Ep 192| Donor-Advised Funds: What Fundraisers Need to Know Now

Send us Fan MailDAFs don’t delay generosity - they reveal giving friction.Donor-advised funds are shaping how people give, but many nonprofits aren’t quite ready for it.In this episode, Cara Augspurger shares what she’s seeing firsthand as a frontline fundraiser, including why DAF donors are often some of the most prepared, responsive, and relationship-driven supporters - when nonprofits make it easy to say yes.You’ll hear:What fundraisers often misunderstand about DAF donorsWhy DAF giving doesn’t slow generosity - friction doesSimple ways to be clearer, more visible, and more DAF-readyIf donor-advised funds feel confusing or intimidating, this episode brings clarity without the noise.Listen now and share with someone navigating donor shifts or planning for more sustainable fundraising.Helpful DAF Resources:We have an in-depth blog to bring you up to speed: Donor-Advised Funds: What Do They Mean for Nonprofits and Donors?And, quick links to providers mentioned in the episode:Fidelity Charitable – Official Site (DAF info)Schwab Charitable / DAFgiving360 Donor-Advised Fund PageVanguard Charitable – Donor-Advised FundsDaffy – The Donor‑Advised Fund for You™ (Official)What makes Donorbox the Best Nonprofit Fundraising Platform to Achieve Your Strategic Goals?Easy to customize, available in multiple languages and currencies, and supported by leading payment processors (Stripe and PayPal), Donorbox’s nonprofit fundraising solution is used by 80,000+ global organizations and individuals. From animal rescue to schools, places of worship, and research groups, nonprofits use Donorbox to raise more funds, manage donors efficiently, and make a bigger impact.Discover how Donorbox can help you help others!The Nonprofit Podcast, along with a wealth of nonprofit leadership tutorials, expert advice, tips, and tactics, is available on the Donorbox YouTube channel. Subscribe today and never miss an episode:The Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all popular podcast platforms.🎙️ Apple Podcasts: The Nonprofit Podcast🎙️ Spotify: The Nonprofit Podcast 🖥️The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTubeChapters:00:00 - Intro: Donor-Advised Funds Are Everywhere01:20 - What Are Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs)?02:15 - Real Example: Fund Holder Reaches Out03:50 - DAF Growth: A Million in 2 Years04:39 - How DAFs Impact Nonprofits06:27 - 3 Common Myths About DAFs08:42 - Why Visibility + Clarity Matter for DAF Giving11:09 - 3 Things to Do This Week (Practical Tips)13:09 - Bonus Tip: Open Your Own DAF15:28 - Final Thoughts: Removing Friction for DonorsSupport the show