Blog

January 10, 2025

The Southern California wildfires have been a devastating start to the new year – as of Thursday morning, the fires have burned about 45 square miles, destroying communities and forcing over 100,000 people to evacuate. We are sending love and support to the individuals, families, and communities impacted by the wildfires. During these difficult times […]

January 6, 2025

by Jody Dilday, Philanthropic Advisor The end of 2024 may have been hectic for you and your clients, but now is the perfect time to help families start planning their charitable giving strategies for 2025. While year-end giving often feels urgent, planning early in the year offers even greater advantages. Here are the benefits of […]

January 6, 2025

by Lesley Roberts, Philanthropic Advisor Advisors often share that their happiest clients are those who include charitable giving in their estate and financial plans. Whether philanthropy inspires happiness or happy people are drawn to giving, one thing is clear: incorporating charitable giving into financial planning delivers emotional and practical benefits. Advisors who embrace this conversation […]

January 6, 2025

by Ashley Coldiron, Chief Development Officer A new year and a new administration often bring the potential for significant changes. So, what’s on the legislative horizon that might affect your charitable clients? The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017: A Key Focus One major issue we’re watching is the possible extension or expiration […]

December 17, 2024

Dolly Parton was inspired to start the Imagination Library after learning her father couldn’t read or write. It started in 1995 as a local effort in Parton’s home state of Tennessee and has grown to every state and five countries. She wanted to ensure that all children had access to books, regardless of their family’s […]

December 16, 2024

Investing in early literacy is a passion for Cathy Seilhan. Arkansas Community Foundation makes it possible for her to invest in children’s future. “When I was little, my parents and grandparents would read to me, tell me stories and nursery rhymes. We went to the library and our birthday and Christmases always included books,” said […]

December 9, 2024

OP-ED by Cindy Whitaker, Second Grade Teacher Sheridan Elementary School In the 1980s and 90s, most Arkansas teachers used something called the whole language curriculum. It focused on helping children develop reading and language skills by making connections between reading and real life. But whole language teaching methods did not include much phonics instruction. I […]

December 3, 2024

Here are some reminders for making sure that your gifts are recognized for the 2024 tax year: ADD TO AN EXISTING FUND To learn more about the various assets you can give, review our guide to Contributing to a fund. In order for charitable gifts into a fund to qualify for a charitable income tax deduction […]

December 3, 2024

As you approach or settle into retirement, you may find yourself reflecting on how charitable giving can play a more prominent role in this next chapter of your life. With more time, resources, or both now available, it’s a great opportunity to explore the charitable giving strategies that resonate most with retirees. The Community Foundation […]

December 3, 2024

As the year unfolds, consider whether updates to your estate and tax plans make sense. Now is an excellent time to lean on the team at the Community Foundation. Together with your attorney, CPA, and financial advisor, we can help you explore strategies that fit your unique circumstance. Here are three charitable planning strategies we’d […]