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Ops Insights #091 - How to Enter DAF Gifts
Donor Advised Fund (DAF) gifts are quickly gaining in popularity. According to a Chronicle of Philanthropy, as of December 2025, there was $326 billion currently tied up in donor-advised funds (DAFs) across the United States. So much so that fundraising leaders are developing targeted strategies and hiring consulting advisors to help guide their teams. It makes sense, as we want donors to recommend that the money be directed to charities rather than have it sit in their DAFs.
Then, as we secure more DAF gifts, the question of how to enter them into our fundraising database has become increasingly important. From all the nonprofits I’ve advised and observed over the years, the following is how I guide leaders and teams.