What If Your Giving Could Go Further? Celebrating DAF Day 2026
At FIUTS, our work depends on people who believe in the power of connection. Whether welcoming international students to Seattle, connecting them with local families, or creating opportunities for youth leadership and cross-cultural learning, our programs are made possible by a community that chooses to invest in people.
Today is DAF Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about donor-advised funds (DAFs) and Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), two of the many ways people can support organizations like FIUTS.
If you have never heard of a DAF or an RMD before, you are not alone. But they have become an increasingly important part of charitable giving and are worth understanding.
So, What Is a Donor-Advised Fund? What’s an RMD?
A donor-advised fund (DAF) is essentially an investment account set aside specifically for charitable giving, opened at a financial institution or community foundation. DAF contributions usually qualify for an immediate charitable tax deduction, and once assets are contributed, they are permanently committed to charitable purposes. The donor can then recommend grants to eligible nonprofits, including organizations like FIUTS.
The Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) is an IRS rule that mandates that you must withdraw a minimum amount from tax-deferred retirement accounts each year once you reach a certain age. If you are over 70 ½, you can transfer funds from your IRA to an eligible charitable organization tax free.
Both of these options give donors flexibility to contribute when it makes sense for them and support different organizations over time.
Why Do DAFs Matter?
If you are new to DAFs, DAF Day is a great opportunity to learn more. Visit DAFDay.com or speak with a financial advisor, community foundation, or DAF provider. DAFs are not right for everyone, and providers differ in their fees, minimums, and investment options. Direct giving to nonprofits remains one of the simplest ways to make an impact.
However, if you already have a donor-advised fund or a qualified IRA, recommending a grant to FIUTS is generally straightforward:
Log in to your DAF or IRA account
Search for FIUTS (Foundation for International Understanding Through Students) EIN# 91-0646781
Select your grant amount and submit your recommendation.
If you make a DAF or RMD grant, we would also love to hear from you. Some grants arrive without identifying information, and letting us know gives us the opportunity to thank you.
And, of course, you do not need a DAF to support FIUTS. Whether you give, volunteer, welcome a student, attend an event, or introduce someone to our community, you are helping create opportunities for so many students here in the Puget Sound Area already, and for all of those who come next.
Learn more about supporting FIUTS at fiuts.org/donate, or contact us at info@fiuts.org.
This article is for general educational purposes and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice.