Advisors Archives - Omaha Community Foundation

Guiding Clients Through Philanthropy with Clarity and Confidence: Q&A with Brian Gough, Partner at Hancock Dana

Molly Mullen — Wed, 27 May 2026 19:15:56 +0000

Your clients rely on your guidance to make important financial decisions. When it comes to charitable giving, we can partner with you to simplify their giving and amplify their impact.

But don’t just take our word for it. Hear from professionals in the field like Brian Gough, shareholder at Hancock Dana. Brian specializes in private wealth and trust taxation, serving high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and executive teams. His experience as a Tax Partner at Hancock Dana and certification as a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® equip him to guide clients through tax, estate, and gift planning with clarity and confidence. Brian is passionate about helping clients achieve their goals by designing financial strategies that align with their vision for success and legacy, while making it a priority to explain the process every step of the way.

Are there any common misconceptions clients have about charitable giving or entering into the world of philanthropy?

Many clients believe that making cash contributions or volunteering their time are the only assets that one can give to an organization to help further their cause. However, often, more unique assets can be contributed with the help of your CPA, financial advisor, estate planning attorney, and advisors from OCF. These include items such as naming OCF as a beneficiary of an IRA or retirement account, establishing a Charitable Remainder Trust or Charitable Lead Trust, contributing highly appreciated publicly traded securities, or contributing stock or an interest in a closely held family business through thoughtful planning. All of these can be ways clients can make meaningful philanthropic contributions to the organizations they care about without relying solely on cash or time.

What are the questions you are most commonly asked as it relates to philanthropy?

As a tax accountant, the most frequently asked question is, “Will I get a tax deduction for this?” When I can confirm that they will, they smile and seem more willing to give the asset away. When they are not able to itemize their deductions, they initially feel disappointed.

However, I remind them that their motivation for giving stems from a desire to make a difference and leave a legacy, not just tax savings. The heart of philanthropy lies in the impact being made, not tax incentives, although that does help.

How can advisors prompt clients to think about legacy planning or including their children or next generations in their charitable giving?

As I bring on new clients or have annual check-ins with existing clients, I constantly ask if they have completed their will and estate planning documents. If they say yes, I follow up with: “When was the last time you reviewed or updated them?” Estate plans should be revisited every 3–5 years, after major life events, or in response to significant tax law changes, like the passage of the OBBBA.

If clients haven’t started planning, we discuss the legacy they wish to leave for their family and community. This naturally leads to conversations about involving children or future generations in charitable giving. It’s an opportunity to align family values with philanthropic goals and encourage a culture of giving with the next generation.

How does opening an account with OCF make giving simplified for you and your clients?

Utilizing an OCF account can help streamline the giving process. A single check to OCF can be written at the time the gift is to be made, and the client will receive a single acknowledgment letter in return to provide to their tax accountant as the support needed for their tax return. There is then no need to track the tens or hundreds of acknowledgment letters as the funds are dispersed from the OCF account, a welcome relief to the client.

Ready to Connect?

Download our advisor toolkit and access ready-to-share philanthropic resources.
Schedule a personal session with our Donor Services Team. Ask for Joey Felici, Donor Services Senior Advisor 402-614-8530 or joey@omahafoundation.org
Explore CAP® training to elevate your philanthropic advising through our Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® program

We look forward to partnering with you to serve your clients more effectively, and together, to grow a culture of meaningful giving in our community.

The post Guiding Clients Through Philanthropy with Clarity and Confidence: Q&A with Brian Gough, Partner at Hancock Dana appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

Welcome to the 2026 CAP® class

Molly Mullen — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 21:12:44 +0000

Each year, a select group of professional advisors in Omaha commits to a rigorous, graduate-level learning experience designed to deepen their understanding of charitable planning and philanthropic impact. The Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® (CAP®) program brings together professionals from law, accounting, financial services, and the nonprofit sector who want to better serve their clients while strengthening the community we call home.

Facilitated locally by the Omaha Community Foundation, the CAP® program is a year-long curriculum that prepares advisors to navigate the complexities of giving, legacy planning, and values-based decision-making. Through coursework, in‑person discussions, and exposure to real-world philanthropic challenges, participants gain the tools and perspective needed to guide thoughtful, effective generosity.

We are proud to introduce the newest CAP® class and to celebrate their commitment to helping Omaha remain one of the most philanthropic communities in the country.

Adam Austin is a Tax Shareholder at Lutz who works with privately held businesses to help them navigate tax compliance, planning, and more complex advisory needs. He serves clients across the healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, and real estate industries and takes a practical, thoughtful approach to tax matters. Adam is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Finance and Accounting from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Known for his ability to make the complex simple, he focuses on helping clients understand the why behind tax decisions so they can move forward and make the best decisions for themselves and their business.

Amy Bernstein Shivvers has served as Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation since July 2022, bringing more than 30 years of experience in management, marketing, strategic partnerships, and content development. Amy has led several key initiatives, including the Foundation’s 40th anniversary initiative, its first strategic planning process, successful endowment campaigns, and overseeing an office remodel and strengthening community engagement. Previously, she held leadership roles at Western Governors University, where she expanded partnerships and student enrollment across nine Midwestern states, and at Crain’s Chicago Business, where she built a seven-figure conference portfolio and launched Crain’s Academy.

Scott Berryman has been an attorney for more than 25 years. He has experience in all phases of trusts: planning and drafting, postdeath administration, and multi-generational trust administration as a trust officer. Scott is a Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor from the American Bankers Association, served two terms on Schwab’s DAFgivng360 council of professional advisors, and is an active member of the Omaha Estate Planning Council.

Rebecca Bode joined the Peter Kiewit Foundation in June 2015 and currently serves as Chief Financial Officer, where she oversees accounting, financial reporting, and resource management. She guides the financial steps of the grantmaking process from start to finish and collaborates with the Foundation’s team to support grantee partners as they pursue financial health and long-term sustainability. Additionally, Rebecca is actively involved in strategically planning the Foundation’s sunset, anticipated around 2030. Rebecca began her career in public accounting. She specialized in providing accounting, auditing, and consulting services to nonprofit organizations and privately held companies.

Ryan Decker, CFP, serves as a Vice President and Relationship Manager at Bridges Trust. In this role, he is responsible for managing client relationships, coordinating the delivery of investment and advisory services, and helping ensure clear communication across client and internal teams. He brings extensive experience in wealth management, client service, and organizational leadership, with a background that includes relationship development, investment strategy implementation, and long-term planning support. Ryan earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance from Creighton University and holds the Certified Financial Planner designation.

Tony DeLuca is a co-founder and partner at Smith Pauley LLP and chair of the Firm’s trusts and estates practice group. Over the course of his nearly 15-year legal career, Anthony has been fortunate to work with some of the region’s most successful entrepreneurs, founders, executives, and families. He counsels clients on traditional estate planning, post-death estate and trust administration, and business succession planning matters, while devoting a meaningful portion of his practice to complex wealth transfer planning and federal transfer tax minimization for high-net-worth families. He is a graduate of Loyola University Chicago and Creighton University School of Law. Tony and his wife Jacqueline have two children.

Molly Hoge, CFP®, is a financial advisor at Edward Jones, where she works with individuals, families, and business owners to develop personalized financial strategies that align with their goals and priorities. She began her career as a retirement plan consulting actuary, spending a decade in Chicago and Omaha before transitioning to financial advising in 2020 to pursue more direct, community-centered impact. Molly earned degrees in actuarial science and finance from Drake University. Her expertise includes retirement planning, tax-sensitive investment strategies, insurance and education planning, and estate considerations. She is active in her church, volunteers with Math Motivators, and serves on the board of the Bennington Chamber of Commerce. Molly lives in Bennington with her husband and their three children.

Justin Hope is an audit and attest partner at Eide Bailly, LLP, specializing in nonprofit organizations. With over 20 years of experience, he has worked with nonprofits from small startup organizations to those with assets exceeding $1B, helping his clients to succeed in their missions. Professionally, he serves as the current Chairman Elect of the Nebraska Society of CPAs and is a member of the Nebraska Society of CPAs Not-For-Profit committee, as well as the Certifications chair of the Nebraska Healthcare Financial Management Association. Outside of his professional commitments, Justin has served on numerous boards of directors, including currently serving as the treasurer of Omaha Rodeo.

Emily Jung serves as Chief Trusts & Estates Officer for Harrison Financial Services and Harrison Family Office Services, where she brings more than 21 years of legal and wealth management experience to support strategic planning for families and business owners. A licensed attorney in Nebraska, Emily spent many years in private practice specializing in advanced wealth transfer planning, estate administration, and governance of not-for-profit entities before transitioning to financial services in 2021. In her current role, she partners with advisory teams to guide customized succession and tax-efficient transfer strategies while collaborating with external counsel to ensure a seamless client experience. She earned her BA from Southern Methodist University and her JD from Saint Louis University School of Law.

Sarah Ann Kotchian serves as CEO of the Nebraska Early Childhood Collaborative, leading the organization’s strategy, growth, and operations. She brings experience in nonprofit strategy, corporate development, and early childhood care and education. As a former lobbyist, she has experience with campaigns and various legal entity structures and investments to drive program, practice, and policy improvements for women, children, and families. She has served on local and state commissions, task forces, and boards of directors, and has been recognized as a State Children’s Champion by the Nebraska Head Start Association and a Public Citizen of the Year by the Nebraska Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers. She is a graduate of Creighton University and the University of Nebraska College of Law.

Steve Lindsay is Senior Vice President of Business Development for Bankers Trust in Omaha, joining the team in 2023. He brings more than 30 years of experience in corporate banking, private banking, and wealth management, including leadership roles such as president of a South Dakota trust company. Steve holds an MBA from Creighton University and a bachelor’s degree from Marquette University. An Omaha native, Steve is a cofounder and advisory board member of Kicks for a Cure, a graduate of Leadership Omaha, and serves on the Greater Omaha Chamber Board of Directors and Economic Development Council. He is also involved with Avenue Scholars, Partnership 4 Kids, and NorthStar. Steve and his wife, Amy, have three children.

Rochelle Mullen focuses her practice on mergers and acquisitions, securities transactions, real estate transactions, carbon capture, utilization and storage, and general corporate matters. She manages mergers and acquisitions for local, regional and national clients and advises clients on both regulatory and transactional securities law matters, including both exempt and non-exempt federal and state securities offerings. Rochelle works closely with real estate developers to efficiently and strategically implement a practical approach to a deal. Over the past three years Rochelle has worked extensively with developers and ethanol plant owners addressing business issues relating to carbon capture and sequestration.

Mike O’Malley is the Senior Director of Development for the Heider College of Business at Creighton University, where he leads the school and college development team and has served for 17 years with a strong focus on major and leadership gifts. Before joining Creighton, Mike spent 12 years as a District Sales Manager with Sysco Foodservice, guiding a team of 12 marketing associates and driving regional sales growth. Mike is married and has three college age boys. Outside of work, he is an active volunteer at Creighton Prep, enjoys building LEGO sets, and serves on the security team at Steelhouse Omaha.

Kathy (Schuele) Schubauer is a proud graduate of Marian High School, Texas Christian University, and the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She currently serves as Director of Donor Services at the Omaha Community Foundation, where she focuses on donor engagement, stewardship, and philanthropic impact. Prior to joining OCF, Kathy spent nearly a decade as a fundraiser for the College of Engineering at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. She has volunteered with organizations including Heart Heroes, Teammates, Chi Omega, and the Children’s Nebraska Friends Board. Kathy lives in Omaha with her husband, Tyler, and their three sons.

Dan Walker is the General Manager of Epigram Capital, a private investment partnership. He was formerly Director of Research at Bridges Trust, a $12 billion AUM advisor, where he served as portfolio lead on three strategies with more than $2 billion in assets. Previously, he served as an Equity Analyst for Weitz Investment Management and Heartland Advisors. He is a CFA Charterholder and obtained an MBA in Applied Securities Analysis from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He has held board positions for the Heart Ministry Center and RISE.

The post Welcome to the 2026 CAP® class appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

Supporting Nebraska Communities During the 2026 Wildfire Response

Molly Mullen — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:51:56 +0000

As Nebraska communities continue to face a historic wildfire season, local advisors are hearing from clients who want to help in meaningful, effective ways. Nearly 100 volunteer fire departments across the state have been involved in wildfire response efforts so far, and many are navigating significant costs that are not fully reimbursed through state or federal programs.

The Omaha Community Foundation has established the Nebraska Wildfires Response Fund to support volunteer fire departments and first responders who have been central to response efforts. The Foundation is serving as a central hub for collecting donations, coordinating with partners, and directing philanthropic resources where they can make the greatest impact.

A key development in recent weeks is the launch of a department-level Wildfire Relief Grant application through the Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association. This application allows eligible rural and volunteer fire departments to document specific recovery needs and estimated costs related to equipment repair or replacement, personal protective equipment, hoses, fuel, and other response-related expenses that are not reimbursed through public programs.

All proceeds from the Nebraska Spring Game are committed to supporting rural and volunteer fire departments through this coordinated approach.

Now that the application is live, the Foundation and its partners are moving from monitoring and coordination into a needs-validation phase. As applications are reviewed, grants will be issued directly to eligible volunteer fire departments, with award decisions guided by documented needs and alignment with other funding partners. This process helps avoid duplication, fills funding gaps, and allows for clear guidance to donors about how their contributions are being used.

Vetted organizations supporting wildfire response and recovery

The Nebraska Wildfires Response Fund is one option among many for donors who want to support wildfire recovery. Contributions to this fund help address immediate response and recovery needs for first responders, while remaining flexible to support limited hardship cases for volunteer firefighters who may have lost income while responding.

For advisors working with clients, aligning giving with donor intent is key. Some donors may want to support first responders directly, while others may be focused on community recovery, household stability, legal assistance, or agricultural impacts. Omaha Community Foundation fundholders can recommend grants to a range of trusted organizations working across these areas.

Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association: Supports volunteer fire departments across the state by helping address gaps that are not always covered by state or federal reimbursement programs.

American Red Cross Nebraska-Iowa Region: Operating a firefighter respite center in North Platte, operating a shelter in Brady for displaced individuals, coordinating disaster mental health support and referrals to other resources, and preparing to provide direct financial assistance to impacted households once damage assessments can occur.

The Salvation Army Omaha: Providing meal service and on‑the‑ground assistance to firefighters and affected residents, and raising funds to continue response and recovery support.

Legal Aid of Nebraska: Disaster Relief Program provides free civil legal assistance to income-eligible individuals and families affected by disasters, including help with FEMA appeals, insurance disputes, contractor fraud, housing issues, and replacement of vital documents.

America’s Lifeline Emergency Response Team (ALERT): Coordinating hay, livestock supplies, and fencing assistance for impacted ranchers in affected counties.

Nebraska Community Foundation – Nebraska Wildfire Recovery Fund: This fund will support Nebraska communities impacted by the 2026 wildfires through NCF’s network of county and community affiliates, helping ensure resources reach affected local communities.

Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund: Supporting beef cattle producers impacted by the fires, including needs related to hay, fencing, and livestock.

United Way of Western Nebraska – Fire Relief Fund: Supporting emergency needs such as temporary housing, food, clothing, essential supplies, and recovery assistance for needs not covered by FEMA or insurance.

Oregon Trail Community Foundation – Sandhills Fire Relief Fund: Funds will be directed to agencies on the front line providing immediate relief and longer‑term recovery support.
Kearney Area Community Foundation – Nebraska Sandhills Rancher Relief Fund: This fund supports wildfire victims and recovery efforts primarily in Garden, Morrill, Arthur, Keith, and Grant counties.

The Omaha Community Foundation will continue to share updates as needs become clearer and recovery priorities evolve. Advisors and donors with questions are encouraged to contact their OCF Donor Services Advisor or call the Foundation at 402-342-3458.

The post Supporting Nebraska Communities During the 2026 Wildfire Response appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

What the 2025 Annual DAF Report Reveals for Omaha

Kathy Schubauer — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 16:53:02 +0000

At the Omaha Community Foundation, our role goes beyond granting money to nonprofits. We help donors make informed decisions about how and when their generosity can have the greatest impact. Doing that well requires not only deep local knowledge, but also credible national data that adds context and perspective to an evolving philanthropic landscape.

That is why OCF sponsored the 2025 Annual Donor Advised Fund Report, produced independently by the Donor Advised Fund Research Collaborative. The report provides a comprehensive, data driven look at how Donor Advised Funds are used nationwide and what those patterns reveal about charitable giving today.

A Donor Advised Fund functions much like a charitable savings account. Donors contribute assets, receive an immediate tax deduction, and then recommend grants to nonprofits over time. This structure allows donors to plan their giving thoughtfully, respond to changing community needs, and manage their philanthropy from one place without administrative complexity. Throughout the report, Donor Advised Funds, or DAFs, are examined across different sponsors and communities.

Why Independent Research Matters

Beginning with the 2025 edition, responsibility for the Annual DAF Report shifted to the Donor Advised Fund Research Collaborative, an independent group of scholars specializing in economics and philanthropy. The Collaborative includes researchers affiliated with BYU, DePaul University, Grand Valley State University’s Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy, and the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University.

This independence strengthens confidence in the findings because objective research ensures insights are shaped by data rather than marketing priorities or institutional interests. As Dan Heist, co-founder of the Donor Advised Fund Research Collaborative, notes, when donors can trust both the data and the institution helping interpret it, better decisions follow.

“Independent data is most powerful when it’s paired with local context,” Heist said. “Community foundations like the Omaha Community Foundation play a critical connector role by translating national research into insights that help donors act.” 

What the Data Shows Locally

The 2025 report draws on data from nearly 1,500 DAF sponsors nationwide, including community foundations, national providers, and single-issue charities. The findings show that when DAFs are held at community foundations, they often reflect long-term donor relationships, larger average account sizes, and consistent grantmaking. Even during periods of market volatility, grantmaking activity remains steady.

This context is especially meaningful for Omaha. In 2025, OCF distributed $315.8 million through approximately 19,000 grants to 3,670 organizations across 2,143 funds, with DAFs serving as a key giving tool for many fundholders.

“What’s interesting about philanthropy in Omaha specifically is that it blends long-term commitment with immediate responsiveness,” Heist said, “Data shows donors here are thinking beyond single transactions and using tools like DAFs to stay adaptable to changing needs in their community.”

The data also helps address common assumptions about DAFs. Public discussions sometimes suggest that charitable dollars are delayed or withheld. National data does not support that view. In 2024, DAF payout rates exceeded 25%, showing that these funds are actively used to support nonprofits and respond to community needs.

Beyond individual giving decisions, the report highlights how charitable giving responds to broader economic conditions. National trends help donors understand how contributions and grantmaking shift over time and how planning can balance immediate needs with longer-term goals.

Omaha’s philanthropic strength is further supported by a strong network of professional advisors, including experts in estate planning, tax law, accounting, investment management, and trust services. Omaha is also home to the nation’s largest Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy study group, reinforcing a culture of informed, collaborative charitable planning.

Key findings from the 2025 report help put this context into perspective. Nationwide, DAFs distributed $65 billion in grants in 2024. Overall payout rates exceeded 25 percent, with community foundation DAFs averaging payout rates above 20 percent. Despite holding fewer assets than private foundations, DAFs distributed more than half as much in total grant dollars. Community foundation DAFs also continued to reflect larger average account sizes, supporting steady, long-term giving.

Taken together, the 2025 Annual DAF Report offers a clearer picture of how DAFs are used and why they matter. The data shows that these funds consistently move charitable dollars into communities, even during uncertain economic times. By replacing assumptions with evidence, the research gives donors practical insight into how their giving fits within broader trends and how thoughtful, informed philanthropy can strengthen nonprofits and communities over time.

The post What the 2025 Annual DAF Report Reveals for Omaha appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

A Conversation with Jerry O’Doherty, CPA Advisor and OCF Fundholder

Molly Mullen — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 14:58:01 +0000

Your clients rely on your guidance to make important financial decisions. When it comes to charitable giving, the Omaha Community Foundation can partner with you to simplify their giving and amplify their impact.

But don’t just take our word for it.

Hear from professionals in the field like Jerry O’Doherty, Partner at CPA firm Eide Bailly. A graduate of the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy program and a fundholder himself, Jerry brings both professional expertise and personal experience to conversations about philanthropy in Omaha.

Tell us about your relationship with the Omaha Community Foundation.

My relationship with OCF is multifaceted. I went through the CAP program, I have an account myself, and I stay connected by attending events and recommending clients to consider using OCF’s services.

I first learned about the Charitable Checkbook from an OCF presentation I attended. For charitably inclined clients who want to minimize income taxes before the end of the year but do not know which charity to give to, it is the easiest solution to present. If they want to build something more robust later, that can come in time. But this is an easy place to start.

How does this relationship benefit your clients?

In the public accounting world, most individuals specialize in audit or tax. I began my career in the audit department. I serve many clients in the not-for-profit industry, so I see the sector from their angle. It is important to me that my clients understand the philanthropic vehicles people are using in Omaha and how those tools can support their goals.

For clients with charitable interests, what makes OCF a strong partner?

It is seamless. OCF is easy to work with, and they are willing to sit down and have real conversations with clients. I recently introduced a client who was exploring what he wanted his giving to look like, and OCF listened carefully and responded thoughtfully.

When I refer someone, I need to trust that the referral source will provide the person with a good experience. I know OCF is responsive and solutions-oriented. There are no hurdles. Recommending OCF reflects well on me as a professional because I know my clients will be well served.

How can clients use OCF within their financial plans?

At year-end, some clients need to give for tax reasons but are not ready to decide exactly where those dollars should go. A fund with OCF allows them to make the gift now, maximize tax benefits, and take time to be thoughtful about the grants they are giving.

And frankly, it makes generosity easy. If you are having a rough day, you can log in and give money away. That is a pretty good reset button for your general outlook!

How can advisors encourage clients to involve their children or the next generation in philanthropy?

I believe it starts with estate planning. A surprising number of people plan to leave charitable gifts within their estate but have not shared that information with their families. Bringing children into those conversations now creates alignment and builds shared values long before a will is read.

How has being a fundholder shaped your perspective?

When you use something yourself, you can explain it mechanically and confidently. I know how simple the process is because I have done it. When you believe in a tool, it is easy to recommend it. Clients know if someone is authentic or not.

What makes Omaha’s philanthropic culture unique?

The generosity here is simply remarkable and it creates an atmosphere that feels like a friendly competition to do the most good. As a born-and-bred Omahan, I have seen people step up time and time again. For those who live here, no explanation is necessary. For those who do not, no explanation will suffice. That spirit of generosity is what defines Omaha and makes it such a wonderful place to live.

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Celebrating the 2025 Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®) Graduates

Molly Mullen — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 13:41:21 +0000

On February 11, the Omaha Community Foundation celebrated the 2025 class of Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® (CAP®) graduates, welcoming a new group of leaders into one of the strongest philanthropic networks in the country.

The CAP® program, offered through The American College of Financial Services, brings together financial advisors, attorneys, nonprofit leaders, accountants and other professionals who share a commitment to thoughtful charitable planning. With this year’s graduates, Omaha’s CAP® alumni network now approaches nearly 200 members, the largest concentration of CAP® graduates anywhere in the United States. Together, they continue to shape a community known for generosity, collaboration and bold ideas.

Vanessa Denney, Vice President of Donor and Philanthropic Services at the Omaha Community Foundation, noted that in 2025, OCF distributed $315 million in grants, often in partnership with advisors and professionals across the region.

“The nearly 200 CAP® graduates you join today shows our collective dedication to building a strong network rooted in philanthropy, partnership and forward momentum,” she shared. “You’ve had a front row seat to the generosity and innovation happening within our region, and now you are equipped to help fuel philanthropy even more.”

Mark Weber, who has led the CAP® program study group locally for 15 years in partnership with the Foundation, reflected on utilizing the program, the people, and the Foundation in their financial work.

“You get a different perspective on the community through CAP,” Weber said. “OCF is highly respected across the country and is an invaluable resource. If you don’t utilize your relationship with the community foundation, you are missing out as a financial professional.”

Throughout the ceremony, graduates reflected on how the program reshaped their work.

Reflecting on the value of cross-sector learning, Michael Rickert of Guinan O’Siochain Law Group said, “Learning about the challenges nonprofit fundraisers face opened the door to understanding how to better partner with charitable organizations.”

For nonprofit leaders in the class, the cross-sector learning was equally powerful. Jeremy Bouman, CEO and founder of the nonprofit RISE, reflected on the depth of expertise in the room. “The expertise in our class is off the charts,” he said. “Hearing how tax and financial planning professionals use their expertise to create transformational giving broadened my understanding of what is possible.”

From conversations over coffee to coursework on tax strategy and charitable vehicles, this year’s graduates leave not only with a designation, but with a deeper understanding of how philanthropy intersects with planning, purpose and partnership.

Congratulations to the 2025 CAP® Graduates:

Craig W. Benson – Lamson Dugan & Murray LLP
Jeremy Bouman – RISE
Jim Clements – HomeWoven
Justin Frauendorfer, CPA, CFE, CVA, CAP® – Bland & Associates, P.C.
Ia Hagan, CFP®, CDFA®, CAP® – Baird Wealth Management, LLC
Cortney Hansen – Creighton University
Sue Kutschkau – University of Nebraska Foundation
Jerry O’Doherty, – Eide Bailly LLP
Zach Petersen – Dvorak Law Group, LLC
Michael Rickert – Guinan O’Siochain Law Group
Barbara Rizvi – FNBO
Brooke Kavan Smithberg, JD, AEP®, CAP® – Bridges Trust
Emily Sulzle, CAP® CFRE – University of Nebraska Foundation
Justin Vossen, CFP®, CAP® – Lutz
Katie Vogel – Truhlsen & Vogel Estate Planning
Sarah Henneman Willson – Spectrum Financial Services

As Omaha continues to punch above its weight philanthropically, this growing network of CAP® professionals will play an essential role in shaping the future of charitable giving in our community.

The post Celebrating the 2025 Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP®) Graduates appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

Building a Habit of Giving That Grows Over Time

Molly Mullen — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 20:01:01 +0000

A Q&A with Karen Pesek, Director of Finance at Pesek Law

Your clients rely on your guidance to make important financial decisions. When it comes to charitable giving, we can partner with you to simplify their giving and amplify their impact. But don’t just take our word for it. Hear from professionals in the field like Karen Pesek, Director of Finance at Pesek Law and co-leader of the firm’s community service initiatives.

With a strong focus on helping families align charitable giving with financial planning, Karen believes generosity is less about the size of a gift and more about intention, habit, and long-term impact. In this Q&A, she shares why she values the Omaha Community Foundation as a trusted partner that makes giving accessible, flexible, and meaningful for donors at every stage.

Are there any common misconceptions clients have about entering into the world of philanthropy?

Yes. For example, many people think you need a large sum of money to get started with philanthropy. The truth is, even small gifts can have a meaningful impact, especially when paired with matching agreements that multiply the effect of donations. Giving is less about the size of the check and more about the habit of generosity and the intention behind it.

What are the questions come up about philanthropy?

A common question is how philanthropy can help lower taxes while also creating a positive impact in the causes people care about. Donors often want to understand how they can align their charitable giving with both their financial planning and their values, so they’re making a difference in the most effective way possible.

How can advisors prompt clients to think about legacy planning?

Advisors should begin these conversations early, especially with individuals who have the potential to become significant donors over time. It’s not always easy to identify who will step fully into philanthropy, but one thing is clear: people who make a habit of giving when they don’t have much will give even more when they have greater resources. Education and accessibility are key; by offering information and options early, advisors can help clients build a tradition of giving that includes their children and future generations.

What makes OCF a good partner to facilitate giving goals?

The Omaha Community Foundation has a strong reputation for stability, trust, and long-term stewardship. Omaha’s philanthropic community is diverse and vibrant, and OCF serves as a central, reliable hub where people can come together to do good. Their staff is accessible and knowledgeable, which inspires confidence. Another advantage is flexibility: donations can be made in cash or stock, making it easier for donors who want to give in specific ways.

How does opening an account with OCF simplify giving?

Having a fund at OCF creates simplicity and trust. For example, during capital campaigns, being able to receive large donations immediately is invaluable. Donors know their money is safe, designated for philanthropic purposes, and managed by a trusted partner. That sense of security and accountability builds an additional layer of confidence that the funds will be used as intended.

Is there anything else you would like to say about the philanthropic spirit of Omaha?

Omaha is a small big town, and its philanthropic spirit reflects that. There’s a unique closeness here—people are deeply connected and invested in making the city thrive. OCF is a powerful tool that brings like-minded people together, allowing their combined efforts to build the community we are so proud of today.

Ready to Connect?

Download our advisor toolkit and access ready-to-share philanthropic resources.

Schedule a personal session with our Donor Services Team: ask for Joey Felici, Donor Services Senior Advisor 402-614-8530 or joey@omahafoundation.org

Explore CAP® training to elevate your philanthropic advising through our Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® program.

We look forward to partnering with you to serve your clients more effectively—and together, to grow a culture of meaningful giving in our community.

The post Building a Habit of Giving That Grows Over Time appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

How the OBBBA Could Impact Year-End Charitable Giving

Omaha Community Foundation — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 17:59:50 +0000

Deyna Rouse, Assistant Professor of Practice, Creighton’s Heider College of Business

Vanessa Denney, Vice President of Donor & Philanthropic Services, Omaha Community Foundation

With the passage of Public Law 119-21, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), several major changes to the tax treatment of charitable contributions take effect in 2026. That makes 2025 the perfect year to review your giving strategy and maximize the after-tax impact of your generosity. Here are two powerful tools to consider before year-end.

Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from IRAs

If you’re age 70½ or older and hold an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), you can make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) of up to $108,000 in 2025 directly to a qualified charity. Doing so keeps that amount out of your taxable income, which can lower your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) and help preserve other tax benefits that phase out at higher income levels.

Although QCDs don’t generate an additional charitable deduction, the ability to exclude the distribution from AGI often provides a greater overall tax advantage—especially when the funds aren’t needed for living expenses.

OCF offers multiple vehicles for QCDs including:

Designated Funds: allows donors to support specific nonprofits or causes over time, with the Foundation managing annual grants to ensure the original intent of the gift is achieved.

Field of Interest Fund: allows donors to target their gifts to address a specific need in the community (geriatric care, the arts, food insecurity, etc.) and our grant committee finds projects and groups that are making an impact in that area.

The “Bunching” Strategy for Charitable Gifts

The current standard deduction for 2025, the amount available to reduce taxable income without any specific spending, is $31,500 for married couples filing jointly and $15,750 for single filers. This means many taxpayers will no longer itemize deductions, potentially reducing the tax benefit of annual charitable donations.

If your typical yearly giving brings you close to the standard deduction threshold, consider “bunching” donations—combining two years of charitable contributions into one tax year. By doubling up gifts in 2025, you may exceed the standard deduction and itemize, maximizing your deduction in one year and taking the larger standard deduction the next.

This approach is particularly effective for those without mortgage interest deductions, who are less likely to itemize. With another 2% increase to the standard deduction expected in 2026, timing your giving at the end of 2025 could make your dollars go further.

A fund with OCF gives you time to distribute your donations on your own timeline. You can take the bunching deduction for 2025 and then decide over time which organizations to grant your funds to. Our Donor Advisors can strategize with you to support areas of greatest needs in the community or make gifts to organizations that are already important to you.

OCF Makes Charitable Giving Simple, Even When Laws Change

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is reshaping how individuals, families, and financial advisors think about charitable giving. Planning now, before the 2026 changes take effect, can help you maximize tax efficiency while living your values through charitable giving.

We at OCF can collaborate closely with you and your financial advisor, attorney, or CPA to design giving strategies that meet both your personal and financial objectives. With numerous giving vehicles, our expertise ensures that every charitable dollar works harder for you and for our community.

The post How the OBBBA Could Impact Year-End Charitable Giving appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

Starting the Conversation: Philanthropy Across Generations

Molly Mullen — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 15:56:59 +0000

For many Omaha families, giving back is part of their identity, something learned from previous generations and passed on to the next. Teaching and practicing philanthropy as a family can solidify family values and develop community connections across generations.

As families prepare to spend time together in the coming weeks, parents and grandparents have a unique opportunity to bring philanthropy into the conversation. Discussing giving back, community impact, and personal values can help families align values, build traditions, and start a legacy.

For advisors and CPAs, encouraging these conversations is both timely and effective. Stacie Neussendorfer, Senior Lead Advisor at Foster Group, notes, “Several recent studies have shown that clients want their advisors to discuss charitable giving with them, so the first step is to have that conversation.”

These conversations often start with simple actions. Families can start with:

Discussing the causes they care about

Visiting a local nonprofit

Volunteer together to gain a firsthand understanding of community needs

Neussendorfer adds, “I love the idea of teaching the next generation to give, and one of the easiest ways is by using a fund at the Omaha Community Foundation. We have grandparents who are using these to teach their grandchildren by bringing them together and allocating each grandchild a certain amount to give to a charity of their choice each year.”

Experiences like these bring families closer while nurturing the next generation’s understanding of philanthropy. “The grandchildren get to spend time with their grandparents and cousins, learning about different charitable organizations while establishing a pattern of giving,” Neussendorfer says. “While there may be many animal-related recipients among the younger grandchildren, as they grow and develop different interests, it is fun to see the various types of charities each child chooses to support.”

Some families are taking these lessons further by giving through their OCF funds to local nonprofits during the holidays rather than exchanging traditional gifts. Whether through shared experiences or new giving structures, the key is intentional communication. As Neussendorfer summarizes, “This is a great way to get started on including children or the next generation, but what it really boils down to is talking with your family members about helping others and what causes are important to them.”

OCF provides flexible, local tools that make multigenerational giving easy to structure and manage:

Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) allow families to make giving decisions together and name children or grandchildren as successor advisors.

Field of Interest Funds connect giving to specific issue areas, helping younger generations see the collective impact of pooled philanthropy.

Generation-Skipping Trusts can preserve wealth and charitable intent across generations while providing potential tax advantages.

Whether families want to introduce children or grandchildren to philanthropy, create a long-term structure for family giving, or simplify their charitable plans, OCF offers expert support and local insight.

To learn more about how we can help make giving part of your or your clients’ family legacy, contact the Omaha Community Foundation’s Donor Services team at giving@omahafoundatoin.org or visit omahafoundation.org

The post Starting the Conversation: Philanthropy Across Generations appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

Make the Most of Your Year-End Giving

Molly Mullen — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 15:55:46 +0000

As the year draws to a close, the Omaha Community Foundation (OCF) is here to help you maximize your charitable impact while meeting important tax and giving deadlines. Whether you plan to make a gift to your Donor Advised Fund (DAF), contribute appreciated stock, or establish a new charitable fund, thoughtful preparation now ensures your giving goals are met before December 31.

Why Consider Non-Cash Assets

Donating appreciated assets instead of cash can be a powerful giving strategy, especially before year-end. When you contribute non-cash assets directly to OCF, you may eliminate capital gains taxes and receive a charitable deduction for the fair market value of the gift. This helps you give more while supporting the causes you care about most.

Common non-cash assets include:

Publicly traded securities such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds

Privately held business interests, including LLCs and limited partnerships

Real estate, farmland, or other property

Life insurance policies

Retirement plan assets

By donating these assets directly, rather than selling them first, you can make a greater philanthropic impact and potentially increase your overall tax efficiency.

2025 Year-End Giving Deadlines

To ensure your gifts are processed by December 31, please note the following important deadlines:

Complex assets like real estate, closely held business interests or stock, and legacy gifts: Initiate by December 9

Wire and ACH transfers: Must be received into OCF bank accounts by December 31

Check contributions: Must be postmarked by December 31

Grant recommendations from your fund: Submit by December 29 to allow time for year-end processing

Online gifts: Can be made through your donor portal or at omahafoundation.org until 11:59 p.m. on December 31

If you plan to give complex assets such as stock, real estate, or business interests, it is best to start the process early so all paperwork and valuations can be completed before year-end.

Partnering for Impact

At OCF, we work closely with donors and their professional advisors to streamline complex giving, align philanthropic goals, and ensure charitable intent is fulfilled. Our team can handle the administrative details of processing non-cash gifts and provide charitable receipts for your records, making it simple to give with confidence and purpose.

Get Started Today

The final weeks of the year offer an opportunity to reflect on your values and invest in the future of our community. Whether you are an advisor guiding clients or a donor shaping your own legacy, OCF is here to help.

Contact Kathy Schubauer, Director of Donor Services, at 402-614-9510 or kathy@omahafoundation.org to discuss your year-end strategy, explore options for giving non-cash assets, or open a new fund that supports the causes most meaningful to you.

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