Experiencing the joy of giving as a family, and in partnership with the Community Foundation, is nothing new to the Gunkels. Lance’s brother, Jason, has a donor advised fund (DAF) and involves his family in making decisions of how to utilize it best. Their father recently opened a Legacy Fund to forever provide support to the causes he cares about, and enjoys involving the family in his giving decisions as well.
“Our dad loves to come up with unique ways for every member of the family to engage with charities we can support,” shared Lance. “The family giving tools provided by the Community Foundation make it simple for our family to come together for these conversations and collectively consider how our values can translate into our charitable impact.”
Lance and Jason work at Syverson Strege, a Charitable Investment Partner of the Community Foundation, where they support the giving goals of their clients. Through the Charitable Investment Partners program, advisors like Lance and Jason have the ability to simplify their clients’ giving by working with them to establish a charitable giving fund at the Community Foundation, while continuing to manage the investment of their assets.
A common misconception Lance sees in his work is the belief that charitable giving is something that can only be done after death. The team at Syverson Strege explains to clients how working with the Community Foundation allows them to meet their unique giving goals now and for generations to come.
“It’s amazing how some may not think of themselves as able to give significantly during or after their lifetimes,” shared Lance. “But once you have the conversation and they learn about the resources available through the Community Foundation, they understand that giving can be a simple and joyful experience, whether done alone or alongside loved ones.”