Unlocking the Power of DAFs

How Funders Can Overcome Psychological and Operational Barriers and Use Donor-Advised Funds More Effectively

Without the outside pressure of a deadline to spur giving, DAF balances too often continue to grow without funders following through on their charitable intentions. Many funders are passionate about doing good with their DAFs but currently aren’t fulfilling their charitable ambitions. This paper explores tactics DAF-holders can use to combat stagnation and overcome the barriers—both psychological and structural—that are holding them back, enabling them to put their charitable dollars to work and fulfill the expectations of their roles as funders.