Corporations are often inundated with requests for contributions, which may result in an unfocused program of corporate giving. Corporate donations may depend upon the executive being contacted by a particular charity and, therefore, may vary from year to year. Some corporations may be unsure of the charitable dollars they will have available. In addition, a corporation may wish to focus on a particular community problem but discover that the administrative time and effort required to do so are cost-prohibitive.

By setting up a fund within the Southern Tier West Development Foundation, corporations can simplify and focus the giving process. Corporate staff is freed from the administrative details of charitable giving and may choose their level of involvement in grant making. Foundation staff members provide technical assistance and grantmaking services at a low cost and handle all administrative paperwork, check writing and investment oversight. Ideally, the corporation will be able to expand its giving programs without increasing staff commitments.

A corporate donor advised fund provides a dependable stream of income to meet the company's charitable obligations, even during years when cash flow is tight. In good times, the company can add to the fund. This provides flexibility to even out the peaks and valleys inherent in most businesses' financial fortunes.

As yet another advantage, the Foundation offers in-depth knowledge of the Southern Tier West area, particularly in terms of major trends and issues affecting the nonprofit and local government sector. The Foundation staff, comprised of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences, is familiar with the region and can offer valuable insight.

After establishing a fund, a corporation can request the Southern Tier West Development Foundation to distribute either principal, income or a combination at various times throughout the year. Further, the corporation may make suggestions to the Foundation's Board of Directors as to specific grantees; it may ask the Foundation to follow specific guidelines in grantmaking from its fund; or it may give the Board of Directors discretion over disbursements.

CORPORATE DONOR ADVISED FUNDS INSTRUCTIONS . . .
CORPORATE DONOR ADVISED FUND AGREEMENT .
CORPORATE DONOR ADVISED FUND APPLICATION . . .