Communtiy Foundation of St. Joseph County
Mr. and Mrs. Chuck RoemerKaren and Derrick White

A personal approach to giving.

One way to stay closely involved with the process of philanthropy is through a donor advised fund with the Community Foundation. These funds reflect the interests of those who established them because the donors advise the Foundation annually on how to distribute the year’s earnings.

One example of this type of fund is the Dean and Janet Strycker Family Fund. Dean Strycker, a retired anesthesiologist, is the chair of the Foundation’s ArtsEverywhere committee. He and his wife Janet work with Foundation staff to distribute the earnings from their fund each year, actively participating in supporting their wide range of philanthropic interests.

One of the many benefits of a donor advised fund is that it can be built over time. The Karen and Derrick White Fund was established by Karen White to share her charitable values with her son Derrick. While Karen believes it’s important to give back to the community, she needs to stay within a budget. Since 2000, she has made regular monthly contributions to the fund, ensuring a permanent, significant legacy.

With a donor advised fund, donors practice active philanthropy, led by their own interests and the Foundation’s expert guidance.