What Is a Donor-Advised Fund?

A Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) is a flexible and efficient way to support the causes that matter most to you. Think of it as a charitable giving account—one where you can make contributions of cash, securities, or other assets, receive an immediate tax deduction, and recommend grants to nonprofits like the Rockford Symphony Orchestra over time.

DAFs are one of the fastest-growing tools for philanthropy due to their simplicity, tax advantages, and ability to grow charitable dollars through investment.

How Does a Donor-Advised Fund Work?

To begin, you make an irrevocable contribution to a DAF through a sponsoring entity, such as a financial institution, community foundation, or nonprofit. You’ll receive a tax receipt at the time of the contribution, and the assets you contribute can grow tax-free while remaining in the fund.

Although the sponsoring organization takes legal ownership of the contributed assets, you—as the donor—maintain advisory privileges. This means you can suggest how the funds should be invested and when to recommend grants to qualified 501(c)(3) public charities like the Rockford Symphony Orchestra.

Once the sponsoring organization approves your recommendation, the donation is distributed to your chosen nonprofit.

Why Give to RSO Through a Donor-Advised Fund?

•    Make a greater impact by planning your giving over time.

•    Build a charitable legacy that reflects your personal passions.

•    Enjoy tax benefits right away, even if you decide to give later.

•    Streamline your giving by managing all donations in one place.

•    Maximize deductions by combining multiple contributions—especially appreciated assets like stocks—into a single DAF gift.

Ready to give now?

Use the secure tool below to recommend a grant directly from your DAF account. It’s fast, safe, and helps bring music to the Rockford community.

If you have a DAF and would like to recommend a grant to the Rockford Symphony Orchestra, our legal name is:

Rockford Symphony Orchestras, Inc.
EIN: 36-6109375
Address: 711 N. Main Street, Rockford, IL 61103
Phone: (815) 965-0049