When it comes to charitable giving, donor-advised funds (DAFs) are one of the most powerful and flexible tools available. They allow you to make a charitable contribution, receive an immediate tax benefit, and then recommend grants to your favorite causes over time—all while your donation grows tax-free.

At Value Partners Charitable Foundation, we help Canadians give with purpose. Here’s why more families are choosing to set up their own donor-advised fund with us:

1. Give with Purpose—Without the Paperwork

Many families dream of starting their own private foundation, only to discover the administrative burden that comes with it: forming a board, filing with the CRA, managing compliance, and carrying legal liability.

A donor-advised fund offers the same philanthropic impact—without the complexity. We handle all the administration, reporting, due diligence, and legal responsibilities so you can focus on what matters: making a difference.

2. Flexibility to Give More Than Just Cash

DAFs aren’t limited to cash donations. You can contribute publicly traded securities, mutual funds, private company shares, or even life insurance policies. Not all charities can accept these types of gifts directly—but we can. That means you can support the causes you care about in the most tax-efficient way possible.

3. You Stay in Control

With a donor-advised fund, you decide which charities to support and when. If your values or priorities shift over time, your giving can evolve with you. You can also involve your family in the decision-making process, creating a shared legacy of generosity.

4. Maximize Your Tax Benefits

DAFs offer immediate tax deductions, and your contributions grow tax-free. Donating appreciated securities can help minimize capital gains taxes, and if you're selling a business, a DAF can be part of a smart, tax-efficient exit strategy.

You can also carry forward your donation receipt for up to five years—giving you flexibility to claim it when it’s most beneficial. And while you’re only required to grant 5% of the fund’s value annually, there’s no cap on how much you can give.

5. Support Multiple Causes with One Gift

Want to support several charities at once? A DAF makes it easy. You make one contribution, and we’ll distribute grants to the organizations you choose—when you choose. It’s simple, streamlined, and impactful.

6. Create a Legacy That Lasts

A donor-advised fund is a powerful way to involve your children and grandchildren in your values. Many families find that this shared experience deepens their connection and inspires the next generation to build wealth with purpose.

You can name a successor advisor to continue your giving, or direct final grants to specific charities. You can even name your DAF as a beneficiary in your will, RRIF, or life insurance policy—creating a lasting legacy and reducing estate taxes.

Ready to Give with Purpose?

At Value Partners Charitable Foundation, we help you give strategically—so you can support the causes you care about, reduce your tax burden, and build a legacy your family will be proud of.

Let’s talk about how a donor-advised fund could fit into your financial plan. Reach out to your advisor or investment counsellor today.