A PERSONAL SERVICE

We work closely with individuals and families to gain a good understanding of their philanthropic interests. The length of time this takes varies depending on the donor. To help you decide which charities and voluntary groups you would like to support, we will assign a member of staff to explore projects suited to you and your family. For example, after meeting a member of staff you might want to commission a study of the social needs of a particular community, or, you might decide to let us find the most deserving charities or community groups in your area. Most importantly, you keep control of the direction of your funds.

ORGANISED VISITS

The Foundation regularly organises visits to help donors find out more about a particular charity or community group, the challenges they face and what they would do with your funding. We can also arrange return visits to see how your donation has helped. Personal visits are often an opportunity to meet other individuals and families who have given their support, allowing you to discuss your shared experience.

NAMED FUNDS AND BESPOKE GRANT PROGRAMMES

Once you have decided the areas you would like to support, you can establish a named fund with the Foundation. This is similar to a personal charitable trust where you establish a grant programme and set the criteria for distribution. After establishing your grant programme, we publicise the availability of your fund to eligible groups and solicit applications from key organisations. We then short-list applications, give
you the option of deciding which organisations to support, and arrange payment.
When naming your fund you have the option to remain anonymous or decide how much information you would like to disclose about yourself.

REPORTING & EVALUATION

We have a thorough process for assessing charities and community groups before grants are made and we monitor them to ensure funds are properly used. In addition, we report back to you on the impact your funding has made. These reports will normally be sent to you twice a year. You can also request a more detailed evaluation of the projects you have supported to help you fully understand the difference your funding has made. This process is normally discussed at the outset with your assigned member of staff. They will help you devise a clear set of goals with measurable indicators and targets for your programme of giving. This can often provide valuable information which, with your permission, will be published and shared with other charities and voluntary sector and statutory agencies.

GIVING TO YOUR NAMED FUND

Unlike a private charitable trust you don’t need a large capital sum to give through the Scottish Community Foundation. You can finance your named fund in two ways by:

• making annual deposits of £1,000 or more for distribution to charities and voluntary groups within a twelve-month period
• creating a permanent endowment through making a gift of capital of at least £25,000 – a gift of this size would provide an income of approximately £1,000 a year for distribution.

As the Scottish Community Foundation is a registered charity you can take full advantage of Gift Aid and capital gains tax relief.

LOW MANAGEMENT FEES

We charge for the time it takes to manage and distribute your fund.This largely depends on the conditions of your fund, the size and number of awards you make and whether you wish to distribute funds annually or by creating an endowment. Once we understand your interests, we will provide you with an accurate quote.

NEXT STEPS

To find out more about how the Scottish Community Foundation can help you plan your charitable giving, please contact the Development Office on 0131 524 0300.