Partners

The GMCF Partner program evolved in response to the growing interest of communities and foundations wanting to collaborate with the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation (GMCF). GMCF Partners maintain their own board and decision-making authority for funds, while GMCF handles financial responsibilities. This enables partners to focus on supporting charitable needs in their communities. During the affiliation process, GMCF assists communities with assessment, feasibility, and formation discussions, as well as, provides ongoing technical assistance services. To become a partner, existing community foundations must adhere to GMCF policies. All Affiliate Partners share the GMCF 501(c)(3) status, while Associate Partner foundations may retain their separate 501(c)(3) status. Schools, termed Associate and Educational Associate foundations, follow the same procedures as all Partners. Becoming a GMCF Partner allows communities to pool resources, benefit from experienced services, and raise better awareness of community needs and philanthropy.

The partner program at GMCF offers three options for affiliation:

• An affiliate foundation is one that utilizes the 501(c)(3) status offered through the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation.
• An associate foundation is one that has its own 501(c)(3) status but still utilizes the partner program benefits through the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation.
• An educational associate foundation primarily operates scholarship programs through the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. The GMCF provides scholarship assistance through administrative staff support. 

Benefits of Affiliation with Greater Manhattan Community Foundation

Nonprofit Status

GMCF is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, which enables its Partners and their funds to receive tax-deductible contributions. GMCF issues charitable receipts conforming to IRS standards.

Local Control

Locally selected Fund Advisory Committee members make decisions about how charitable dollars are spent. GMCF has a legal responsibility for all funds entrusted to it to ensure that funds are used consistently with provisions of IRC Sec. 501(c)(3) and in compliance with donor intent. A local foundation would have the same legal responsibilities.

Peer Learning Network

GMCF uses peer learning to help build community capacity and leadership. GMCF facilitates peer-learning opportunities on many relevant topics to help Partner fund leaders become more skillful and confident.

Financial and Administrative Services

Through GMCF’s Donor Portal, fund holders have 24/7 access to fund data. GMCF has the sole responsibility for day-to-day financial activities, including recording contributions, making disbursements, cash management, preparing and filing IRS Form 990, obtaining an audit of its financial statements by an independent CPA firm, and issuing the fund’s financial reports. 

Contributions to Multiple Funds

GMCF is helping to evolve giving habits to support causes and programs that will have a greater impact on the long-term sustainability of communities. GMCF’s educational efforts are helping many donors to consider the multiple causes they can choose to support with their current and planned gifts.

Marketing, Communications, and Website

GMCF marketing materials are available to Partners at minimal or no charge. Sample or customized media relations materials, donor letters, and financial planner communications can be provided. GMCF maintains an extensive website, providing information to fundholders, potential donors, and financial planners.

Training and Technical Assistance

GMCF staff has expertise in community development, strategic planning, planned giving, and the development of public-private partnerships. GMCF staff and Board Members are available to help funds get organized, provide guidance for strategic planning, and advise on effective fundraising techniques.

Gift Planning Assistance

GMCF assists attorneys, CPAs, insurance agents, financial planners, bankers and brokers, and their clients/donors with charitable gift planning ideas. Brochures and materials on the benefits of charitable giving are available.