Frequently Asked Questions

• How does a permanent endowment fund work?

  When funds are established with the Victoria Foundation, the principal is held in perpetuity. A portion of the annual investment returns is granted to causes of your choice. The balance of the investment return is added back into the permanent fund which allows the fund to grow over time. As the endowment grows, so does your ability to grant to causes or charities of your choice.

• Do donations to the fund qualify for tax receipts?

  Yes! All donations, including your initial contributions or contributions by others, will qualify for a tax receipt.

• When can I start making grants?

  If you complete your total donation of $5,000 to your fund by September 30th of the current year, then you can make your first grant the following year.

• Can other people contribute to the fund?

  Absolutely! Anyone can contribute to the fund. They just need to make sure that they provide the fund name when completing the donation. We can even create your own custom donation form and webpage! Send us an email for more details.

• Do I need to attend all the events in the program?

  We hope that new members attend all sessions in the core program. Participants can also take part in many optional events, such as the Vital Signs launch, a Donor Tea at Government House, and other learning workshops and networking events. Don’t worry – if you’re unable to make it, we’ll provide you with resources after each event.

• Can children and family participate in the events and activities?

  Yes! Throughout the program, many of our events will be family focused, and children will be encouraged to attend. Unless we specify otherwise, due to limited space, you are always welcome to bring another family member or guest along.

• Will all events be in-person, or will there be online options too?

  After the pandemic, everyone was eager to return to in-person events; however, as the program evolves, we’re learning that members would like the option to attend online events as well. As we plan for future sessions, we will definitely explore including some online programming.

• Am I able to close or transfer my fund to another institution or foundation if I move away?

  The initial gift and any future gifts to the fund are held in perpetuity as an asset of the Foundation for the purposes of the fund as agreed upon by the donor and the Foundation.

• What is the usual timing for events?

  Most events are held at the end of the workday for 1.5-2 hours. On occasion, there are weekend or midday events that you could attend on your lunch break.

• Will I be able to socialize, form relationships, and have some fun? Or is it all learning?

  You will absolutely have fun! At every event we leave time for socializing. A key part of the Gadsden experience is to get to know your other members and make connections – both through philanthropy and your personal interests. We definitely want you to have fun while you learn!

• Do I have any input to session programming?

  Yes! We are always interested in knowing what you’d like to explore on your philanthropy journey. If you have a cause area that you’re passionate about or an idea that you’d like to delve into more deeply, chances are that other members will be just as interested.

• I have questions about my fund/the program/philanthropy, but I don’t feel comfortable speaking up at events. Are you ever available to talk one on one?

  The events are great for networking, but we actually learn the most about you and your interests through conversations over a cup of coffee or a video call. We’re always available to chat so let’s set something up.

• I’d like more hands-on volunteering experience with non-profits and charities I may care about. Can the Gadsden Initiative help me find those opportunities?

  Yes! Several of our members have gone on to have further involvement with the organizations they’re introduced to. We will always share resources about who you can contact to find out what opportunities exist. If you’ve been considering connecting with an organization outside of the Gadsden program, reach out to us – we likely have a contact we can connect you with.

• I’m really interested in a specific cause area. Do you think there are other members who might share my interest and want to dig deeper?

  We are happy to introduce you to other members who share the same interests as you. Gadsden is a great opportunity to share your passion and knowledge. One of our core activities brings members together into small working groups to discuss and brainstorm on specific cause areas.