Supporting Foundations

When you establish a Supporting Foundation, you shape its leadership and legacy. You may appoint as many directors to the Foundation’s Board as you wish—drawing from family members, trusted advisors, or close friends. In accordance with federal regulations, the Jewish Federation appoints a simple majority of the board, ensuring compliance and long‑term stability.

The Board oversees all aspects of the Foundation’s activity, including:

• Investment strategy and oversight
• Grantmaking and charitable distributions
• Mission and policy development
• Long‑term philanthropic planning

This structure allows you to maintain meaningful influence while benefiting from the Federation’s expertise, governance, and community insight.

A Supporting Foundation offers a powerful, enduring platform for strategic philanthropy:

• A legacy that lasts — Supporting Foundations continue in perpetuity, enabling multiple generations to collaborate on shared values, charitable goals, and long‑term impact.
• Exceptional tax advantages — As a public charity, a Supporting Foundation provides more favorable tax treatment than a private foundation.
• No excise taxes — Unlike private foundations, Supporting Foundations are not subject to excise taxes on investment income.
• Your voice in governance — You appoint directors to the board, ensuring your vision and priorities guide the Foundation’s work.
• No mandatory annual distributions — You have flexibility in the timing your charitable giving without the minimum payout requirements imposed on private foundations.
• Professional support at every step — Jewish Federation staff provide guidance with mission development, charitable research, proposal evaluation, and administrative, legal, and financial responsibilities—allowing you to focus on the impact you want to create.