Uncertain Times Call for Thoughtful Giving
Here are a few ways you can stay grounded and generous when the world feels unpredictable.
By Aurea Gerard, Director of Philanthropic Advising
Uncertain times often cause people to pause and reassess.
Whether uncertainty comes from markets, employment changes, health concerns, or Immigration and Customs Enforcement occupying the state, the world is unpredictable. It is natural to wonder what this means for your financial plan. For many donors, uncertainty also raises a question about charitable giving: should I slow down, stop, continue or increase my giving?
There is no single right answer.
That’s why the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation will never suggest that you give beyond what feels sustainable. Often, the best approach is to identify the urgent need and adjust your plan in a way that preserves your generosity while matching your current reality.
Here are four ways you can adjust your giving plan to respond to current needs of the community:
1. Pace Your Giving
For many people, pacing is a practical strategy. In other words, instead of making one large gift, you might spread gifts across the year or across multiple years.
2. Change Your Giving Routine
Adjusting how much you give is always an option. Some donors shift from larger one-time gifts to steady recurring gifts because it feels easier to manage. Other donors do the opposite: they make an early-year gift when they feel confident and then reassess later.
3. Increase the Number of Gifts You Make
Some donors choose to continue supporting a core group of organizations while also increasing the number of additional gifts they make.
4. Support Urgent Needs
Other donors focus on supporting immediate and urgent needs identified by the Foundation and then returning to broader giving later.
For people who have established a fund at the Foundation, flexibility is often one of the biggest benefits. If you use a donor advised fund, you can contribute when it makes sense for your situation, then recommend grants over time. If you prefer a more defined approach, other types of funds may provide the structure you want while still allowing you to respond to changing community needs.
Uncertainty can also be a moment to revisit why you give.
Many donors find that giving is one of the most grounding parts of their lives when times are unsettling. Giving can be a way to stay connected to the community, reinforce values and help stabilize organizations that serve people who are struggling. For that reason, some donors choose to continue giving even if they adjust the pace or focus.
The Foundation is here to help you think through these choices without pressure. We can help you evaluate options that fit your goals, connect you with information about community needs and support you in building a plan that feels both meaningful and sustainable. If you are feeling uncertain, contact me, Aurea Gerard, or your philanthropic advisor, for a brief conversation to clarify what generosity can look like in this season.
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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