The Nonprofit Podcast

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


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DAFs 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 donors
  • Why DAF giving doesn’t slow generosity - friction does
  • Simple ways to be clearer, more visible, and more DAF-ready

If 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 Page
  • Vanguard Charitable – Donor-Advised Funds
  • Daffy – 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:
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Chapters:
00:00 - Intro: Donor-Advised Funds Are Everywhere

01:20 - What Are Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs)?

02:15 - Real Example: Fund Holder Reaches Out

03:50 - DAF Growth: A Million in 2 Years

04:39 - How DAFs Impact Nonprofits

06:27 - 3 Common Myths About DAFs

08:42 - Why Visibility + Clarity Matter for DAF Giving

11:09 - 3 Things to Do This Week (Practical Tips)

13:09 - Bonus Tip: Open Your Own DAF

15:28 - Final Thoughts: Removing Friction for Donors


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The Nonprofit PodcastBy Jena Lynch, Brittan Stockert & Cara Augspurger

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