Thoughtful Giving, Grounded in Community
Learn why partnering with the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation can improve your philanthropic giving.
By Aurea Gerard, Director of Philanthropic Advising
Many people want to be thoughtful about their giving, but that doesn’t always make the process easy.
In Minnesota, generosity runs deep — and so do the needs and opportunities to make a difference. With so many worthy organizations, urgent challenges and promising solutions, it can be hard to know where to begin or how to ensure your giving has the greatest possible impact.
If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re supporting the “right” organizations, you’re not alone. This is where the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation can help.
A Trusted Partner with Deep Local Insight
One of the most valuable roles the Foundation plays is serving as a trusted, knowledgeable partner in your philanthropy. Our team works closely with nonprofit organizations across the state. That proximity means we’re not just aware of issues like housing stability, education or health — we understand how those issues are currently showing up.
This allows us not only to offer a list of options but also to provide context. If you’re drawn to a specific cause or issue, we can help you identify organizations that are actively responding and where your support can make a meaningful difference.
Aligning Your Giving with Your Values
Thoughtful giving often comes with thoughtful questions.
If you need help shaping your giving plan, we will work with you to ensure your giving aligns with your values.
Our team regularly draws on longstanding relationships and on‑the‑ground experience. This due diligence can be especially helpful when you’re considering a new organization or responding to a timely or urgent need. It’s one more way we can help ensure your generosity is put to work with care and integrity.
From Individual Gifts to Planned Giving
For many donors, combining local insight with due diligence leads to something even more powerful: clarity. Rather than approaching each gift as a one‑time decision, working with the Foundation can help you step back and think more strategically about your giving over time.
You might explore questions like:
- Which causes feel most connected to your values and experiences?
- How can you balance immediate needs with long‑term, community‑driven change?
- Are there ways to involve your family across generations in giving?
These are the kinds of conversations the Foundation is here to support — at your pace and in a way that reflects your goals.
Why Partner with the Foundation
Philanthropy is personal.
There’s no single “right” way to give but having a trusted partner who knows Minnesota — and who listens closely to what matters to you — can make the process feel more manageable and more meaningful. The Foundation is honored to work alongside you, helping ensure your generosity supports the people and places you care about most.
To learn more about the benefits of partnering with the Foundation, contact one of our gift planners at 651.224.5463 or philanthropy@spmcf.org.
About the Author
As Director of Philanthropic Advising, Aurea Gerard is responsible for leading the Foundation's dynamic team of philanthropic advisors. In her role, Aurea partners with donors to help them reach their philanthropic goals and deepen their engagement with the Foundation.
Aurea joined the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation in 2012 and brought with her a wealth of experience in the nonprofit sector. Aurea studied at the University of Saint Thomas and holds an associate's degree and a bachelor's degree in business administration and metaphysical science. She also holds a master’s degree in metaphysical science.
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