts of their lives when things feel unsettled. Giving can be a way to stay connected to the community, reinforce values, and help stabilize organizations that serve people who are struggling. For that reason, some donors choose to continue giving even if they adjust the pace or the focus.
IECF is here to help you think through these choices without pressure. We can help you evaluate options that fit your goals, connect you with information about community needs, and support you in building a plan that feels both meaningful and sustainable. If you are feeling uncertain, reach out. Often, a brief conversation can clarify what generosity can look like in this season—and help you feel confident about your next step.
Please reach out to our Charitable Giving Team anytime. Stay up to date on all the good work we’re doing through the power of philanthropy – sign up for our eNewsletter, Philanthropy Matters, today.
The team at the community foundation is honored to serve as a resource and sounding board as you build your charitable plans and pursue your philanthropic objectives for making a difference in the community. This newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, accounting, or financial planning advice. Please consult your tax or legal advisor to learn how this information might apply to your own situation.
