Surprised by Demands

In fact, after the first year or two of operations, some private foundation founders express mild regret, saying they didn't anticipate the magnitude of demands on their time, energy, and resources. They wish that someone had helped them consider the costs, the benefits, and the options... before they signed up for the responsibilities of a private foundation.

For philanthropists considering options, as well as private foundation trustees interested in simpler solutions, practical alternatives are available through The Community Foundation of Mendocino County.

Assets of a private foundation may be used to establish a donor advised fund, unrestricted fund, field of interest fund, scholarship fund or designated fund. Depending on the type of fund that is established, the private foundation's board of directors often stays involved in setting grantmaking priorities, advising on grant awards and assessing grant success.

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