There are two vehicles that most donors consider when they are interested in involving their families in shared, multi-generational philanthropy: establishing a donor advised fund (DAF) at a community foundation or through a financial institution, or creating a private foundation. This article introduces the key questions donors should ask when choosing between these two common options.

Before you choose your giving structure, be sure you try putting your toe in the water of organized giving to see if you like it. The easiest way is to join a network of individuals giving jointly – either a giving circle, a public foundation such as Social Venture Partners, a Women’s fund, or simply write more targeted or larger personal checks. The personal check feels just as good, and it may do just as much good as a check drawn on a private foundation account or from a DAF.

Read the full article about becoming a family philanthropist by Julia Kittross at the National Center for Family Philanthropy.