A Supporting Organization (SO) is a legal entity that allows an individual donor, family, or corporation to recommend grants to charities and/or perform ministry work at the same time.  An SO is a charitable organization created under 501(c)(3) laws and regulations that enjoys the tax benefits of a public charity but with fewer IRS restrictions than a private foundation.  

You retain some of the control in grant making while accessing administrative, grants management, and investment management support from an outside entity (called a Supported Organization) – such as CFF.  (In this case, ultimate grantmaking control rests with CFF.)  An SO can have full-time employees; provide benefits, such as a health plan and retirement plan; and provide for a degree of family control and succession. 

A Supporting Organization working in tandem with your CFF Giving Fund may be the best solution to your giving goals and objectives.

Learn about the differences between donor advised funds, supporting organizations, and private foundations by reading our comparison chart.